Gov. names local CEO to YSU BoT

Gov. Mike DeWine has named Richard C. Fryda, president and CEO of Compco Industries in Columbiana, Ohio, to the Youngstown State University Board of Trustees.

Fryda will serve a term that starts May 1, 2023, and runs through April 30, 2032. He replaces Dr. John Jakubek, whose term has expired.

Beginning his career at Compco Industries in 1980, Fryda advanced to become chief operating officer in 2004 and took over his current role as president and CEO in 2007. Fryda is responsible for leading a team that increased annual sales from $12 million in 2004 to approximately $120 million in 2022.

Fryda is involved throughout the community, currently serving as a board member for Potential Development School for Autism, Counseling Center of Columbiana County and Youngstown State University’s Penguin Club, where he is currently serving as president.

In the past, he has served as a board member with Salvation Army Mahoning County, United Way of Youngstown & Mahoning Valley, Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Boardman Community Baseball, Boys & Girls Club of Youngstown and SOD Center of Salem Ohio.

The appointment strengthens Fryda’s familial ties to YSU. Together, Fryda and his wife Lisa Robinson have nine children, seven of whom have attended or are currently attending YSU.