YSU earns 2026 Blackboard Catalyst Award for adoption and engagement

Youngstown State University has been named a 2026 Blackboard Catalyst Award winner in the Blackboard Adoption and Engagement category, recognizing the university’s efforts to build a culture of engagement and continuous improvement around its learning management system. 

The Blackboard Adoption & Engagement Award recognizes institutions that have led institution-wide adoption through clear strategy, proactive support, and a commitment to continuous improvement. 

YSU was recognized for the work of Youngstown State Online’s Instructional Design and Development Center in helping faculty move beyond basic use of Blackboard Ultra and embrace the platform as a tool for enhancing teaching, learning and student success. 

Following YSU’s transition to Blackboard Ultra, the IDDC developed a comprehensive support strategy that included faculty training, one-on-one consultations, instructional resources, office hours and ongoing communication. During 2025, the team conducted nearly 200 individual faculty consultations and offered 52 Blackboard-focused trainings and webinars attended by more than 330 participants. 

The center also developed course templates, toolkits and resources designed to improve course quality, consistency and student engagement across online offerings. Faculty were encouraged to adopt innovative Blackboard tools, including AI Design Assistant and AI Conversations, helping expand the use of technology that supports course design, interaction and student learning. 

Additional support efforts included a monthly Blackboard newsletter, instructional videos, office hours and the establishment of a Blackboard Advisory Committee to gather feedback and guide future improvements. These initiatives helped create a sustainable model for Blackboard engagement while supporting YSU’s continued growth in online education.

 Founded in 2005, the annual Blackboard Catalyst Awards recognize and celebrate innovation, leadership, and excellence across Blackboard's global community of practice. Each year, winners are selected by a cross-functional team of Blackboard experts and reflect the creativity, dedication, and vision driving the future of education worldwide. 

To learn more about the Catalyst Awards and see the full list of 2026 winners, visit the Blackboard Catalyst Award website.