YSU launches “Y and Kind” initiative

Campus community invited to complete 250 acts of kindness in 2026

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.”

Spearheaded by the YSU Community Engagement Council, the initiative aligns the university with the national United States of Kindness campaign, part of the broader America 250 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 a total of 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. We are thankful to everyone who helped make this experience so meaningful and for continuing to champion autism awareness and acceptance.”

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. These shared stories will help illustrate the collective impact of kindness across campus and beyond.

“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 by:

• Completing and documenting acts of kindness throughout the year
• Sharing efforts on social media using #YandKind
• Submitting acts through the university’s online kindness collector

To submit an act of kindness, visit YSU Acts of Kindness.

Together, these efforts will help YSU reach its goal of 250 acts of kindness and contribute to a nationwide movement rooted in connection and care.