TOLEDO, Ohio – The second annual Rockets Ascend Pathways Program kick-off event was held on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at the Inside the Five Fieldhouse for University of Toledo student-athletes to meet with Toledo community leaders.

The Rockets Ascend Pathways Program provides student-athletes with the opportunity to learn from area executives and leaders to build meaningful relationships that will help support their growth beyond the athletics.

Twenty student-athletes across all 17 Toledo varsity sports attended the kick-off event. Student-athletes were paired with a mentor that lined up with their individual career goals. Industries represented at the event included education, finance, marketing, healthcare, banking, politics and more.
 
"As we enter the second year of Rockets Ascend, I am excited to further elevate the opportunity provided through this program for both mentors and mentees," said Director of Student-Athlete Development Traci Snyder. "This initiative offers our student-athletes a unique chance to learn directly from industry leaders right here in the heart of Toledo—an experience that's invaluable to both their personal development and future career success. Having so many Toledo leaders volunteer to join this cohort speaks volumes about our city's commitment to student growth. We're fortunate to be part of a community that invests in the next generation."

The Rockets Ascend Pathways Program will continue far beyond the kick-off event for the student-athletes. The mentors and mentees will participate in professional development workshops, job shadowing and other career-building events throughout the school year to continuously grow and learn from one another.

"I'm thrilled to be part of the University of Toledo's Rockets Ascend Program and have the opportunity to mentor a student-athlete," said Troy Hill, Vice President of Business Development at Front Door Marketing. "Supporting their growth both on and off the field is incredibly rewarding. I'm excited to help guide the next generation of leaders."

Rockets softball player Maggie Roh attended the kick-off event and is excited for the program's mentorship opportunity.

"The Rocket Ascend program is an amazing opportunity to bounce ideas off of someone who is in the industry, along with getting to learn from the best people who care about your well-being both on and off the field," said Roh. "They are just as excited about our success as we are. It's nice having someone in our corner to guide us through the obstacles we will face."

Community leaders interested in participating in the Rockets Ascend Pathways Program may contact Traci Snyder at 419-530-3647 or by email at Traci.Snyder@utoledo.edu.