Celebrating Our 2024 Business Partners of the Year!
Award recipients took a moment to capture a group photo at our Education After Hours event, supported by the Marietta Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Memorial Health System.
At BB2C, we believe in the power of collaboration to inspire, educate, and empower students. Each year, we recognize outstanding business partners who have gone above and beyond to support career exploration and community and career connected learning. We had the opportunity to announce and recognize our 2024 Business Partners of the Year at our annual Education After Hours event. Thank you to all of our business partners, and congratulations to our award recipients!
Career Mentor of the Year: Sherry McKenzie
Since 2017, Sherry has dedicated over 300 hours to mentoring students. She goes the extra mile, accommodating schedules, meeting after school and even on weekends. Her students consistently praise her guidance and commitment.
Internship Partner of the Year: Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers Coalition (AOMC)
AOMC has significantly impacted the high school internship landscape by providing funding, hosting interns, and advocating for career opportunities within the manufacturing sector. Their dedication has helped students gain hands-on experience and valuable mentorship.
Family Career Fest Partner: Ohio Natural Energy Institute
Shawn Toy and her team have been a driving force in career exploration! They have sponsored both our 2024 and our upcoming 2025 Community and Career Connected Learning Summits, presenting at numerous events and schools, and organizing engaging field trips. Their continued support has created countless opportunities for students and educators.
Discover Days Partner: Smitty’s Pizza
Smitty’s Pizza, led by Josh Harris, has provided hundreds of lunches for students, educators, and professionals during both our 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 Discover Day Series events. Their generosity helps us foster career discussions and hands-on learning experiences across multiple industries through these free events.
Career Speaker of the Year: Kaitlin Streator
Kaitlin’s enthusiasm and ability to connect with students is unmatched. She has engaged with every school, presented at major events, and authored inspiring books, making her an invaluable asset to our Career Speaker Series.
Real World Problem Scenario (RWPS) Partner: Village Cakery
Cindy Mallahan opened her bakery’s doors to students, providing a hands-on marketing challenge that encouraged creative problem-solving. Her support and enthusiasm made a lasting impact on those who had the chance to work with her to solve a real-world business problem in their classroom.
Small Business Incubator Partner: Reasonings & Reflections Counseling
Suzy has come full circle, from being an internship coordinator at BB2C to starting her own business and mentoring students. Her journey exemplifies the success and impact of our small business entrepreneurs.
Makerspace Partner: Chase Bank
Chase Bank’s sponsorship of the Laser Space ensures that our Makerspace remains a hub of innovation, providing access to cutting-edge tools and technology for the community. They have sponsored our Laser Cutting Space for a number of years, and we are grateful for their ongoing support.
Overall Partner of the Year: PSE
Sean Kufel and the PSE team have been unwavering in their support, participating in numerous events, sponsoring initiatives, and ensuring no student misses out on career exploration opportunities. Their leadership exemplifies the power of business-education partnerships.
Thank you to all of our incredible partners for making a difference in the lives of students and shaping the future of our community!