From the Director’s Desk

A Reflection on the Journey We’ve Shared

At the encouragement of the Board of Directors, I’ve taken a moment to reflect on the work we’ve done together as the Shawnee Transformation Youth Coalition (STYC). This isn’t something I would usually write—celebrating your own work feels a bit like throwing yourself a party—but I recognize the importance of pausing to honor our journey, not just for myself, but for the community that has fueled this mission.

I joined the coalition in 2016 under sudden and difficult circumstances, following the departure of the previous director. At the time, our future was uncertain. But I was grounded by my roots in public health and equity, having served with the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness and the country’s first Center for Health Equity. I believed then—and still believe now—that when youth and communities are supported, they thrive.

Since then, STYC has grown from a local prevention initiative to a recognized force in community transformation:

We secured our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and maintained continuous federal funding.
We expanded into new state, local, and community partnerships.
Both our coalition and youth advocates meet regularly and help shape our yearly goals.
STYC has reached national audiences, winning awards for youth-led video campaigns and tobacco prevention efforts.
Our youth team, once unheard, now leads conversations at the state capitol and online through our growing social media presence.

None of this came easily. We weathered a global pandemic, turnover in key roles, disengagement from local school districts, and even delays in federal funding. Any one of these could have brought the work to a halt. But instead of stopping, we adapted, we evolved—and we kept going.

This work is never about one person. It's about the shared vision of the Shawnee community, the dedication of our youth, the strength of our partners, and the unwavering commitment of our coalition members.

To be recognized by the Executive Board, coalition, and youth in this way is deeply humbling. I accept this moment of reflection not as a personal spotlight, but as a celebration of what we have done together—and a recommitment to the work ahead.

Thank you for being part of this journey. The best is still to come.

With gratitude,
Angela Hollingsworth, Executive Director

Shawnee Transformation Youth Coalition Inc

Contributor’s Note: Bonnie Taylor, MSW, LCSW, is a dedicated Mental Health Therapist based in Louisville, KY, specializing in trauma care for youth and adults. With a deep commitment to community well-being, she has been collaborating with STYC for the past two years, offering her expertise and support wherever needed.

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