7th & 8th Grade Youth Conference

Presenter: Investigator Howard Carlson – Genesee County Sheriff’s Office

You scroll, game, post, and DM every day — but do you know who’s really on the other side of the screen? Learn how to spot scams, fake profiles, risky situations, and more.

Presenter: Trooper Jeffrey Bebak – New York State Police

Get a behind-the-scenes look at what the New York State Police do every day to keep communities safe. Hear real experiences, ask questions, and learn about teamwork, leadership, and making positive choices.

Presenter: Fay Fuerch – NYS DEC K-9 Unit

Learn how K-9 teams help keep communities safe — and even protect the environment — from detecting illegal substances to tracking and identifying environmental hazards.

Presenter: Jason Mindler – Genesee County Probation Department

Replica or toy weapons that look real can turn a normal day into a serious situation fast. Hear real stories, learn what happens when it’s hard to tell what’s real, and how new laws could affect you.

Presenter: Detective Jim DeFreze – City of Batavia Police Department

See how a DWI investigation works — from tools officers use to impairment tests. Try the walk-and-turn sobriety test and the DWI pedal cars with impairment-simulation goggles.

Presenter: David Flood

Explore the impact of loneliness, why connection matters, and how small actions can make a big difference. This session encourages practical ways to show empathy, respect, and courage.

Presenters: Sherri Bensley & Laiken Ricker – GO Health

Through interactive activities and discussion, explore how small actions create big impacts. Learn how empathy builds stronger friendships, prevents hurtful behavior, and supports a positive school community.

Presenter: Agnes Bowers – RESTORE

Learn the key traits of healthy relationships including respect, communication, boundaries, trust, and support. Students will also create a relationship safety plan to take with them.

Presenters: Lauren Berger & Timothy Rush – GLOW OUT!

A supportive, judgment-free workshop for LGBTQ+ students and allies. Learn about resources, build resilience, ask questions, and connect in a safe space — plus a craft focused on self-expression and confidence.

Presenters: Theresa Osborn, Jodi Dolan, & Diana Fulcomer – UConnectCare

Through group activities and guided discussions, explore kindness, empathy, and cooperation. Learn respectful ways to work together and support others.

Presenter: Jeffery Young – Genesee County Job Development

Hands-on activities and thought-provoking questions help students explore barriers and practical ways to overcome them. Hear stories of community members who faced challenges and came out on top.

Presenters: Youth Court & Youth Lead Members – Genesee County Youth Bureau

Learn about Youth Lead (an 8-month program focused on community exploration, careers, and leadership skills) and Youth Court (hands-on roles like judge, attorney, or bailiff while helping peers learn from mistakes).

Presenter: Chris Suozzi – Genesee County Economic Development Center

Explore how careers in mechatronics, welding, electrical work, and other trades can pay big. Get a sneak peek at the tools, tech, and opportunities behind these paths.

Presenter: Rich Monroe – Genesee Valley BOCES

Through demonstrations and interactive activities, explore electricity and automation and how signals power machines, systems, and everyday technology.

Presenter: Claudia Nusstein – Genesee County Parks, Recreation, & Forestry

Learn geocaching (a GPS-based treasure hunt) while building teamwork, navigation skills, outdoor confidence, and nature exploration.

Presenter: Maria Thompson – GLOW YMCA

A reminder that play matters at any age. Take a break from day-to-day pressures and reconnect through simple, joyful play.

Presenters: Emma Pratt & Kahlil Simon – Independent Living of the Genesee Region

A calming, hands-on workshop blending simple art activities with mindfulness techniques to help students relax, refocus, and recharge.

Presenter: Jackie Swaby – GO ART!

Learn basic drumming techniques with djembe and other percussion, build rhythms together, and finish with a high-energy drum circle.

Presenter: Cristiano Pereira – GO ART!

Create a one-of-a-kind art piece using a variety of materials — experiment, mix it up, and show off your style.

Presenter: Deacon Smith – Batavia Players, Inc.

Practice kindness and empathy through improv games and short scenes in a supportive, low-pressure environment. No scripts — just participation, creativity, and connection.