Innovation, Connection, and Community in the Heart of York
This August, the Graham Collaborative Innovation Fellows Program at York College of Pennsylvania launched its academic year with a dynamic four-day retreat in downtown York. Leveraging the new and long-standing relationships between the College and local businesses and organizations, Fellows experienced the city as an extension of the classroom, immersing themselves in opportunities for personal growth, professional development, and leadership. Held at iconic locations such as the Yorktowne Hotel, Central Market, and the Center for Community Engagement (CCE), the retreat reflected the program’s mission to blend academic rigor with real-world experience.
“It also gave us, as students, time to explore a part of York that is very close to our school and holds so many opportunities for us,” shared one of the Graham Fellows.
Each day of the retreat provided Fellows with immersive experiences that connected them more deeply to both the city and the Graham Fellows Program itself. Activities like Boomer Bingo sent students on a creative scavenger hunt through downtown York, introducing them to local arts, culture, and businesses while honing their teamwork and communication skills. Stops included House of Yoga, Sunrise Soap Company, Gather 256, The Appell Center, In between Pages, York Revolution's Baseball Stadium, United Way, and York County History Center. Students also participated in cooking classes with local entrepreneurs, Liz Morales from Cooking Up Connections, and Nasim Ali from Nasim & Co, a networking workshop at Martin Library, profStudents also participated in cooking classes with local entrepreneurs, Liz Morales from Cooking Up Connections, and Nasim Ali from Nasim & Co., a networking workshop at Martin Library, and professional style workshops at the College Closet.essional style workshops at the College Closet. A culminating breakfast with local business and community leaders helped students not only build relationships, but also confidence in their ability to connect with potential employers and mentors.
“From the professional development activities, I learned to not be afraid and to just put myself out there” one Fellow explained.
More than just a welcome event, the retreat served as a launchpad for a year of purpose, empowering students to see themselves as changemakers within both the College and the York community. Thanks to the close partnership between the Graham Fellows Program, downtown York, and YCP, students left the retreat feeling more prepared, more connected, and more inspired.
As one Fellow summed it up: “This experience was overall an amazing time and taught me so many new things. I also feel more prepared going into this semester with a better understanding of this program and with new skills in my mind.”
With these lessons and connections in hand, the Fellows are ready to make their mark—on campus, in York, and beyond.
