Meet ystark! YP: Kelsey M. Sullivan

Name	Kelsey M. Sullivan
Occupation/Title/Place of work	Associate Attorney - Winkhart & Minor, LLC
Age	26
Why are you interested in Stark County’s Young Professionals initiative?	As a current young professional in Stark County, I am always looking for opportunities to meet and grow with other young professionals within the area.
What would you share to encourage other people to join?	We are the up and coming workforce in Stark County. If you would like to participate in an organization that allows for personal growth, connecting with other YPs and development within the community yStark is for you!
Did you grow up in Stark? If so, where? If not, where did you move from and why?	I am a Stark County native born and raised.
Why do you stay in Stark County, from both a personal and professional point of view?	From a personal perspective, my husband and I both graduated from GlenOak High School and attended Stark County universities (Go Raiders!). Our families are here in Stark County and as such, we have chosen to start our life together here in Stark County. From a professional perspective, I have always worked in Stark County. I like being able to connect with other locals to help improve our community.
What do you like MOST about Stark County?	There is always something going on or something to do. Local businesses and organizations are awesome at hosting and sharing events. From trivia nights at Canton Brewing to the Pro Football HOF celebration/balloon fest to yoga on the pavilion at Gervasi Vineyard - there is something for everyone!
What would you change about Stark County if you could?	Nothing.
What do you see as valuable opportunities for YPs in Stark County when it comes to career opportunities, cultural access, leadership or community involvement opportunities?	Any program offered by yStark is highly recommended. I participated in the 2020 Spring Spotlight Program and even though our in-person sessions were cut short due to the pandemic, it was clear that our group had a special connection. Everyone was incredibly friendly, open, and had a strong desire to make Stark County the best it could be.
What would attract more YPs to Stark County?	I'm not sure what else could be done to attract YPs to Stark County because really it has everything that you could want in a community.
What do you do in the evenings or on the weekends for fun in Stark County or NE Ohio?	We have a young dog with a lot of energy, so most of our weekday nights are spent at the dog park at Schneider Park. We also love walking all of the Stark Parks trails.
Could you see yourself spending your lifetime in Stark County and if not, what would cause you to leave?	Absolutely. Stark County is the only home I've ever known.