YOUNGSTOWN — Joe and Pam Kerola, longstanding supporters of Youngstown State University, have made a pledge of $750,000 to the Kilcawley: Centered on the Future campaign.

This significant contribution will support the renovation and modernization of Kilcawley Center, the heart of student life at YSU. As part of their commitment, the second-floor lounge of Kilcawley Center will be named the Kerola Family Cove, providing students with a welcoming and collaborative space for years to come.

“We are thrilled to make this gift to a place that has been so important to our community and to Youngstown State University,” said Joe Kerola, a member of the YSU Board of Trustees. “Kilcawley Center is more than just a building; it is a place where students come together, learn, and build connections that last a lifetime. We hope this contribution will help make Kilcawley an even more dynamic space for current and future generations of students.”

The Kerolas have long been advocates for education and have demonstrated their commitment to YSU through multiple initiatives. In addition to their gift for Kilcawley Center, they hold two scholarships, the John Kerola athletic scholarship in honor of Joe’s father and the Kerola Family Scholarship in Business which supports business students at the university. Recently, they also donated $250,000 to support the Beeghly Center seating project, further demonstrating their deep commitment to enhancing the student experience at YSU.

Scott Schulick, chair of the Kilcawley: Centered on the Future campaign, praised the Kerolas’ generosity and their lasting impact on the YSU community. “Joe and Pam Kerola’s incredible support will leave a lasting legacy at YSU,” Schulick said. “Their pledge to the Kilcawley renovation will provide students with a modern, vibrant space where they can connect, collaborate, and thrive. We are honored by their continued leadership and investment in the future of Youngstown State University.”

YSU President Bill Johnson also expressed his gratitude to the Kerolas for their ongoing support.

“The Kerola family’s generosity has always been rooted in a deep passion for the success of our students,” said President Johnson. “Their gift will help transform Kilcawley Center into a dynamic space that fosters innovation, collaboration, and community. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to shaping the future of YSU and its students.”

The Kilcawley Center renovation is one of the university’s most significant initiatives, designed to modernize and expand student spaces across the building. The project will create more flexible, collaborative areas that reflect the evolving needs of today’s students. With the Kerola Family Cove as a central feature, the second floor will become an even more inviting place for students to gather and engage with one another.

“Kilcawley Center has always been a central part of the YSU experience, and with the renovation, it will become an even more vibrant hub for student life,” said Kerola. “We’re proud to play a role in helping to make that vision a reality.”

The Kilcawley: Centered on the Future campaign continues to gain momentum, with the Kerolas’ pledge marking another major milestone in its fundraising efforts. The transformation of Kilcawley Center will ensure that the building remains a vital, dynamic space for generations of YSU students.