Advocate Earns Fellowship Toward Degree

posted 3/8/24 -- Xiomara Yochum’s advocacy work continues to grow thanks to her continuing education.

Yochum earned the Great Minds Fellowship and will complete her bachelor’s degree in social work this summer through the University of Akron with no debt.

“Thanks to writing essays, applying for scholarships and grants and now the Fellowship, I will not owe for school by the time I graduate,” she said.

Yochum has worked in the LCCAA Energy Services Department since 2020. After immigrating to Lorain County from Ecuador at age 10, she became involved with a local Jehovah’s Witness congregation. After spending four years in missionary work in her native country, she returned to Lorain when COVID-19 shut travel down. Her bilingual abilities and focus on mental health have been strong assets in the Energy Services department.

“I really enjoy working with those who are less fortunate and my experience here at LCCAA has really enhanced that,” she said. “My department has played a tremendous role in my continuing education. They have been extremely supportive and I will always be forever grateful.”

The Great Minds Fellowship is available to students within two years of graduating. Fellows must commit to at least one year of employment at a Community Behavioral Health Center upon graduation. The program helps students jump start career’s while allowing communities across Ohio to better care for those living with mental health and substance abuse disorders.

The Fellowship also includes assistance with preparation for licensing with the state and the cost of the board exam, Yochum said.

“I want to make a difference and I know my education is the only way to do that,” she added. “I wanted to prove to myself and my kids that with determination, commitment and hard work anything is possible.”