The Ohio Hi-Point Career Center announced this week that Ohio Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel will serve as the keynote speaker for its Class of 2026 Convocation Ceremony. 

The ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 20, at 6:30 p.m. at Bellefontaine High School. 

Tressel, who has served as Ohio’s lieutenant governor since February 2025, is widely recognized for his leadership in education and workforce development.

He previously served as president of Youngstown State University, where he oversaw major improvements in student success and campus growth. A former executive at the University of Akron and a proud graduate of Baldwin-Wallace and the University of Akron, Tressel brings decades of experience guiding young people toward opportunity —including a distinguished coaching career that included national championships at both Youngstown State and The Ohio State University.

As a statewide leader in workforce and education, his message will connect directly to the future pathways of Ohio Hi-Point graduates. 

“Our Convocation Ceremony is a time to recognize the work our students have put in over the past two years to become career-ready,” said Superintendent Brad Richardson. “Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel has been a strong advocate for connecting education to workforce opportunities, and we’re excited for him to share that message with our graduates as they take their next steps into employment, enrollment, enlistment or entrepreneurship.” 

Ohio Hi-Point’s Convocation Ceremony honors graduating seniors as they complete their career-technical programs. The event highlights students’ achievements and recognizes their readiness for success across all pathways. 

The ceremony is planned to take place outdoors in the Bellefontaine High School football stadium. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move indoors.

Families are encouraged to attend and celebrate the Class of 2026. Tickets and additional details for Ohio Hi-Point’s Convocation Ceremony can be found at www.ohiohipoint.com/convocation.