YSU Recognizes Bielecki

JFCS Executive Director Receives YSU Alumni Award

Ken Bielecki, executive director of Jewish Family & Community Services, received the 2022 YSU Bitonte College of Health and Human Services Alumni Award for Social Work on Oct. 7. Bielecki earned his bachelor’s degree in social work in 2000 and credited his time at YSU as the reason he got into social work.

“I switched majors several times and contemplated leaving YSU before I found social work. I knew that I wanted to make an impact on my community and help people. I bounced around and tried a few different career paths, and for a time, I even thought about being a veterinarian. All that to say, I’m grateful for all the opportunities YSU gave me that led me to social work,” Bielecki said.

Bielecki earned his Master of Science of Social Administration in 2005 from Case Western Reserve University. Before joining JFCS in 2017, he worked in various social work roles and environments. He attributes his success as an executive director to two of his mentors, Lisa Ruman and John Danes.

“Lisa, from Cadence Care Network, hired me after graduating from YSU and she greatly assisted my clinical social work skills. She inspired me to seek higher education at Case Western, which was her alma mater. John, from Trumbull County Board of Developmental Disabilities, promoted me into various management roles and trusted in me as a director there. He also modeled to me the importance of building a solid rapport with clients served. They both tremendously shaped who I am today,” Bielecki said.

As for Bielecki, this award was a pleasant surprise.

“Receiving this award validates my decision to go into social work and my desire to work in the community I grew up in. In addition, it vindicates all of my hard work and time in school,” Bielecki said.

The award presentation was especially meaningful because he could share it with his son.

“My son was there to watch me receive the award, which made it a very special moment to share,” Bielecki said.

Ken Bielecki, pictured with his son Alex, was honored by his alma mater.