YSU trustees extend President Tressel’s contract

Provost Brien Smith’s contract also continued

Contract extensions for Youngstown State University’s top two executives – President Jim Tressel and Provost Brien Smith – were unanimously approved today by the YSU Board of Trustees.

“We are happy to have the leaders of our executive team securely in place to continue their great work in service of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and the greater Mahoning and Shenango valley communities,” Board Chair Anita Hackstedde said.

Tressel was named YSU’s ninth president in 2014, agreeing to a three-year contract and then one-year extensions through June 2021. The latest extension says that, starting July 1, 2021, Tressel’s contract as president will continue until terminated by either party with 180 days prior written notice.

“We have accomplished much in seven years, but there’s more work to be done,” Tressel said. “We look forward to continue moving the university ahead on various fronts.”

Smith was named YSU provost and vice president for Academic Affairs in 2019, becoming the university’s second-highest ranking officer and overseeing all academic operations. He came to YSU in 2019 from Indiana State University, where he was dean of the Scott College of Business for seven years. His contract at YSU was extended to 2025.

Under Tressel’s leadership, YSU enrollment increased for the first time in five years, the academic quality of freshmen classes has continued upward, and graduation rates are also up. In addition, the university has set new fund-raising records, held down tuition increases, expanded scholarship opportunities and increased both university and private housing options across campus. He has worked diligently with local, state and federal leaders to boost economic development in and around the region, including major improvement projects along main corridors through campus and workforce development partnerships that include the new Excellence Training Center now under construction on the south end of campus. Tressel and his wife, Ellen, have been involved in extensive fund raising and philanthropy throughout the region, including personally making a $1 million gift to create the Jim and Ellen Tressel Student Work Opportunity Endowment Fund at YSU.