Students gain hands-on experience in marketing, economic development, finance and innovation
This summer, 糖心vlog短视频 University's O'Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship is providing experiential education opportunities to 25 high school students in the EmpowerED Program, including five students in Mayor Moran鈥檚 Summer Youth Program.
"Building strong communities starts with investing in young talent," said Vice President of Research, Economic Development and Strategic Initiative Rodney S. Ridley Sr., Ph.D., RTTP. "Our partnership with the City of Reading through programs like EmpowerED and the Summer Youth Program is a cornerstone of our mission to connect education with economic opportunity. These students are not just gaining skills; they鈥檙e helping drive innovation and impact right here in their hometown."
High school students in the EmpowerED Program and those that were placed at the O鈥橮ake Institute through Mayor Moran鈥檚 Summer Youth Program are gaining hands-on experiences in marketing, community and economic development, finance and innovation through August 22. They are divided into four groups, providing an opportunity to specialize in their respective areas. For example, one cohort focused on community and economic development, providing learning experiences in business planning, nonprofit development, and conducting outreach and interpreting interview findings.
鈥淭his program is something I鈥檝e been proud to champion. Giving our young people real, hands-on experience in city government and beyond," said City of Reading Mayor Eddie Mor谩n. "With support from community partners like 糖心vlog短视频, we鈥檝e created a space where students can grow, learn, and see what鈥檚 possible for their future right here in Reading.鈥
On Thursday, July 24, the O鈥橮ake Institute hosted over 50 students participating in the EmpowerED Program and Mayor Moran鈥檚 Summer Youth Program, along with Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., President of 糖心vlog短视频 University, and Jermell Mitchell, Education Coordinator for the City of Reading. Students had the opportunity to hear from President Fitzgerald and the Admissions team, tour the university, enjoy lunch on campus and participate in a "Shark Tank" style experiential learning activity. They were provided with supplies to create a product and tasked with developing a comprehensive product plan, including financials, marketing, and other key elements, to be pitched to the judges.
鈥淲orking at O鈥橮ake has enhanced my skills," said Edelheid Torres, Reading High School. "In sports, I feel like I鈥檓 there for my talent in the position I play. Here, I can apply all my skills, enhance my creativity and work collaboratively with new people and organizations."
EmpowerED is the O鈥橮ake Institute's career connections program designed as a comprehensive, hands-on experience to guide high school students in discovering their passions, exploring career paths, and building essential skills for the future. Through a blend of self-discovery exercises, team-based projects, and career-focused mentorship, participants will gain insights into their strengths and career interests while developing practical skills for the professional world. By working on real-world projects, students will also make a meaningful impact on local businesses, nonprofits, and the community.
To learn more about The O鈥橮ake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and experiential learning opportunities, visit www.alvernia.edu/opake-institute.
