YSU honors two former leaders with 2026 Heritage Awards

Youngstown State University has recognized two distinguished former employees whose careers helped shape generations of students and strengthened the institution’s impact across the region and beyond.

Betty Jo Licata, former dean of the Williamson College of Business Administration, and Ronald Shaklee, professor emeritus of geography and former director of the University of Scholars and Honors program, are the recipients of YSU’s 2026 Heritage Award, the university’s highest honor for retired faculty or staff.

The award recognizes former employees whose long-term devotion, leadership and contributions have become an enduring part of the university’s heritage and the community it serves. Licata and Shaklee were recognized following the June 18 YSU Board of Trustees meeting at a reception honoring their achievements.

“Service, leadership and a commitment to something greater than yourself are core values that define strong institutions,” said YSU President Bill Johnson. “Betty Jo Licata and Ronald Shaklee embodied those values throughout their careers at Youngstown State University. They invested in our students, strengthened our academic programs, built meaningful partnerships and helped position YSU and our students for long-term success. The thousands of students whose lives they influenced are a testament to their lasting impact. Their contributions have become part of YSU’s heritage, and it is a privilege to recognize them with this honor.”

Licata served as dean of the Williamson College of Business Administration from 1995 through 2021, guiding the college through a period of significant growth and achievement, including earning accreditation from AACSB International, one of the highest distinctions for business schools worldwide. When the college faced a leadership transition in 2024, Licata returned to serve as interim dean, providing experienced leadership and stability during a pivotal period. She remained in the role through June 2025, helping ensure continuity for students, faculty and staff while advancing the college’s mission.

She also led the vision and development of Williamson Hall, now one of the university’s signature academic facilities, and expanded experiential learning, career development and entrepreneurship opportunities for students through the creation of several centers and programs that continue to serve the college and the regional business community.

Beyond campus, Licata became one of the region’s most visible ambassadors for YSU, serving in leadership roles with numerous community organizations while representing the university nationally and internationally through her work with AACSB International and Beta Gamma Sigma. Her leadership helped position the college among the nation’s leading business programs while fostering partnerships that continue to benefit students, faculty and employers throughout the region.

Shaklee joined the YSU faculty in 1987 and spent nearly four decades inspiring students through teaching, mentorship and global learning experiences. A Vietnam veteran and geographer whose research focused extensively on the Bahamas and Caribbean region, he introduced more than 1,000 students to international travel and study through faculty-led programs on San Salvador Island in the Bahamas.

As director of the University Scholars and Honors Program from 2000 to 2015, Shaklee helped expand opportunities for high-achieving students and played a key role in increasing the number of prestigious national scholarships awarded to YSU students, including the university’s first Rhodes Scholar.

Known for his mentorship and encouragement, Shaklee’s influence extended far beyond the classroom. Former students frequently credit him with inspiring academic pursuits, international experiences and careers in public service, education and community leadership. Even after retirement, he continued supporting students through scholarship advising, study abroad initiatives and national fellowship programs.

A three-time recipient of YSU’s Distinguished Professorship for Service and recipient of the Distinguished Professorship for Teaching, Shaklee has remained deeply engaged with the university while continuing to promote international education and student success. His longstanding commitment to service also includes leadership roles with national academic organizations and scholarship programs, as well as educational and conservation initiatives in the Bahamas.

Established in 1981, the Heritage Award honors retired members of the university community whose contributions have significantly advanced YSU and enriched its legacy. The award recognizes individuals whose influence continues to be felt long after their years of service have concluded.

For Licata and Shaklee, that influence can be measured not only through programs built, facilities developed and accolades earned, but through the thousands of students, colleagues and community members whose lives were shaped by their dedication to YSU.