Youngstown State University Students Shine: Securing 2nd Place at Ohio SHRM HR Games!

Six students from Youngstown State University (YSU) recently put their skills to the test at the 2025 Ohio HR Games, held at Baldwin Wallace University on October 11. They came away with a strong second-place finish and were also honored with the peer-chosen “Congeniality Award.”

The Ohio HR Games is an exciting competition resembling Jeopardy, where undergraduate teams showcase their knowledge of human resource management and business concepts. Students tackle questions focused on important HR areas like employee relations and talent acquisition. This year, teams battled through six challenging rounds over five hours.

The YSU team stood out for their expertise and teamwork, earning respect from both peers and organizers. Their achievement of the Congeniality Award illustrated their friendly spirit and professionalism.

Kimberly Pleva, the YSU SHRM Faculty Advisor, highlighted their dedication: “These students demonstrated hard work and teamwork, representing YSU with exceptional skill.”

The team consisted of MiaCarmela Barber, Liliana Donatelli, Haya Farhan, Manny Gingras, Madelynn Hanna, and Casey Jenkins. Their participation in the HR Games not only tested their knowledge but also facilitated valuable connections with HR professionals across Ohio. The event was organized by Baldwin Wallace University in collaboration with the Cleveland SHRM chapter.

Competitions like this are crucial for students as they bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. Engaging with industry experts and peers enhances their learning experience significantly. According to a recent survey by the Society for Human Resource Management, 83% of HR students believe that such competitions improve their job readiness.

As the job market evolves, experiences like the HR Games prepare students for future challenges in the workforce. By honing their skills and gaining practical insights, they are better equipped to navigate the complex world of human resources.

For more insights into the importance of experiential learning in HR education, check out the Society for Human Resource Management’s latest research.

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