Shawnee State University Kricker Innovation Hub

05/22/2026

🔥Hub Highlights and Happenings🔥
At the SSU Kricker Innovation Hub, innovation happens through collaboration, creativity, workforce development, and community connection. Over the last several weeks, our team has been proud to host, attend, and support programs that strengthen entrepreneurship, education, manufacturing, technology, and regional growth partnerships throughout Southern Ohio and Appalachia.

Scroll through our pictures for program updates and a look at some of the exciting momentum happening at the Hub and across our region!

At the Kricker Innovation Hub, we believe innovation grows through people, partnerships, and possibility. Thank you to all of the educators, students, employers, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and regional partners helping move our region forward.
To learn more about upcoming events, workshops, and opportunities, follow the Kricker Innovation Hub and Shawnee State University online, reach out or stop by in person. The Hub is open for business Monday through Friday, from 9 :00 am to 5:00 pm.

05/19/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Regional High School Esports Tournament at Shawnee State Highlights Growing Competitive Gaming Scene Across the Tri-State
PORTSMOUTH, Ohio — Shawnee State University (SSU) recently hosted a high-energy regional high school esports tournament that brought together student competitors, coaches, and schools from across Southern Ohio and Kentucky for a full day of competition, collaboration, and community building.

Powered by SSU, the Tri-State Esports League (TSEL) Kickoff Tournament showcased the growing enthusiasm for scholastic esports in the region, featuring a Valorant show match and a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate tournament with participating teams from Greenup County Kentucky, Valley High School, Portsmouth West High School, Ironton High School, and Athens High School and Athens Academy.

After a full day of competition, Athens High School emerged as tournament champions, advancing through the winner’s bracket before defeating Greenup County 2-1 in a tightly contested grand finals rematch.

Greenup County earned a strong second-place finish after an impressive lower bracket run that included victories over Ironton, Portsmouth West, and Valley. Valley High School finished third after a competitive lower bracket finals match against Greenup. Portsmouth West High School, despite recently launching its esports program, impressed competitors with a fourth-place finish and several close matches throughout the tournament.

Ironton High School and Athens Academy rounded out the field, with organizers emphasizing the sportsmanship, teamwork, and enthusiasm demonstrated by all participating students throughout the event.

The tournament opened with a Valorant exhibition show match featuring Portsmouth West High School competing against a combined roster of players from Great River Connections Academy, Ironton High School, and Portsmouth West.

“This tournament was one of the most fun events I have ever been a part of,” said Adam Schuler, Director of SSU Esports and TSEL Commissioner. “The kids were troopers and played their hardest and it was a great time. It made me very excited for the future of high school esports in the area.”

Regional coaches echoed the excitement surrounding the event and its impact on their students.

“Thank you for putting on such a great event,” said Brad Mack, head coach at Athens High School. “It was long and wild but it was so much fun. I really can’t say enough [about] how awesome it was.”

“All of my players had an amazing time, and as a coach, it is exciting to see the effort Shawnee is putting into growing a local scholastic esports league,” said Chris Martin, head coach at Ironton High School and former coach for Valley High School. “We have an ever-expanding group of passionate and talented students in our schools dedicated to esports. Providing them with the tools in which they can network and share their passions with their peers not only assures our area's esports scene will strengthen but teaches valuable skills for later in life.”

Coach Schuler said the tournament demonstrated the growing momentum behind scholastic esports and highlighted the demand for more structured regional competition opportunities for students interested in gaming, broadcasting, technology, and digital media.

The event also served as an early preview of the upcoming Tri-State High School Esports League, which will officially launch later in 2026 powered by Shawnee State Esports at Shawnee State University.

The league will connect high schools across southern Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia through organized competition and student-centered opportunities in esports, broadcasting, digital production, leadership, and technology career pathways.

“We’re building something much bigger than gaming,” Schuler said. “These events help students connect with peers, discover new opportunities, and develop skills that translate into real-world careers in technology, media, communications, and live production.”

The 2026 TSEL League season will feature titles including Super Smash Brothers Ultimate, Overwatch, Valorant, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Rocket League, and Marvel Rivals, with online regular season play leading into live championship events hosted at Shawnee State University.

Schools interested in learning more about the Tri-State High School Esports League can visit:

Tri-State High School Esports League Interest Form https://ssuinnovation.com/tri-state-esports-league?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Tournament brackets, videos, and event highlights can be viewed here: https://bit.ly/4tNETC6

For additional information or partnership opportunities, contact:
Adam Schuler
Director of Esports
Shawnee State University Kricker Innovation Hub
[email protected]
Discord: Shoes216

05/06/2026

Next Thursday, May 14th join us for a Crisis Communications Workshop with facilitators Jason Lovins, Terry Hapney and Chris Windell to sharpen your strategic communication and leadership skills. Learn from real world case studies the best way to handle challenging scenarios. This is the first offering to kick off of a new business resource Business 9-1-1 info workshop series to address the pain points most businesses feel. Future topics of Business 9-1-1 will include cybersecurity safeguards, elevator pitches, grant writing, accounting and more. Register today! https://bit.ly/4sHWmv3

Shawnee State University Experts to Lead Crisis Communication Workshop for Regional Professionals! Business owners, nonprofit leaders, educators, and community professionals across Southern Ohio are invited to sharpen their leadership and communication skills at an upcoming Crisis Communication Workshop hosted at Shawnee State University’s Kricker Innovation Hub.

Taking place Thursday, May 14 from 3–5 p.m. at the Kricker Innovation Hub, 221 Chillicothe Street, this interactive session is part of the Business 9-1-1 Info Series and is designed to equip participants with practical tools to respond effectively in high-pressure situations.

The workshop will be led by Jason Lovins, Ph.D., APR, and Terry L. Hapney Jr., Ph.D., both faculty members at Shawnee State University with extensive experience in strategic communication, leadership, and applied learning. Special guest Dr. Chris Swindell from the Marshall University J. Page Pitt School of Journalism and Mass Communications will join to help facilitate the workshop.

Participants will learn how to:
- Respond quickly and confidently in crisis situations
- Build a crisis communication plan before it’s needed
- Craft clear, credible messaging for media, stakeholders, and the public
- Protect organizational reputation and maintain trust
- Analyze real-world case studies to understand what works—and what doesn’t

The workshop is ideal for entrepreneurs, small business owners, nonprofit organizations, public sector leaders, and anyone responsible for managing communication or leading teams.

Event Details:
📅 Thursday, May 14
🕒 3:00 – 5:00 PM
📍 Kricker Innovation Hub, 221 Chillicothe Street, Portsmouth, Ohio

Register today! https://bit.ly/4sHWmv3

04/28/2026

Big news for SSU and ShawneeXP as gaming program alum wins big at the Big Indie Pitch Competition. We are celebrating a major win for local game developers’ Gnomad at the Pocket Gamer Connects 2026 competition, a victory rooted in Shawnee State pride!

This milestone carries special meaning for the Shawnee State University community. Developer Elijah Wickerham is both an SSU graduate and a ShawneeXP alum, making this achievement a powerful example of how talent cultivated locally can reach global stages.

This accomplishment also reflects the dedication and mentorship of the outstanding faculty at Shawnee State University, whose commitment to student growth and creative excellence continues to shape the next generation of innovators.

Adding to the celebration, members of the SSU innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem were present to witness the moment firsthand. Garrett Davis and Clarissa Schauseil were there to celebrate alongside the team, representing the strength and support of the broader community behind this success.

Congratulations to the team behind Gnomad, to the alumni and faculty who helped shape this journey, and to everyone who continues to champion innovation at Shawnee State University. Go Bears!

Watch the video game trailer and read the full story here https://bit.ly/4eANGD9

04/27/2026

The Shawnee State ESports Summer Camp is a 3-day, on-campus experience designed for students in grades 8-12. Participants will train and compete in Valorant (Team-based) and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Individual).

June 23 - 25, 2026
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Kricker Innovation Hub at Shawnee State University

Program Cost $195 - includes lunch daily, a custom SSU Esports camp t-shirt and awards for top competitors.

Ready to compete?
Register today! https://bit.ly/48apjZf

04/23/2026

Today is World Book Day! To celebrate, the SSU Kricker Innovation Hub would like to share one of our favorites, The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage by Gary G. Schoeniger with you. Comment "everyday entrepreneurs" below and share this post. The first 10 people will win a free copy.

"Learning how to think like an entrepreneur can make a big difference in our everyday lives. This book looks beyond new venture creation to expose the entrepreneurial mindset as a teachable framework for thinking that has become essential for individuals, organizations, and communities to adapt and thrive in today's rapidly changing world."

From the Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage

04/22/2026

At Shawnee State University, esports is more than competition—it’s community, leadership, and opportunity. In this interview series, we’re highlighting the women of SSU Esports who are shaping the future of gaming on and off the screen. From players and creators to strategists and leaders, these women are breaking barriers, building connections, and redefining what it means to belong in esports. Get to know the voices, stories, and ambitions driving one of the most dynamic parts of our campus community.

Jilyan W. – “DEADbyPINK”
SSU Sophomore - Role: Team Captain (Tank – Marvel Rivals)
Hometown: Centerville, OH

🎮 How did you get started in gaming/esports?
“I grew up playing video games with my dad—he’s the one who got me into gaming and inspired me to want to create games myself. When I saw esports at Shawnee, it sparked my interest because I already loved gaming, so I thought, why not try it competitively?”

💬 What has your experience been like in esports?
“It’s been a mix of growth and learning. Competing has pushed me to be more confident, more open, and more vocal. Being on a team has helped me come out of my shell and realize how much communication and trust matter.”

🤝 What makes SSU Esports unique?
“It really feels like a family. You support each other in and out of the game—whether it’s celebrating wins, learning from losses, or just checking in on each other. Everyone wants to see each other succeed.”

💡 Why did you choose to stay involved?
“I love my team. We’ve built something together, and I genuinely care about everyone on it. That sense of connection and shared purpose is what keeps me involved.”

🎯 What’s your role on the team?
“I’m one of the captains and I play tank. My role is to protect my team, create space, and help lead communication and strategy during matches.”

🚀 What needs to change in esports for the future?
“I think there needs to be more accountability and more people speaking up. Creating a welcoming environment isn’t just about saying women belong—it’s about actively making it known, addressing harassment, and making sure everyone feels safe to participate.”

🌟 Advice for future students/players?
“Don’t let the fact that you don’t see people like you stop you. Stay in your own lane, focus on your growth, and go after what you love—you deserve to be there just as much as anyone else.”

💥 Final Thought
“You’re not just a woman in esports—you’re a player. Let your skill speak for itself.”

🎯 Call to Action
More than a team. More than a game. This is where you belong.

Sign up today https://admissions.shawnee.edu/register/esports_interest
Follow all the action and support SSU Esports https://linktr.ee/ShawneeStateEsports



Photo credit - special thanks to SSU arts (graphic design + photography) student Maisy Bender, for giving her time and talent to the program for team photos.

04/22/2026

At Shawnee State University, esports is more than competition—it’s community, leadership, and opportunity. In this interview series, we’re highlighting the women of SSU Esports who are shaping the future of gaming on and off the screen. From players and creators to strategists and leaders, these women are breaking barriers, building connections, and redefining what it means to belong in esports. Get to know the voices, stories, and ambitions driving one of the most dynamic parts of our campus community.

Faith N. – ruggbunn1e
SSU Freshman - Role: Production
Hometown: Greenup County Kentucky

🎮 How did you get started in gaming and esports?
“I grew up in a family that loved games—video games, board games, all of it. My stepdad even develops games, and I’ve helped create art for them. Gaming has always been part of my life, so when I found out there was an esports team here, I knew I wanted to be part of it.”

💬 What has your experience been like as a woman in esports?
“Gaming can be really toxic sometimes. People will say things like you don’t belong, especially when they find out you’re a woman. You have to have a strong backbone—but if you don’t, that’s okay too. The team here really supports each other.”

🤝 What makes the SSU Esports community different?
“They’re so warm and welcoming. Even when people disagree, they come back and apologize. It’s the kind of environment where you don’t feel like you have to respect people—you want to…the team here is very protective of each other.”

💡 Why did you choose to stay involved?
“Getting more women into esports isn’t about opening a door—it’s about making sure the room feels worth walking into. I stayed because I found my people. I don’t want to lose that.”

🎥 What do you love about your role as a streamer?
“Streaming makes me feel connected to everyone—not just one team. It feels like everyone is my teammate.”

🚀 What needs to change to bring more women into esports?
“Getting more women into esports isn’t about opening a door—it’s about making sure the room feels worth walking into. Representation matters, but so do respect, safe spaces, and being treated like equals.”

🌟 What advice would you give to young women interested in esports?
“Even if you don’t have your group yet, it’s still out there. Ignore the ‘what if’ and just try it—you’ll figure it out.”

💥 What’s one thing you want the next generation of women in esports to know?
“Don’t think you’re any less—you’re just different, and that’s okay.”

🎯 Call to Action
Find your people. Build your future. Join SSU Esports.

Are you interested in joining the team?
Sign up today https://admissions.shawnee.edu/register/esports_interest

Follow all the action and support SSU Esports https://linktr.ee/ShawneeStateEsports



Photo credit - special thanks to SSU arts (graphic design + photography) student Maisy Bender, for giving her time and talent to the program for team photos.

04/22/2026

At Shawnee State University, esports is more than competition—it’s community, leadership, and opportunity. In this interview series, we’re highlighting the women of SSU Esports who are shaping the future of gaming on and off the screen. From players and creators to strategists and leaders, these women are breaking barriers, building connections, and redefining what it means to belong in esports. Get to know the voices, stories, and ambitions driving one of the most dynamic parts of our campus community.

Phoebe – “phoebe.fishin”
SSU Junior – Role: Fighting Game Player (Academy Team)
Hometown: London, OH

🎮 How did you get started in gaming/esports?
“I’ve played video games most of my life, but I didn’t get into esports seriously until a few years ago—around COVID. I met people through the fighting game club at school, and that’s really what pulled me into competing.”

💬 What has your experience been like in esports?
“It’s been a lot of growth. Fighting games are fast-paced, so you’re constantly adapting and learning in real time. It’s challenging, but it’s also really rewarding when you start to improve.”

🤝 What makes SSU Esports unique?
“Each team has its own dynamic, but overall it’s a really supportive environment. For us, we’re close-knit, relaxed, and friendly—but we still take competition seriously and push each other to get better.”

💡 Why did you choose to stay involved?
“I’ve just been having a blast with it. It started as a way to meet people, and it turned into something I genuinely enjoy and want to keep growing in.”

🎯 What’s your role on the team?
“I compete in fighting games, which are one-on-one. So while we support each other as a team, when it comes to matches, it’s all about individual performance, adaptation, and skill.”

🚀 What needs to change in esports for the future?
“More inclusivity. I’ve been lucky to have a positive experience, but it’s definitely still an issue in esports overall. Creating a more welcoming environment for everyone is really important.”

🌟 Advice for future students/players?
“Stay disciplined and focus on your priorities—school comes first. And if people are being rude or discouraging, ignore them. Focus on improving and building strong relationships with your team.”

💥 Final Thought
“You’re here to grow—so focus on getting better and don’t let anyone hold you back.”

More than a team. More than a game. This is where you belong.

Sign up today https://admissions.shawnee.edu/register/esports_interest
Follow all the action and support SSU Esports https://linktr.ee/ShawneeStateEsports



Photo credit - special thanks to SSU arts (graphic design + photography) student Maisy Bender, for giving her time and talent to the program for team photos.