The Youngstown State University Community Engagement Symposium served as the launchpad for a new campuswide initiative aimed at spreading compassion and connection: “Y and Kind.”

Led by the YSU Office of Community Engagement, the initiative aligns the university with the national United States of Kindness campaign, part of the broader America250 effort to inspire acts of service and connection across the country. As part of this movement, the YSU community is working toward a collective goal of completing 250 acts of kindness in 2026.

During the symposium, participants engaged in a hands-on community activity in partnership with the Rich Center for Autism. Attendees wrote 40 encouraging cards to students, demonstrating how small, intentional gestures can foster belonging and care within the community. The activity highlighted how simple, thoughtful, everyday acts can have a meaningful impact.

“We are incredibly appreciative of the time and care shown by the YSU community in creating these messages for our students. At the Rich Center for Autism, we see every day how meaningful connection supports growth and confidence,” said Mike Latessa, executive director.

“This initiative not only highlights the importance of kindness, but also reinforces the role Youngstown State University plays in building a more engaged and compassionate community,” Latessa said. “These acts of kindness send a powerful message to our students — that they belong, they are valued and they are supported.”

To extend the initiative beyond the event, YSU has created a digital “kindness collector” where students, faculty, staff and community members can submit and track completed acts.

“Y and Kind reflects the spirit of community engagement at YSU,” said Amy Cossentino, associate provost and dean. “It’s about fostering a culture of care and treating everyone with kindness and respect.”

Members of the campus and broader community are encouraged to support the initiative. To submit an act of kindness, visit YSU Acts of Kindness on the YSU

website.