Culture Connections Event Brings Students and Service Leaders Together

The Culture Connections event, held on February 19th, 2026, at the Whitehall Community Park YMCA, brought together students, service professionals, and community partners for a powerful day of learning, networking, and inspiration. The event highlighted meaningful conversations about service-based careers while centering representation, leadership, and community impact.

Keynote Speaker & Student Leadership

The program opened with an inspiring keynote address from LaShanna Potts, 1st Assistant Chief of Police for the City of Columbus, who shared her journey, leadership philosophy, and insights on the importance of service in uniform. Her message encouraged students to pursue opportunities with confidence and purpose.

Guiding the flow of the event was Student MC Comfort Shado of Cornerstone Academy, whose professionalism and energy helped set the tone for an engaging and student-centered experience.

Engaging Panel Discussion

Attendees gained valuable insight from a distinguished panel of service leaders, including SSG Shanelle Bounds, Sergeant Dionna Ballantine, Chief of Police Gary D. Lewis, Jr., Elvin Pinckney, SSGT Epifañio Torres, and Lucretia Williams.

Each panelist shared perspective on career pathways, challenges, and the impact of serving the community in their respective fields. From military service members to local emergency service providers, and successful entrepreneurs, a wide range of career opportunities were represented on our event stage. Students asked thoughtful questions and held meaningful conversations with the panelists throughout the discussion.

Participating Schools

Students from a few of our partnering schools attended and engaged deeply with each guest speaker and vendor which included Horizon Science Academy High School, Cornerstone Academy, West High School.

Their curiosity and participation helped make the event both lively and interactive.

Interactive Activities

As part of the day’s programming, students participated in an engaging “Design the Leader” interactive table activity designed to prime them for the upcoming panel discussion. Working in groups of eight, students collaboratively identified character traits they believe define an effective leader in uniform, essential skills necessary for success in service professions, and a leadership mindset that supports strong decision‑making. This activity encouraged critical thinking, teamwork, and open dialogue—setting the stage for deeper reflection during the panel conversation and helping students articulate the qualities they value in those who serve their communities.

In addition to the panel and vendor fair, students participated in a dynamic series of breakout sessions, each designed to introduce them to real‑world career pathways across various service sectors. Sessions were structured with focused content followed by students exploring multiple industries throughout the event. The themed rooms included: Law Enforcement & Military, where students gained insight into public safety and armed service roles, Medical & Fire/EMS, highlighting emergency response and healthcare careers, Transportation & Security, featuring essential behind‑the‑scenes operations that keep communities moving, Banking & Financial Mobility, which emphasized financial literacy and career growth in the banking sector. This breakout format encouraged students to ask questions, engage with professionals, and broaden their understanding of the many ways they can serve their communities.

Community Vendors & Partners

A diverse group of vendors provided hands-on insight into their organizations and the career opportunities available in public service and community support roles. Participating vendors included USPS, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, COTA Bus Service, Heartland Bank, Columbus Police Department, Air Force Reserves, Army Reserves, Columbus Firefighters & EMT personnel.

Their presence offered students direct access to professionals in uniformed and community-facing careers, fostering connections that may shape future pathways.

Venue Support & Hospitality

The event was hosted at the Whitehall Community Park YMCA, whose team provided exceptional support. Special thanks to Executive Director Carrie Anders, Program, Director Asia Glenn, the entire YMCA staff.

Their efforts ensured a welcoming and organized environment for all attendees.

Entertainment & Lunch

Music for the day was provided by DJ IQ, creating an energetic atmosphere for networking and exploration. Lunch was generously provided by Lead the Way, featuring Domino’s Pizza for all guests.

A Day of Impact

Culture Connections successfully created space for collaboration, reflection, and empowerment. Students engaged confidently with professionals, learned about service careers, and heard firsthand the value of leadership and representation in uniform.

The event’s success reflects the power of partnership—and a shared commitment to guiding the next generation of community leaders.