WCBA Events

Upcoming WCBA Events / Spring 2026

Bankers & Bagels Networking Event | Hosted by Center for Career Management & Northeast Ohio Risk Management Association
Tuesday, March 24, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Weir Atrium, Williamson Hall

Connect with professionals from leading banking institutions across Youngstown, Akron, and Cleveland in a relaxed, open-house setting. Learn about different career paths in banking, ask questions, and explore internship and full-time opportunities while building meaningful connections. Open to all majors, this informal event offers a welcoming space to gain insight into the industry—while enjoying coffee, bagels, and pastries. 

Contact cloconnell@ysu.edu for more questions.

SHRM Joint Meeting | YSU Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 from 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Williamson Hall

The YSU Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) invites students from all majors to a joint networking meeting held in partnership with the Western Reserve Professional SHRM Chapter. This event features a keynote presentation by John Bernatovicz, author of HR Like a Boss, focused on empowering leaders and making a positive impact in the workplace. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with experienced HR professionals, gain firsthand career insights, and bridge the gap between classroom learning and the professional world. This award-winning student chapter event highlights the value of networking and professional development in preparing for a successful career in any industry.

"Your Money, Your Future" Retirement Workshop | Sponsored by the Paul J. Thomas Endowment and The Economics Club
Friday March 27, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Williamson College, Room 3423

This FREE workshop and breakfast is open to all students interested in learning how to set themselves up for a financially successful retirement. The event is limited to 60 seats. Breakfast is provided. Please bring note-taking material and questions. 

This workshop helps build a long-run retirement saving plan and a simple system that can run for decades. This workshop is educational and does not provide individualized financial advice. Registration is required. For more information, contact tpovaska@ysu.edu.

RSVP to attend HERE

"Reigniting Youngstown: Why Some Cities Thrive and Others Don't" | Paul J. Thomas Public Lecture in Economics
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.
Weir Atrium & Auditorium, Williamson Hall

Dr. Gary Wagner from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette will present "Reigniting Youngstown: Why Some Cities Thrive and Others Don’t," exploring how some former industrial cities successfully reinvent themselves while others struggle to regain economic momentum. Drawing on his research and experience, Dr. Wagner will share insights on what drives long-term growth and why some development strategies fall short. A 1995 YSU graduate in Economics and Political Science, Dr. Wagner offers a meaningful perspective for the Youngstown and Mahoning Valley community. 

The evening begins with light hors d’oeuvres in the WCBA Weir Atrium at 5:00 p.m., followed by the lecture and Q&A in the auditorium at 6:00 p.m. Free parking is available in the M30 Wick Deck. For more information, contact tpovaska@ysu.edu.

WCBA Dare to Care Day
Friday, April 10, 2026
Williamson Hall & Mahoning Valley Nonprofits

WCBA Dare to Care Day connects students, faculty, and staff with local nonprofit organizations for a morning of hands-on community service. After a kick-off breakfast in Williamson Hall, volunteers assist partners like United Way and Habitat for Humanity with projects ranging from site restoration to resource distribution. This event offers participants a chance to develop leadership skills and gain firsthand insight into the nonprofit sector while making a tangible impact on the Mahoning Valley. 

Registration by 4/3/26. Contact Laura Dewberry at LJDewberry@ysu.edu. 

Accounting Career Day
Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Weir Atrium, Williamson Hall

Accounting Career Day offers high school students a chance to explore the CPA profession and discover how an accounting degree paves the way for a successful future. Participants will hear directly from local CPAs, learn to navigate professional career paths, and explore the diverse opportunities available in the industry. We encourage accounting, economics, and entrepreneurship teachers to bring their entire class for a day of career immersion; however, individual students may also RSVP independently and will receive a school excuse for the day. Lunch is included for all attendees.

Registration: Contact Hannah Thomas at hthomas@ohiocpa.com or (330) 307-5275.

Spring 2026 Graduation Lunch 
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Weir Atrium, Williamson Hall

Celebrate Spring 2026 graduates at a special luncheon hosted by WCBA. Graduates are invited to attend with family and friends to recognize this milestone and enjoy time together as a community.

Registration is required for all attendees. Please see email invitation to sign up. 

Travel Abroad Experiences
May 4 - May 14, 2026 
Prague, Dresden, Berlin

Our business students are headed to Central Europe for a memorable study abroad trip led by WCBA faculty. Follow their journey on our social media! 

WCBA Facebook 

WCBA Instagram 

WCBA LinkedIn

Penguin Preview Day
Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Weir Atrium, Williamson Hall

Discover what it’s like to study business at Youngstown State University during Penguin Preview Day. Explore the Williamson College of Business Administration by connecting with faculty, staff, and current students while learning more about majors, career paths, and hands-on opportunities. Attend business-focused sessions, gain insight into internships, student organizations, and career development resources, and see how WCBA prepares students for success across a variety of industries. 

Prospective students will also have the opportunity to tour campus, explore student life, and learn more about admissions and financial aid—all while experiencing the supportive community that defines WCBA.