Marion lecture to focus on expanding youth learning programs

Ohio State Marion will highlight efforts to expand youth programming during the next Buckeye Talks on Tap event.

Ohio State Marion Director of Youth and Community Learning Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy will present “Growing Futures: Youth and Community Learning at Ohio State Marion” at 5:30 p.m. July 14, according to a community announcement. The free event is open to the public, with doors opening at 5 p.m. at Bucci’s Italian Scratch Kitchen inside Passenger & Rail Co., 320 W. Center St.

The discussion will focus on how a coordinated, multi-stage approach — from early curiosity through career exploration — can strengthen education and workforce pathways for students in the Marion region. The presentation will raise the question of how communities can intentionally connect experiences to support long-term student success, according to the announcement.

Event invites community input on youth program growth

The program will begin with a 20-to-30 minute overview of youth initiatives offered at Ohio State Marion, followed by an interactive discussion where attendees can share perspectives and suggest ways to expand programming.

Organizers say the topic is particularly relevant locally because it examines talent development, access and retention within the Marion area, according to the announcement.

Buckeye Talks on Tap events are designed to bring campus experts and community members together in informal settings such as restaurants and cafes. The series is inspired by the international Science Café movement and aims to create space for open dialogue on issues affecting the region.

Attendees can also participate in a question-and-answer session and will be entered into a door prize drawing provided by Marcie DeWitt of Anchor and Away Travel. Guests may purchase food and drinks during the event.

Programs span STEM, leadership and career exploration

Ohio State Marion offers a range of youth-focused initiatives, including Culture and Leadership Summer Camps, Engineering Summer Programs and STEM Summer Camps. Additional opportunities include workshops at the YMCA Recreation and Resource Center and the Pride and Life Skills Mentoring program.

Other programs highlighted include the Harding High School VEX V5 Robotics Competition, the Ohio State Marion/MTC Middle and High School Mathematics Challenge, The STEM Coding Project and Future Engineers: Hands-on STEM Experiences.

Career-focused programming includes 6th Grade STEAM Career Day, Career Pathways Preview: 8th Grade Edition and 11th Grade NextStep Visit Days, along with Empowering Youth Visions.

More information about these programs is available at osumarion.osu.edu.

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