Alum gifts $1 million for student success and scholarship

Jocelyne Kollay Linsalata came back to her alma mater earlier this semester and left behind a seven-figure gift. A native of Youngstown and a two-time graduate of YSU, Linsalata announced at a news conference that she is donating $1 million to fund initiatives to enhance student success and also to continue a scholarship endowment that she established at the YSU Foundation in 2003. “We thank Jocelyne for this generous gift that will help YSU students achieve in their academic endeavors, graduate on time and advance to success in their careers,” YSU President Jim Tressel said. “Jocelyne’s commitment to and support for YSU is unmatched; we are fortunate to have her as a leader of the Penguin community.” Linsalata, who now lives in Cleveland, said Youngstown was a wonderful place to learn family values, hard work and commitment to others. “I credit my parents, Leo and Francine Kollay, and YSU for leading me to where I am today,” she said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to support the YSU Foundation and YSU with this gift.” Linsalata grew up on Youngstown’s West Side, graduated from Youngstown Chaney High School, and earned a bachelor’s degree in French and Education and a master’s degree in Business Administration from YSU. She currently is vice chair of the YSU Foundation. She is a member of the Williamson College of Business Administration Visiting Committee and received WCBA’s Outstanding Alumni Service Award.