News - LEADERSHIP OHIO (2024)

America 250-Ohio Commission Grant Will Allow Statewide Tour Addressing Loneliness

Columbus, Ohio (June 13, 2024) – In the lead-up to America’s 250th anniversary, Leadership Ohio announced today it received a $35,000 Buckeye Impact Grant from the America 250-Ohio Commission for its upcoming project titled, “Join In – Uniting Communities in Ohio.”

To counter the declared “epidemic of isolation and loneliness” declared by the Surgeon General in the U.S. in 2023 while working towards a more united Ohio, Leadership Ohio will tour five regions of the state and screen the new documentary “Join or Die” by Delevan Street Films. Based on the research of Ohioan Robert Putnam of “Bowling Alone” fame, the film highlights the importance of civic associations or clubs in creating community and strengthening democracy.

Leadership Ohio aims to reach Ohioans in 44 counties with its’ partners. Attendees will discuss the film’s themes and receive information about how to join local civic organizations. Working with expert historians, Leadership Ohio will also create the Join In: Community Toolkit which will highlight Ohio’s rich history of civic associations, share stories of past Ohioans who launched clubs that changed their community, and help current Ohioans start or join civic associations- all to highlight points of pride and unity for the state’s residents.

“This grant will allow us to make an impact. Ohio has a rich history of civic associations that have connected citizens. A new generation of civic associations can unleash aspirations Ohioans have for themselves and our state today,” said Lisa Duty, Ph.D, Executive Director of Leadership Ohio. “This kind of independence and enterprise is critical to Ohio’s civic health and the social fabric of our democracy.”

Leadership Ohio was one of 61 recipients chosen by the Commission from the more than 170 statewide applications during the grant program’s spring 2024 funding cycle.

“The America 250-Ohio Commission congratulates Leadership Ohio on this grant award. Their efforts in educating the public and honoring Ohio’s illustrious history are deeply appreciated,” said Doug Preisse, co-chair of the America 250-Ohio Commission. “As we near America’s 250th anniversary, these projects will play an essential role in elevating our state’s history and bolstering our communities' efforts to execute impactful initiatives during such a monumental celebration.”

America 250-Ohio awarded approximately $600,000 in grants to communities and organizations across Ohio as part of the commission’s second funding cycle. Combined with the nearly $400,000 in grants awarded in January 2024, the America 250-Ohio Commission grants program has worked with Ohio Humanities to distribute $1 million in grants to 84 organizations across the state. The grant program was designed to showcase the achievements, struggles, honors, innovations, and significance of all people in Ohio from before its founding to today.

Leadership Ohio’s project, Join In – Uniting Communities in Ohio, is also partially funded by the Ellis Family Fund.

For more information on Leadership Ohio, visit leadershipohio.org. To learn more about the America 250-Ohio Commission’s grants program visit America250-Ohio.org/grants/.

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About Leadership Ohio

Leadership Ohio is Ohio's most prestigious, non-partisan statewide leadership development program, founded in 1992. Success in our mission creates a unifying movement of diverse, connected leaders who make Ohio the best state to live and work. For more information, please visit our website at leadershipohio.org.

About America 250-Ohio

In 2026, the United States will celebrate its semiquincentennial, which is the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Each state has been encouraged to create a celebration and commemoration of this anniversary to reflect the unique character and contributions of each state to the nation over the past 250 years. Ohio is fully embracing this opportunity. The Ohio Commission for the Semiquincentennial (aka America 250-Ohio Commission or AM250-OH) was created by the Ohio legislature and launched on March 1, 2022. The charge of the AM250-OH Commission is to “…to plan, encourage, develop, andcoordinate the commemoration of the twohundred fiftieth anniversary of thefounding of the United States and theimpact of Ohioans on the nation’s past,present, and future.” — Ohio Revised Code (149.309). More information can be found at America250-Ohio.org.

About Ohio Humanities

Ohio Humanities is a statewide nonprofit that shares stories to spark conversations and inspire ideas by hosting programs and awarding grants that support storytellers statewide, from museums to journalists to documentary filmmakers. For more information, please visit our website at OhioHumanities.org.

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In spring 2024, Leadership Ohio launched the Leadership Circle, its annual giving campaign. The Leadership Circle presents an opportunity to support organizational programming and nurture our collective legacy.

Our deepest gratitude to our many members of the Leadership Circle 2024. Each contribution, no matter the size, helps expand and deepen our work.

Thank you:

Jamie Martin

Diana Welling

Angela Parker Moses

Claudia Kraly

Melissa Miller

Karl Dostal

Ugochi Akoi

Kenneth Surratt

Emily Keeler

Joseph French

Joe Weitz

John Moore

Michelle Blanton

Todd Kleismit

Lynanne Gutierrez

Melissa Owens

Kate Blakley

Donald Bush

Christian Campbell

Sharon Perkins

Hope Taft

Amy Riegel

Keith Bowman

Bruce Brandstter

Chad Hoffman

Melissa Currence

Dennis Kennedy

Lydia Gadd

Ann Donnelly Hamilton

Donald Meyer

Darrell Butler

Robin Stone

Jason Crabill

Matt Primmer

Jocelyn Rosnick

Mary McDonald

Alison Goebel

Shon Christy

Stephanie McManus Renda

Tracie Campbell

Randy Cole

Andrew Mangels

Lilleana (Lilly) Cavanaugh

Neethi Johnson

Eric Wobser

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We are thrilled to announce that our own Executive Director, Dr. Lisa Duty, has been appointed by Governor Mike DeWine to the Ohio Commission on Service and Volunteerism, effective May 31, 2024. This appointment is a testament to Lisa’s service and impact on our great state.

The Ohio Commission on Service and Volunteerism, also known as ServeOhio, plays a vital role in promoting and supporting volunteerism and community service throughout the state. ServeOhio was created to empower local communities to mobilize AmeriCorps members and volunteer resources forthe purpose of building a stronger Ohio.

ServeOhio is authorized under section 121.40 of the Ohio Revised Code and is purposed specifically to administer grants in Ohio under the federal National & Community Service Trust Act of 1993.Through collaborations and partnerships with nonprofit, government, and community organizations across the state, ServeOhio increases the effective utilization of AmeriCorps members and community volunteers working to address the state's frontline issues in education, health, economic opportunity, and environmental stewardship.

Lisa’s appointment to this commission underscores her unwavering commitment to service. Please join us in congratulating Lisa on this well-deserved honor.

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35 Leaders in Public and Private Sectors to Convene and Impact Future Policy

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Leadership Ohio, the state’s only leadership development program that connects diverse leaders from across Ohio to promote positive change, is pleased to announce the class of 2024. After receiving a record 147 nominations through a competitive selection process, the organization is appointing 35 individuals as 2024 Leadership Ohio Fellows.

Over the next eight months, these leaders will explore critical questions, engage in challenging social discourse, and identify opportunities that impact Ohioans and the communities in which they live and work.

“I am incredibly excited about the transformational impact this program will have on our participants, catalyzing positive change throughout Ohio,” said Shon Christy, president of the Leadership Ohio Board of Trustees. "The cultivation of leadership is not just a necessity, it's a responsibility. We’ve spent months reviewing applications and conducting interviews to get us to this point."

The Class of 2024 comes from many different sectors, including Energy, Transportation, Education, Economic Development, Arts, and more. These fellows live in different corners of the state and represent a spectrum of ideological and political viewpoints. 43% identify on the Conservative spectrum, and 57% on the Liberal spectrum. This variety of viewpoints is a cornerstone of the program as Ohio steers towards a thriving future for people of all ages and beliefs.

Fellows will engage in a series of intensive sessions that cover topics such as agriculture, manufacturing, the Great Lakes, human trafficking, opioid addiction, fair chance hiring, and economic development. Most importantly, they will build impactful relationships with other leaders from around the state with goals for lasting change throughout their careers.

“We’re excited to welcome these distinguished changemakers who are on the leading edge of solutions for a future-driven Ohio,” said Lisa Duty, Ph.D., executive director of Leadership Ohio. “I look forward to the ways they will inspire lasting, positive change throughout our state.”

Once fellows graduate they are inducted into the Leadership Ohio alumni network comprised of accomplished, diverse, and talented Ohioans that are making a difference in their communities. And new in 2024, Leadership Ohio is launching Catalyst 1803. This online tool is a one-stop-shop where Leadership Ohio alumni can virtually gather and launch initiatives in a variety of areas that make a difference throughout the state of Ohio.

Nominations for the class of 2025 open October 2024.

For more information about Leadership Ohio, visit www.leadershipohio.org.

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Meet the Leadership Ohio Class of 2024

Akron Area

Kemp Boyd, Executive Director, Love Akron

Catey Breck, Director of Economic Development, inSITE Advisory Group

Tristan Griffin, Executive Director, Farming with Friends

Ashley Kline, LPCC-S, Chief Program Officer, Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center

Bill Manby, Founding and Managing Partner, Interstate Fusion Ventures

Don Meyer, Owner, Sergeants Home Improvements

Canton-Massillon Area

Christy Davis, Curator of Exhibitions, Canton Museum of Art

Angela Moses, Executive Director, Early Childhood Resource Center

Cincinnati Area

Joe Huber, President and CEO, Cincinnati Development Fund

Columbus Area

Bill Downing, Director of Tax Credit Development, BORROR

Michelle Fowler, Manager of Crash Safety, Transportation Research Center Inc.

Maria L. Haberman, Vice President – OH External Affairs, American Electric Power

David Meadows, Economic Development Director, City of Hilliard

Eve Mueller, Deputy Director of Communications, Ohio Governor's Office

Melissa Owens, MBA, Executive Director, Licking County Aging Partners

Gordon Rooney, Senior Consultant, State & Local Government, Guidehouse

Kristen Slaper, Director of Law Enforcement Initiatives, Ohio Department of Public Safety

Lynette Thomas, Vice President of Customer Experience & Store Communication and Operations, Lane Bryant (Knitwell Group)

Corey Wybensinger, Sr., Deputy Director of Administrative Services, City of Gahanna

Cleveland-Elyria Area

Kile Byington, Fiscal Officer, Twinsburg Public Library

Patrick Espinosa, Founder and Managing Partner, Sus Abogados Latinos

Lydia Gadd, MA, LPCC-S, Director of Community Services, City of Westlake

Marcus Harris, Diversity and Economic Opportunity Manager, City of Sandusky

Autumn Russell, President and CEO, Greater Cleveland Career Consortium

Delanté Spencer Thomas, Chief Ethics Officer, City of Cleveland

Dayton Area

Torey Hollingsworth, Executive Director, Ohio CDC Association

Mark C. Lyle, Legislative Affairs Officer, 88th Air Base Wing, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

Brandon C. McClain, Magistrate and Acting Judge, Dayton Municipal Court

Dan Wendt, City Manager, City of Vandalia

Demarus Crawford White, DBA, Executive Director, NPower

Lima Area

Ann Donnelly, Project Manager, Small Nation

Mansfield Area

Kate Blakley, Senior Manager, External Communications, Westfield

North Northeastern Area

Jeff Gottke, President, Area Development Foundation, Inc.

Southern Ohio Area

Russell Morrow, Ed.D., Interim Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, Ohio University

Weirton-Steubenville Area

Edward L. Littlejohn, Jr., Founding Attorney, Littlejohn Law, LLC

Contact:

Lisa Duty
Executive Director
Leadership Ohio
lisaduty@leadershipohio.org
614.806.0607

Leadership Ohio Fellow Biographies

Autumn R. Russell, President and CEO, Greater Cleveland Career Consortium
Autumn Russell is a dedicated collective impact leader with a strong commitment to designing system-level solutions to address complex social problems. As the President and CEO of the Greater Cleveland Career Consortium (GCCC), Russell has been instrumental in bringing together diverse stakeholders to design a comprehensive, coordinated, and community-wide approach to career exploration and readiness that advances regional economic prosperity and empowers young Greater Clevelanders to chart their own path toward success.

As a respected thought-leader in aligning education and workforce systems, Russell brings a wealth of experience in facilitating collaboration, fostering partnerships, and implementing sustainable solutions. Prior to GCCC, Russell co-designed Early College, Early Career, an award-winning and nationally recognized youth apprenticeship model that links high school students to careers in STEM. Earlier in her career, she managed education reform strategies at the Ohio Department of Education and designed career-focused and workforce development initiatives for various K-12 and higher education institutions.

Russell holds a master’s in education administration and leadership, a bachelor’s in organizational development, and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in public policy and administration. Past awards for her work include Crain’s Business 40 Under 40, Commission on Economic Inclusion Champion, and Bank of America's Neighborhood Builder. Russell is a class of 2021 Leadership Cleveland graduate and an active leader in her community. She is dedicated to making a positive impact by advocating for local needs and serving on multiple nonprofit boards.

She enjoys spending quality time with her husband Michael, and their three daughters.

Mark C. Lyle, Legislative Affairs Officer, 88th Air Base Wing (ABW) Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB)
In this role, Lyle is the primary legislative advisor to the Wright Patterson Air Force Base Commander. He directly interfaces with members of Congress and their staff members on a regular basis to keep them apprised of installation issues. He monitors, evaluates, and analyzes national legislative activities for the 88th ABW. Lyle monitors organizations to ensure appropriate input is provided to respond to congressional inquiries and advises the commander on local legislative issues. He organizes congressional visits with members of Congress and their staffers.

Prior to his current position, Lyle served as Public Affairs Officer at Wright-Patterson. He was responsible for carrying out a wide range of public affairs assignments including, civic outreach, community engagement, communication planning, contingency/crisis response, special event planning, environmental, security, policy review, and public affairs resource management in support of the mission and the commander’s priorities.

A native of Xenia, Lyle is a 30-year retired veteran of the United States Air Force. His personal awards include three Meritorious Service Medals, two Air Force Commendation Medals, and two Air Force Achievement Medals.

Lyle has associate degrees from the Community College of the Air Force, and a bachelor's in sociology and a master’s in rehabilitation counseling, both from Wilberforce University.

Lyle is a graduate of Leadership Dayton, LEADership Wright-Patterson, Parity Inc. Black Leadership Development Program and a 2023 Parity Inc. Top Ten African American Male. He is currently on the board of directors for the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce and Eastway Behavioral Health Care.

Lyle has been married to his wife Deb for over twenty-three years and they have four children and two grandchildren. He is an avid sports fan who enjoys music, travel, and hanging out with family and friends.

Christy Davis, Curator of Exhibitions, Canton Museum of Art
Christy Davis is a dynamic leader in the arts and culture sector, currently serving as the Curator of Exhibitions at the Canton Museum of Art (CMA). Davis is a passionate advocate for inclusive and dynamic storytelling within the arts, dedicated to creating exhibitions that resonate with diverse audiences and spark meaningful conversations. She strives to ensure that all people see themselves represented in the galleries, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

In addition to her work at CMA, Davis is deeply involved in the cultural landscape of Ohio. As the Immediate Past President of the Ohio Local History Alliance (OLHA) and a member of the America-250 Ohio Commission, she is committed to promoting and preserving the state's vibrant history and heritage.

Davis is also dedicated to environmental conservation and education, serving as a board member for The Wilderness Center in Wilmot, Ohio. Her commitment to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of nature aligns with her belief in the transformative power of art and culture.

Davis holds a bachelor’s in both psychology and art therapy, along with a minor in art history from Capital University where she also earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art. She earned her master's in arts administration from the University of Akron.

Prior to her role at CMA, Davis was the Registrar at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, where she honed her skills in collections management, media relations, and exhibition coordination.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Davis is passionate about empowering young women through sports. She volunteers as a coach for girls' youth basketball and lacrosse, instilling in them the values of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. Davis lives in Canton with her husband and three children.

Demarus Crawford-White, DBA, Executive Director, NPower Ohio
Demarus Crawford-White has over twenty years in higher education, primarily working in financial aid, and is deeply aware of the burden of student loan debt. She also has a strong commitment to her community. Over the years, she has volunteered with several organizations that share her commitment to improving the community by helping others, including Dayton Urban League, the Wesley Center, Clothes at Work, Habitat for Humanity, the Trotwood Chamber of Commerce, WYSO, the Dayton Metro Library, and the Dayton Chamber of Commerce.

In 2020, she decided to leave the traditional four-year education and work for a progressive online company that was offering union members and their families a debt-free college experience. She worked directly with these students to maximize grant and gift aid to cover costs without using student loans. Crawford-White brings a positive attitude and optimistic energy to her work. She believes that personal happiness is a choice and that how you react to a situation is one of the few things over which you always have control. Now at NPower Ohio, she is excited to help young people, retired military members, and their spouses move quickly into well-paying careers without any educational debt. Crawford-White has a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Urbana University, a Master of Arts in Communication and Leadership from Park University, and a Doctorate of Business Administration from Northcentral University. She and her husband Michael are proud residents of Dayton.

Marcus Harris, Diversity and Economic Opportunity Manager, City of Sandusky
Marcus Harris is a proud native of Sandusky, Ohio, who has dedicated his career to driving meaningful change in his community. He currently serves as the Diversity and Economic Opportunity Manager for the City of Sandusky. In this role, he has established himself as a vital force for progress and expansive economic prosperity for all. With a strong educational background, a wealth of professional experience, and a deep commitment to public service, his life’s journey is rooted in a profound sense of purpose.

Harris draws from his diverse background, including a ten-year career in the private sector with Starbucks Coffee Company and with the nonprofit Youth Opportunities Unlimited to shape the city's inclusive landscape. Harris crafted, and is in the process of implementing, a comprehensive Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) strategic plan, attracting diverse talent and ensuring the workforce mirrors Sandusky's rich diversity. A key focus of Harris's contributions lies in creating sustainable wage employment pathways for local residents. Harris collaborates with regional workforce development organizations, educational institutions, county government agencies, and private sector partners to create opportunities that empower individuals and contribute to the city's economic growth.

A 1997 graduate of Sandusky High School, Harris earned his bachelor's degree from Bowling Green State University in 2009. Currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration from Bowling Green State University, Harris is set to graduate in April 2024. Harris's commitment to public service and helping others stems from the influence of his paternal grandmother, Ada Harris, and maternal grandfather, Pastor Donald Owens Sr. Their legacy inspires Harris to prioritize positive impact over monetary gains or job titles. Harris, along with his wife Katrina and their son Dallas, reside in Perkins Township, just south of Sandusky, OH.

Russell Morrow, Ed.D., Interim Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, Ohio University
Dr. Russell Morrow has over a decade of experience as a diversity, equity, and inclusion educator, consultant, and leader. He is currently the Interim Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) at Ohio University and was recently selected as 2024-2025 CDO Fellow for the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education. Previously, he served as the Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the College of Business at Ohio University.

Over the course of his career, Morrow has led student success and diversity and inclusion initiatives at the University of California, Davis, The Ohio State University, and Denison University. He is a two-time graduate of Ohio University, receiving his bachelor’s degree in communication with a focus on media arts studies and his master’s degree in education, with a focus on higher education and student affairs. Morrow’s doctorate degree is in education administration from The Ohio State University. He is also a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE®) and an Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI®) Qualified Administrator.

Morrow is passionate about civic engagement and service to his community. He has served as a board member for the Highland Youth Garden, a coach for central Ohio Special Olympics programs, a youth mentor for Franklin County Children Services, and has led hundreds of students on service-learning and cultural immersion experiences across the country. Morrow is a husband, a father, and in his spare time, a mediocre player of tennis, piano, and video games.

Corey Wybensinger, Sr. Deputy Director of Administrative Services, City of Gahanna
Corey Wybensinger stands as the Senior Deputy Director of Administrative Services for the City of Gahanna, Ohio, where his extensive background in both local government operations and financial management significantly contributes to the city's administrative excellence. With an academic foundation that includes an associate degree in economics from Columbus State University, a bachelor's degree in business administration from Saint Leo University, and a master's degree in public administration from Franklin University, Wybensinger brings a rich blend of theory and practical expertise to his role.

Wybensinger's journey through the realm of public service is marked by over fifteen years of progressive experience. His career has spanned several key positions, starting with the Monroe County School District (FL), the City of Solon (OH), and his role as a Deputy Director of Finance for Franklin County (OH), before his current role in Gahanna. This trajectory has endowed him with a nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in municipal governance and fiscal stewardship.

In addition to his professional duties, Wybensinger is an active member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), where he serves on the Veteran Advisory Committee (VAC). In this capacity, he dedicates his efforts to aiding veterans in navigating the transition from military service to meaningful careers within the public service sector.

Wybensinger's own military background as a Sergeant in the Ohio Army National Guard, including deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) has imbued him with leadership qualities and a resilience that serve him well in his civic responsibilities.

A family man, Wybensinger resides in the City of Gahanna with his wife of fifteen years and their two children. His personal and professional life reflects a deep commitment to his community.

Melissa Owens, MBA, Executive Director, Licking County Aging Partners
Melissa Owens is a dedicated and dynamic community leader with over a decade of non-profit experience, currently serving as the Executive Director of Licking County Aging Partners (LCAP). A proud native of the community she serves, she remained in Ohio for her higher education, attending Ohio Northern University to earn a BSBA in Management and then obtaining an MBA from Mount Vernon Nazarene University.

Passionate about serving older adults, Owens has a drive to fight ageism and remind humans of their value at every stage of life. She has led LCAP through an organizational rebrand and recently helped launch the Age-Friendly Initiative in Licking County. Strongly believing in the power of collaboration and the importance of sustaining lasting relationships, Owens maintains that it’s all about who you take the time to know. To this day, she has never turned down an invitation to share coffee with anyone willing to share their time and experience.

Over the course of her career, Owens has demonstrated a dedication to civic engagement, aiding her community through various efforts. She currently serves on the board of directors for LEADS Community Action Agency and TrueCore Federal Credit Union and is the President of the Licking County Governmental Preservation Society. She is an active member of the Newark Rotary Club, the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council, and a founding member of Young Leaders of Licking County. Whenever she can, Owens loves to travel, antique, and try new eats with her friends.

Angela Moses, Executive Director, Early Childhood Resource Center
Angela Moses is the newly appointed Executive Director of the Early Childhood Resource Center (ECRC). In her previous role as the Director of Early Care and Education Services, she served as the project director for the child care resource and referral grant for Service Delivery Area 4. Moses managed professional development services, including assessing the needs of the early childhood community, managing projects to address the needs, and supporting workforce and quality initiatives. Moses is experienced in grant writing and management, fundraising, staff management, and development and coordination of high-quality professional development services that include training programs, technical assistance, and community outreach.

Moses has thirty years of experience working in early care and education as a trainer and program director. She has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in curriculum instruction. She has worked at the ECRC for twenty-three years.

Angela resides in Massillon, Ohio with her fiance and four boys. She currently serves on the Board of Summit Education Initiative (SEI) and is a Guardian Ad Litem/CASA for family court.

Catey Breck, Director of Economic Development, inSITE Advisory Group, LLC
Catey Breck is the Director of Economic Development for inSITE Advisory Group, LLC, a regional economic development consulting firm that works with both corporations and municipalities to strategize, execute, and achieve their development goals. inSITE is an affiliate of Welty Building Company, a national construction company headquartered in Akron. Breck is a newlywed (yay!) who married her best friend John Scanlon in 2023 and is mother to a vivacious eight-year-old daughter.

For the last fifteen years, Breck served Northeast Ohioans at the federal, county, and municipal levels with more than a decade of experience in economic and community development. Most recently, Breck was the Director of Strategic Development for the City of Akron and co-led the Office of Integrated Development. During her tenure with the City of Akron, Breck oversaw the deployment of federal funding into key capital projects and city initiatives including the Akron Civic Commons – Lock 3 Park and Summit Lake North Shore, the Akron Financial Empowerment Center, the Small Business Relief Program, and fought tirelessly to establish the Targeted Help for Resilient InnoVative Entrepreneurs (THRIVE) program.

Through absolute persistence and dedication, Breck successfully secured millions of dollars in grant funding from both government and private foundations to help bring the vision of civic leaders and residents to life. Her passions are serving others, advocacy, and helping people achieve solutions, which is evident in her professional life and civic involvement. In her spare time, Breck co-leads her daughter’s Brownie troop, is a cantor for St. Hilary Church, and serves on the boards of Habitat for Humanity Summit County, Keep Akron Beautiful, and Ladies First Akron. Breck holds her BA in Political Science from the University of Akron and her MPA from the Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University.

Kemp Boyd, Executive Director, Love Akron
Kemp A. Boyd, married to his incredible wife, Stacy, and blessed with a family of six children, is a dedicated family man and community leader. He serves as the Executive Director of Love Akron and is also a Co-Pastor at Garden City Church. Additionally, Boyd emphasizes mentorship and community engagement as the Head Football Coach at Garfield High School.

Boyd earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Akron in 2004 and a master’s degree in organizational management with a concentration in business leadership from Ashford University in 2010. Boyd is a certified instructor of Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid, helping raise awareness of mental health challenges while reducing the stigma associated with mental health disorders.

Boyd serves as the Chair of the Akron Citizens' Police Oversight Board and is a member of other local boards including Leadership Akron, Summit County Children Services, Chapel Hill Christian School, First Tee, and is Co-Chair of County of Summit ADM Boards Change Direction. He is also an active member of the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, contributing to various community service initiatives, and fostering brotherhood among members.

Boyd brings a wealth of leadership experience to his role, embodying a relentless commitment to motivating others and empowering those around him to reach their full potential. Boyd is a firm believer that relationships are our greatest intervention and whether it's within the church, on the football field, or across Greater Akron, he strives to inspire individuals to be change-makers and make a collective impact.

Lydia Gadd, MA, LPCC-S, Director of Community Services, City of Westlake
Appointed by Westlake’s Mayor as the Community Services Director, Lydia Gadd, with her team, fosters connections and support for area older adults and residents in need. Their services offer solutions to the loneliness epidemic.

Over her tenure, the department’s service delivery tripled as they opened a new facility. Gadd was involved in all aspects of the planning, design, and construction phases. The comprehensive age-friendly considerations and modern amenities received national attention as an example of how to reframe aging. In addition to the building design accolades, Gadd’s department is also recognized for exemplary and innovative service delivery, winning a regional award in 2023 from Cuyahoga County Department of Senior and Adult Services.

As a daughter of immigrants, Gadd grew up in a close-knit ethnic neighborhood of Cleveland; no doubt sparking her appreciation for “community.” Her educational and professional background broadened her awareness of how “belonging” impacts overall health outcomes. With a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Cleveland State University and a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Ball State University, Gadd earned her independent counseling license and worked as a behavioral health clinician for the first half of her career. She practiced in various settings including inpatient psychiatry and private practice. She transitioned to an administrative role at University Hospital’s St. John Medical Center, where she was promoted as the Community Outreach Director. She continues to be engaged with the hospital as a member of their Mission & Values Committee. She also serves as a Chair of the Cuyahoga County Senior Services Network representing over sixty members and is on the board of the Farrell Foundation for Brain Health.

Gadd lives in Lakewood and has a daughter who attends the University of Dayton. Go Flyers! She also remains an active member of the Slovenian community in Cleveland. Go Browns!

Jeff Gottke, President, Area Development Foundation, Inc.
Jeff Gottkeis the president of the Knox Area Development Foundation (ADF), Knox County’s economic development organization. ADF’s mission is to increase economic opportunity for Knox County’s businesses and workers by attracting high-paying jobs, supporting community vibrancy, and growing local talent pools. The four-person staff brings together high standards and a strategic vision to deliver comprehensive services for business and workforce development.

After teaching high school history and government in South Carolina and Ohio for thirteen years, Gottke went to work as Vice President of ADF in 2018 to lead the newly created Knox County Land Bank. He was promoted to President in 2020 and has led the county through several major initiatives like preparing for population growth and repositioning a large urban former industrial site. Gottke has a master’s degree from Ashland University and a bachelor's degree from the University of Mount Union. He earned his Ohio Certified Economic Developer credential in 2021. He previously served on Mount Vernon City Council and currently serves on several boards, including the Knox County Chamber of Commerce, Board of Elections, and the Mid-Ohio Development Exchange serving Knox and adjoining counties. He lives in Mount Vernon.

Torey Hollingsworth, Executive Director, Ohio CDC Association
Torey Hollingsworth serves as Executive Director of the Ohio CDC Association (OCDCA), a statewide organization that fosters vibrant neighborhoods and improves the quality of life in all communities through advocacy and capacity building of its member agencies.

Before joining OCDCA in 2023, Hollingsworth served as the Director of the Office of the Dayton City Commission, where she managed the policy work and support staff for the city’s elected leadership. Before this role, she was Senior Policy Aide for Mayor Nan Whaley, where she focused on issues related to eviction prevention, police reform, housing quality, and reducing gun violence.

Prior to returning to her hometown of Dayton, Hollingsworth was the Manager of Research and Policy with Greater Ohio Policy Center, where she researched and supported efforts to revitalize Ohio’s smaller legacy cities. Hollingsworth previously served as Senior Regional Organizer at the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) and as an AmeriCorps VISTA for Greater DC Cares, both in Washington, DC.

Hollingsworth received her Master of City and Regional Planning from The Ohio State University and her BA from the University of Chicago. She is a 2021 graduate of Leadership Dayton and serves on the Dayton Art Institute Associate Board. Hollingsworth and her husband, Michael, live in Dayton's Historic Huffman neighborhood.

Joe Huber, President and CEO, Cincinnati Development Fund (CDF)
Joe Huber is a lifelong Cincinnatian, who is passionate about community and economic development issues affecting the urban core and first-ring neighborhoods of Cincinnati. Upon graduating from Butler University in 1994, Huber returned home to Cincinnati to begin a finance career. After ten years at Fifth Third Bank, he began working as Chief Operating Officer and Director of Lending for the Cincinnati Development Fund, a non-profit and non-regulated Community Development Financial Institution. Having been at CDF for eighteen years, Huber now leads the CDF team, directing its vision and execution of goals to achieve growth, innovation, community impact, and long-term sustainability. At the direction of the CDF Board, Joe guides the implementation of its strategic plan, ensuring organizational capacity and alignment, and collaborates with financial partners and community leaders to fund growth strategies and new products with critical short and long-term financial resources.

Huber and his wife, Christina, are the proud parents of three daughters: Mia (21- The Ohio State University (OSU)), Gemma (19-OSU), and Greta (14- Roger Bacon High School). They reside in the Clifton neighborhood of Cincinnati and have recently renovated and moved into a house in the woods. Beyond family and work life, Huber plays music with his lifelong friend, and they periodically perform at happy hours and celebratory events. Huber is active on local non-profit boards (historic preservation and community development) and is on the Board of Warsaw Federal, a 125-year-old savings and loan that recently converted its federal banking charter to become a Minority Deposit Institution, committed to serving under-banked populations of Cincinnati.

Tristan Griffin, Executive Director, Farming with Friends
In 2014, Griffin moved from his home state of Texas to Ohio, and within his first few months in the Buckeye State, he met a beautiful woman from Celina, Ohio. As the story goes, she pursued him until he said yes…couldn’t keep her away from him. In May of 2016, they got married and moved into a little one-bedroom apartment in the Akron area. They enjoyed nearly two years of peace and quiet, and then their family began to grow. Scout was born in 2018. Tillie and Bingham were born in 2020, and Dawsey was born in 2022.

As for his professional life, Griffin jokes about writing a book called, “Climbing Down the Ladder.” He started as an attorney, then became a college football coach, then went into full-time ministry, and now he’s a farmer. He’d say that this was all a part of his plan, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. The truth is that he’s been trying to follow God’s lead since 2015 and that pursuit has resulted in an atypical professional journey. Griffin is currently the Executive Director of a non-profit called Farming with Friends, which employs people with disabilities on an 87-acre farm in Hinckley, Ohio, as well as the owner of a business called Hill of Beans Fundraising, which specializes in fundraising consulting for non-profits, churches, and missionaries.

Prior to his professional journey, Griffin attended Texas Tech University where he studied energy commerce, and then completed his Juris Doctorate at The University of Texas.

Griffin is passionate about spirituality and helping the underserved. He loves spending time outdoors and in nature, and he enjoys reading a good book.

Edward L. Littlejohn, Jr., Founding Attorney, Littlejohn Law, LLC
Edward Littlejohn is the founding attorney of Littlejohn Law, LLC serving clients throughout the state of Ohio in real estate and probate administration matters. He believes that everyone deserves unparalleled legal services–especially during difficult times like losing a loved one. He believes that solving complex legal problems is only part of what he and his team do for his clients–the other piece is providing access to information so that his clients can make a well-informed decision. This is why Littlejohn has authored five books and multiple consumer guides.

Littlejohn grew up in Steubenville, a small town in southeast Ohio. He attended Steubenville High School better known as “Big Red” before he matriculated to Capital University and then Thomas M. Cooley Law School located in Lansing, Michigan. Upon graduation, Littlejohn became an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Jefferson County. He quickly learned that his community needed more opportunities and not a better prosecutor. This is one reason why Littlejohn focused on building a business to serve his community. For over a decade, Littlejohn has built his company to serve his community and provide quality jobs for members of his community.

Outside of the legal world, Littlejohn is a martial artist and a small business advocate. He helps small business owners grow their businesses. Littlejohn enjoys helping others live their life to the fullest. But Littlejohn gets the most joy out of spending time with his two children, Kyzlee and Zade, while teaching them about entrepreneurship and martial arts.

Kile Byington, Fiscal Officer, Twinsburg Public Library
A lifelong library patron, Byington began her professional library journey performing story times in the children’s department of her local library and has since worn many hats including tutor, reference associate, and collection development specialist. She has served rural, urban, and suburban libraries with budgets from $250K to $20M. Byington has worked in library administration for more than eight years. Originally from Wichita, Kansas, she has lived in Ohio for more than ten years, two years in the Cincinnati area and the remainder in Brunswick, a short drive from Cleveland.

When not working, she enjoys disc golfing, running, and vintage baseball; Byington has played for the Ohio Village Diamonds for two years, supporting 1860s baseball throughout Ohio as part of the Ohio History Connection (OHC), Muffins/Diamonds organization. Byington is a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and supports cultural retention through beadwork, moccasin making, and crafting other types of tribal and intertribal regalia. Chahta sia, oke. (I am Choctaw).

Byington is supported in her personal and professional endeavors by her family, including two children, Xavier in Tucson, Arizona, and Lexi in Wichita, Kansas, and by her partner Jason, without whom she would not likely have seen the opportunity to move to the number one state in the nation regarding community and governmental library support. Byington holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Akron and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration from Wichita State University.

Kristen Slaper, Director of Law Enforcement Initiatives, Ohio Department of Public Safety (DPS)
As the Director of Law Enforcement Initiatives, Kristen Slaper is focused on supporting law enforcement through a variety of projects geared towards wellness, recruitment, and data sharing. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with law enforcement, prosecutors, and many others in the criminal justice system. Slaper received her BS in Biology from Xavier University, where she discovered an interest in both public service and problem-solving through science.

Slaper began working at the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) in 2006. During her seventeen years with BCI, she was involved in thousands of cases performing DNA testing and serving as a subject matter expert. Notably, she served as a member of the state Sexual Assault Response Training Team, teaching nurses, law enforcement, advocates, and prosecutors about DNA testing in criminal investigations. She was part of the Pike County Rhoden Murder Task Force which received a Distinguished Law Enforcement Group Achievement Award at the 2021 Ohio Law Enforcement Conference for their work in solving the Pike County Murders. Slaper worked as part of the DNA team responsible for eliminating the backlog of sexual assault kits and establishing one of the best DNA testing turnaround times in the country. During her time as the statewide DNA manager, Slaper also focused on cold case investigations as part of the new multi-disciplinary team established at BCI.

Since May of 2023, with DPS, she has turned her focus to first responder wellness and recruitment; bringing awareness of the mental, physical, and emotional needs of first responders as well as working to help agencies increase their pool of qualified candidates and retain the current workforce.

Outside of her career accomplishments, Slaper lives in Hilliard with her husband and three young, active daughters.

Maria Haberman, Vice President – OH External Affairs, American Electric Power (AEP)
Maria Haberman is a government affairs professional with fifteen years of experience working on state policy, regulatory, and political issues. She is the Vice President of Ohio External Affairs for AEP, responsible for all state legislative policies that impact the overall Ohio Market from an electric utility perspective.

In this role for AEP, she is responsible for public policy, community and government relations, as well as building and maintaining external relationships with legislators, consumer groups, community organizations, and other Ohio stakeholders. She leads the company's activities to shape public policies and to coordinate and ensure effective AEP representation on national and state-level industry associations. Haberman also oversees the company’s community involvement role and corporate giving for AEP in Ohio.

Before joining AEP in 2015, Haberman worked in the Ohio Senate for six years as a legislative aide for two of Ohio’s state senators from east and southeast Ohio. During this time, Haberman traveled throughout ten of the state’s most rural counties to develop grassroots policy initiatives. Those areas of focus included energy, transportation, tax, and agricultural matters, in addition to running the senate office and managing district communications.

Additionally, Haberman serves on the Capitol Square Foundation board where she launched the Capitol Conversation series, uniting the statehouse community around events that promote Ohio. Other board memberships include the Ohio Chamber Research Foundation, Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio, Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Foundation Corporate Roundtable, among others. She was the first female Chair of the Ohio Electric Utility Institute. Haberman is also involved in public service, receiving an Ohio Governor’s Appointment to the Public Benefits Advisory Board, responsible for ensuring low-income Ohioans have access to affordable energy.

Haberman graduated from The Ohio State University in 2010 with BAs in Sociology and Women’s Studies, focusing on political contexts and social change.

David Meadows, Economic Development Director, City of Hilliard
David Meadows has served the City of Hilliard, Ohio, as Economic Development Director since 2017. In this role, he leads the city in attracting developers, negotiating financial incentives, ensuring compliance, preparing sites, and creating grant programs to guarantee existing businesses continue to thrive in Hilliard.

Meadows secured $2.9 million in funding to construct HiFiO, a carrier-neutral, thirty-mile, city-owned fiber optic network. HiFiO expands broadband service provider options for businesses, schools, and residential customers.

Meadows also has been instrumental in creating a partnership with Hilliard-based Converge Technologies to develop Hilliard City Lab. This public-private partnership allows the city to support the development and growth of entrepreneurial high-tech and advanced manufacturing companies. In addition to HiFiO access, Hilliard City Lab provides resources such as real-time data analytics, innovation grants, and wrap around business support services. In 2023 alone, this program awarded $450,000 in innovation grant funding, leading to the creation of 391 new jobs, retention of 360 jobs, and capital investments of $74 million.

Prior to joining the Hilliard team, Meadows served as the Economic Development Coordinator at the City of Westerville, Ohio, where he facilitated the city’s strategic plan and developed a business retention program.

He is a graduate of The Ohio State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s in public administration from The Ohio State University John Glenn College of Public Affairs. Meadows is also a U.S. Army Veteran, deploying to Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005 with the 983rd Engineer Battalion.

Eve Mueller, Deputy Director of Communications, Ohio Governor’s Office
Eve Mueller is a visual storyteller who delights in the fact that everyone has a story worth telling. As the Deputy Director of Communications, she’s been telling the story of Mike DeWine’s priorities for more than thirteen years, currently in the Ohio Governor’s Office, and previously, in the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.

Mueller is a trusted communications leader who develops media strategies, manages visual communications, produces video storytelling content, and handles all TV interviews. She has been particularly involved in the storytelling of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio, a free book gifting program for Ohio kids between birth and age 5, which Ohio First Lady Fran DeWine has championed statewide.

Prior to helping to tell Ohio’s story, Mueller worked for twenty-three years as an on-air TV reporter and anchor. Most of her television career was spent in Columbus at CBS affiliate WBNS 10-TV, where her work as the Statehouse reporter earned her an Emmy and a National Edward R. Murrow Award. Mueller also had TV reporting and anchoring roles in Lansing, Michigan; Fort Smith, Arkansas; and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, her hometown. She’s a graduate of Southern Methodist University in Dallas, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast News.

An eternal optimist and aspiring painter, Mueller has two adult children with her husband of thirty-three years, Mark Henson. They live in the Upper Arlington suburb of Columbus with their giant great pyrenees, Penny, and like to hunt for great coffee and unique antiques.

Lynette Thomas, Vice President of Customer Experience & Store Communication and Operations, Lane Bryant (Knitwell Group)
Lynette Thomas is a creative and compelling leader, communicator, and minister. Thomas’s greatest passion is teaching life-changing truths of God’s word and helping women live Christ-centered lives. Community service and leadership have been the cornerstones of her life from a spiritual, personal, and professional vantage point. She believes that people can make a difference by taking the initiative to get involved and lead by example. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Thomas is a native of Franklin, VA, where she attended public schools and later went to Hampton University where she obtained a bachelor’s in communicative sciences and disorders. In 1997, during her tenure at Hampton, she had no idea when she started at Lane Bryant as a part-time stock associate, that her career would catapult into her current position.

Though Thomas has many titles, her most favorite is a helpmate to the “love of her life” – Marc Anthony Thomas (a native of Columbus, OH). They have been married for six years and, when not traveling abroad, reside in Westerville, OH.

Thomas is a well-rounded individual. She is not the type of person who sits passively and waits for something to happen – SHE MAKES IT HAPPEN! She is a leader who leads by example and faces “opportunities” head-on. Thomas is a very courageous individual who does not mind taking on a challenge. Thomas’s motto has always been, “Reach for the stars…the sky is the limit!” She has broken many glass ceilings and continues to excel in her professional and personal life.

Whether she is being a wife, ministering, teaching, adding special elements to a project, or developing leaders and teams, she does everything with a spirit of excellence and with transmissible joy.

Michelle Fowler, Manager of Crash Safety, Transportation Research Center Inc. (TRC)
A proud Ohio native, Michelle Fowler has lived and worked in areas all throughout the state. Born and raised in the suburbs of Cleveland, she learned the value of hard work from her immigrant grandparents, being raised in the house her grandfather built. After graduating from Strongsville High School, she made her way down to Columbus to attend The Ohio State University to get both her bachelor’s and master’s in biomedical engineering. Co-op opportunities during her education allowed her to learn about quality, research, design, and manufacturing engineering at several companies across the state of Ohio. Ultimately, she found her passion for the field of crash safety through her work at The Ohio State University’s Injury Biomechanics Research Center.

After completing her master’s, Fowler started her professional career at Honda Research & Development Americas, Inc., now Honda Auto Development Center, focusing on side impact safety for vehicles designed and manufactured in the heart of Ohio. She has been with TRC since 2018, serving previously as a research engineer and team leader in the center’s Dummy Management Lab before moving to Manager of Crash Safety in 2019. Fowler has spent the last decade committed to eliminating the unnecessary pain and suffering caused by vehicle crashes. She has led several teams in the research and development of technologies that save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce economic costs due to road traffic incidents.

In addition to her management role, Fowler serves on the executive committee of TRC WOMEN (Women Offering Mentorship Expertise & Networking), an organization promoting professional, technical, educational, and personal connections among its members.

Fowler currently resides in Bellefontaine with her husband. They are massive Cleveland Browns fans, being season ticket holders since 2016. Fowler also has a passion for painting, golfing, and home renovation projects.

Ann Donnelly, Project Manager, Small Nation
Ann Donnelly Hamilton joined Small Nation in 2021 as a consultant and project manager after serving 20+ years in higher education. Small Nation, based in Bellefontaine, develops spaces, places, and dreams for small towns and small-town entrepreneurs across the country. Growing up in a village in Miami County, Donnelly followed Small Nation Founder, Jason Duff, as he and his team redeveloped small towns. Her desire to homeschool her two children united with her own passion for small towns and storytelling abilities created the ideal synergistic relationship with Small Nation.

Prior to this role, Donnelly served Ohio Northern University (ONU) in a leadership role on the President’s Cabinet as Executive Assistant to the President from 2011-2019. She served as the Alumni Director and the Campaign Manager for one of the largest campaigns in ONU history. ONU honored Donnelly in 2013 with the Distinguished Alumni Award.

In 2021, Donnelly was the Associate Producer of a feature-length documentary, Heart of an Ideal, working alongside award-winning producer and owner of ThreadPath Media, Bob Dawson. Donnelly published a children’s book, If I Were a Bumblebee, in 2021. The publication made the national public library platform Beanstack’s list of 1,000 books to read to your child before kindergarten.

With degrees in English/Education from ONU and a master’s from the University of Dayton, Donnelly is passionate about lifelong learning. She volunteer teaches at a Homeschool Cooperative Learning program in Vandalia. Donnelly is the vice president of the Ada Library Board and was a longtime member of the Kiwanis Club in Ada, where she and her family reside. She is chair of the Pride of Ada Fireworks and coaches her son’s soccer team. Donnelly serves as a Judge for Ohio’s Distinguished Young Women of Ohio program. Donnelly recently launched an Airbnb in Ada, The Grady House.

Brandon C. McClain, Magistrate and Acting Judge, Dayton Municipal Court
Brandon C. McClain is an Attorney who serves as a Magistrate and Acting Judge in the Dayton Municipal Court, having been appointed in May 2023. Previously, McClain served as the Montgomery County Recorder, having been elected in 2018 and 2020. 

McClain graduated cum laude from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke with a Bachelor of Arts, the University of Cincinnati with a Master of Science, and the University of Dayton School of Law. He also served in the Army National Guard, having achieved the rank of Sergeant.

McClain is admitted to the practice of law in the state of Ohio, as well as the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio and the United States Tax Court. His legal experience varies from being an Acting Judge and Magistrate in the Dayton Municipal Court, to being an Assistant Public Defender in the Montgomery County Public Defender's Office. McClain also serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Dayton School of Law and The Ohio State University.

In recognition of his efforts in public service and dedication to the community, McClain was invited to the prestigious State of Ohio Leadership Institute, received the Huber Heights Military and Veterans Commission Award, the National Association of Social Workers Region 7 Public Elected Official of the Year Award, the Herman Zerger Veteran of the Year Award, the Top Ten African-American Male Award, the Forty Under 40 Award, the University of Dayton School of Law Joseph Cinque Award and has been inducted into the Dayton Bar Association Foundation Fellowship.

McClain has a beautiful wife named Tinisha, a daughter named Tyler, a bonus son named Gabriel, and two Boston Terriers named Vans and Bobby.

Bill Downing, Director of Tax Credit Development, BORROR
Downing serves as the Director of Tax Credit Development at BORROR, a leading central Ohio-based real estate services firm specializing in development, construction, and management. In this role, Downing spearheads the organization’s efforts to preserve and create affordable housing throughout Ohio. The mission of this work is to alleviate challenges facing communities of all types and bridge critical gaps in the local housing system through the utilization of housing tax credits and various community development finance mechanisms in order to provide a quality place to live for all residents. At BORROR, it is not just a motto but a belief that through a pragmatic and curated approach to real estate development, we can deliver products that enhance our communities and create a life better lived.

Prior to joining Borror in 2022, Downing worked for eight years as a principal of Downing Community Advisors (DCA), a premier community development consulting firm serving Ohio communities. In this capacity, his role focused on neighborhood stabilization, blight reduction, and foreclosure remediation strategies which often manifested through capacity building and technical assistance for local community development organizations and public land banking entities. Additionally, Downing worked with various community development financial institutions to provide capital formation strategies and implement housing production programs.

Downing is a graduate of Wittenberg University located in Springfield, OH where he earned his BA in Political Science. He currently resides in the Weinland Park neighborhood of Columbus, OH with his wife, two dogs, and soon-to-be daughter.

Gordon Rooney, Senior Consultant, State & Local Government, Guidehouse
Gordon Rooney is a Senior Consultant with Guidehouse, a global provider of consulting services to the public and commercial markets. Rooney works with state and local governments to solve their most complex challenges, so they may better serve their communities. From 2014 to 2019, Rooney served with the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs in Charleston, SC. His responsibilities included monitoring an annual cultural budget of approximately $1.8 million and serving as a liaison between the Mayor’s Office and entities including the South Carolina Arts Commission, Charleston City Council, and Joint Base Charleston. Prior to serving with the City of Charleston, Rooney spent two years in rural Chiba Prefecture, Japan, where he taught English and about American culture. During his time in Japan, Rooney volunteered with disaster relief efforts after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in the Tōhoku region.

Prior to his time in Japan, Rooney served with City Year AmeriCorps, where he supported students in high need schools in Columbia, SC. His professional experience includes stints with the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, the Texas Association of Regional Councils, and the Texas Senate Committee on Jurisprudence.

Rooney is a member of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition’s Ohio Advisory Committee, where he engages with policymakers on why investments in diplomacy and development help keep America safe and strengthen Ohio’s economy. Rooney is an alum of the German Marshall Fund’s Manfred Wörner Seminar and the Warsaw Security Forum’s New Security Leaders Program. Rooney completed his bachelor’s in government from the University of Texas at Austin and holds a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Michigan’s Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.

Rooney is married to Emily Anne and they have two cats, Birdie and Miso. In their free time, they enjoy finding new hiking trails throughout Ohio.

Delanté Spencer Thomas, Chief Ethics Officer, City of Cleveland
Delanté Spencer Thomas serves as the first-ever Chief Ethics Officer for the City of Cleveland where he provides advice, counsel, and training to the Mayor and a city workforce of over 8,000 employees with regard to Ohio Ethics Law. In addition to building a citywide ethics and compliance program, Thomas assists in overseeing the city’s police reform and accountability efforts.

Prior to joining city leadership, Thomas spent five years as Deputy Inspector General and Ethics Counsel for Cuyahoga County. Additionally, since 2017, Thomas has managed his own private practice and consulting firm, LMP Solutions, LLC, focusing on housing law, organizational and legal ethics, personal injury, and small business consulting.

Thomas is the current president of the Norman S. Minor Bar Association–the premier bar association for Black legal professionals in Northeast Ohio. He also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Cleveland State University Law Alumni Association, where he most notably co-chaired its Annual Recognition Luncheon in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Additionally, Thomas has worked as an adjunct law professor at Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland State University (CSU) teaching various courses.

Thomas is a native of East Cleveland, Ohio. He attended Syracuse University where he earned a bachelor's degree in sport management and a master’s degree in public relations. Thomas then returned home and attended CSU. There, he earned a Juris Doctor degree as well as a second master’s in labor relations & human resources.

Most recently, Thomas was inducted into the CSU College of Law Hall of Fame as the 2023 Leader on the Rise. Last year, he was also listed in 15th Edition of Who’s Who in Black Cleveland. In 2022, the NAACP awarded Thomas with the Rising Leader Award and in 2021, he was featured in Crain's Cleveland Business' 40 Under 40.

Patrick Espinosa, Founder and Managing Partner, Sus Abogados Latinos
Patrick Espinosa was born in Landstuhl, Germany to Colombian parents and has called many places home including: Ohio, California, Florida, Texas, Washington, Colombia, and China. Initially beginning his studies at the University of Washington in 2000, Espinosa took a hiatus from studies to travel the world. His travels took him to many places including Changchun, China and Cartagena, Colombia where he taught English at several foreign language institutes and the Colombian Naval Academy. Espinosa eventually continued his studies in Texas where he received his BBA with a concentration in marketing, graduating cum laude. Wanting to pursue a career in law, Espinosa continued his studies at the University of Miami in Florida and graduated with his law degree and a master’s in business administration. After opening up a successful sports agency in Miami, Espinosa decided to change career paths and entered the world of corporate law and consulting.

Upon his arrival in Cleveland ten years ago, Espinosa decided to help the community and focused his attention on immigration issues. As an immigrant himself and being bilingual, Espinosa understands the issues that many of our underrepresented neighbors face and is in a great position to help those in need. In 2021, Espinosa founded Ohio’s first fully Hispanic and bilingual law firm, Sus Abogados Latinos, where he helps represent the over 150,000 Hispanics residing in Northern Ohio. Espinosa sits on the board of directors of many Cleveland organizations including Greater Cleveland Partnership, The Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association, Global Cleveland, the Northeast Ohio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Borderlight Festival of International Theatre. He is also the president of the Ohio Hispanic Bar Association. Espinosa currently resides in Mentor, Ohio with his wife, Kandace, and their two children.

Ashley Kline, LPCC-S, Chief Program Officer, Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center
Ashley Kline is a dedicated non-profit leader passionate about making a meaningful impact in her community. As the Chief Program Officer at Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center, which is home to the Rape Crisis Center and Battered Women’s Shelter of Summit and Medina Counties, she oversees program operations and evaluation processes across the organization, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services rooted in trauma-informed care and cultural responsiveness for survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking.

With a license as a professional clinical counselor with supervision designation (LPCC-S), Kline specializes in treatment of trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and co-occurring mental health conditions resulting from experiences of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. Throughout her career, she has provided trauma-informed crisis intervention, advocacy, and therapeutic services to survivors, and has led programs tailored to the needs of survivors.

Kline has held leadership roles in numerous community coalitions, task forces, and advisory boards focused on enhancing systemic collaboration to support survivors. She currently serves as a board member for the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence.

She received a bachelor’s degree in applied conflict management and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Kent State University. She has an extensive history as a presenter at national, state, and local conferences providing education to professionals on best practices in working with survivors of trauma and strategies for professional resiliency.

Kline is passionate about providing accessible trauma-informed and culturally responsive services to survivors and is dedicated to ending relationship and sexual violence in our communities.

Dan Wendt, City Manager, City of Vandalia
The Vandalia City Council appointed Dan Wendt to serve as City Manager effective February 1, 2021. City Manager Wendt is the chief executive officer and public safety director, responsible for the day-to-day operations of a municipal organization with 287 full-time equivalent employees and a ~$63 million annual budget. Wendt oversees the day-to-day operations of police, dispatch, fire, and emergency medical services; finance; human resources; water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities; public works; economic development, building and zoning, planning, and engineering services; and community enrichment through the Vandalia Recreation Center, Senior Center, Cassel Hills Golf Course, and a community park system.

Wendt formerly served as the Assistant City Manager and chief operating officer at the City of Fairfield. He also served in a similar role as the Director of Public Safety and Service at the City of Norwalk. Fluent in Spanish, City Manager Wendt served three years in the United States Peace Corps administering community and economic development initiatives in the rural Dominican Republic. Wendt holds a Master of Public Administration from Bowling Green State University and a Bachelor of Arts from The Ohio State University.

Wendt is a Credentialed Manager through the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), a graduate of the ICMA Emerging Leaders Development Program, and the first recipient of the Ohio City/County Management Association (OCMA) Distinguished Early Career Award. Wendt currently serves on the statewide OCMA board as vice president-elect. He is a Certified Labor Relations Professional through the National Public Employer Labor Relations Association and past president of the Dayton Area Managers Association. In 2023, the Vandalia-Butler Chamber of Commerce recognized City Manager Wendt as the business professional of the year. Wendt enjoys hunting and fishing. He, his wife (Laura), and their three children are residents of Vandalia, OH.

Kate Blakley, Senior Manager, External Communications, Westfield
Kate Blakley is a dynamic and experienced corporate communications and marketing leader who understands the power of strategic communication in helping to achieve business goals and solve business problems. With more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, she currently leads the External Communications team at Westfield, a prominent US-based property and casualty insurance company.

In her role at Westfield, Blakley develops and executes strategic communication plans to drive preference and loyalty for Westfield with key stakeholders, primarily independent insurance agents and national brokers. As an experienced and respected thought-leader, she is pivotal in driving outcome-based communication strategies, crisis communications, media relations, cross-functional collaboration, and building strong partnerships across the organization. Prior to her current position, she was the Director of Marketing & Communications at Carousel Works, where she enhanced sales and expanded the company's global presence. Blakley’s well-rounded experience in sales, customer relations, and media management has contributed to her overall effectiveness in driving positive business results.

As a complement to her professional role, Blakley is a strong advocate of creating opportunities and connections for women in the workplace, serving as the co-lead of Westfield's Women's Network Employee Resource Group with more than 500 active and engaged members. She also serves on the board of the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF), Ohio Chapter, an organization created to unite the collective strength of the insurance industry in providing grants, volunteer service and leadership in communities across the state.

Blakley holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with dual majors in marketing and economics from Ashland University. She is also a licensed insurance agent. Outside of work, Blakley resides in Mansfield, with her amazing husband of twenty-seven years, Don, and their daughter Alexa, a student at Kent State University.

Donald G. Meyer Jr., President, Sergeants Home Improvements
Staff Sergeant (SSG) Meyer epitomizes a legacy of service and excellence, spanning military and civilian spheres with over seventeen years of unwavering commitment. His contributions to the United States Army and the Ohio Army National Guard have set a standard of exemplary service.

Meyer's military career saw him deployed to Panama, Ecuador, and Honduras from 1997 to 1999, aiding US Army South Command in peacekeeping efforts. Notably, he served during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2008 and demonstrated exceptional leadership during Battalion Operations from September 2011 to September 2012. His tenure as Headquarters Retention Non-Commissioned Officer resulted in over forty new accessions and a remarkable 75% retention rate.

Transitioning to Alpha Company 237th Brigade Support Battalion, Meyer excelled as a Platoon Sergeant, mentoring over 100 Soldiers. His meticulous supervision ensured soldiers obtained licenses for all vehicles, contributing to their success in Battalion competitions in 2013.

Accolades, including multiple Army Commendation Medals and Joint Service Achievement Medals, underscore Meyer's commitment to excellence.

In the civilian realm, Meyer founded Sergeants Home Improvements LLC in 2012, later co-founding Band of Brothers Restoration in 2014, dedicated to employing military Veterans. His nomination for the 2014 30 for the Future award highlights his dynamic leadership. He received the Emerging Business Award from the Greater Akron Small Business Council in 2015 and served as the Creator and former President of Band of Brothers Homes for Heroes, focusing on housing disabled Veterans.

Relaunching Sergeants Home Improvements LLC in 2016 with a focus on property damage claims, Meyer advocates for homeowners in Ohio. His dedication to duty, professionalism, and compassionate leadership has made a lasting impact on the Ohio Army National Guard and the communities he serves. As a business owner, Meyer engages in diverse roles while championing local causes and fostering Veteran entrepreneurship.

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Columbus, OH – Leadership Ohio, the state’s premier leadership development program that brings together leaders from across Ohio is pleased to announce the appointment of six outstanding individuals to its esteemed Board of Trustees. These accomplished leaders bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to advancing leadership development throughout the state.

The newly appointed members to the Leadership Ohio Board of Trustees are:

Lilleana (Lilly) Cavanaugh | Deputy Chief, Business Solutions & Outreach, Minority Business Development Division, Ohio Department of Development

A dynamic leader in economic development, Mrs. Cavanaugh is instrumental in driving initiatives that promote growth and prosperity for all Ohioans.

Chris Cutter | Partner, Block Bridge Capital

Mr. Cutter, a successful entrepreneur and investor, is an architect of funds, companies, and brands.

Rayshun Holt | Program Director, Beacon of Hope

A leading expert and advocate for fair chance hiring, Mr. Holt helps Ohio businesses incorporate returning citizens into their workforce.

Mikaela Hunt | Chief Communications Officer, Ohio Department of Commerce

A preeminent communications professional, Ms. Hunt is a master of storytelling and strategic communication in the public and private sectors.

Neethi Johnson | Vice President, JPMorgan Chase and Director, Arcbridge Capital

Renowned for her expertise in digital strategy and innovation, Ms. Johnson plays a pivotal role in shaping the digital landscape of the financial sector.

Eric Wobser | CEO, Greater Sandusky Partnership

Mr. Wobser, a dedicated and visionary public servant, has an illustrious track record of municipal management, community development and innovation.

The President of the Board of Trustees, Shon Christy, expressed excitement about the new appointments, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Lilleana Cavanaugh, Chris Cutter, Rayshun Holt, Mikaela Hunt, Neethi Johnson and Eric Wobser to our Board of Trustees. Each brings a unique set of skills and experiences that will undoubtedly strengthen our organization. Their commitment to Ohio and its people aligns seamlessly with our mission, and we look forward to their contributions."

The Executive Director of Leadership Ohio, Dr. Lisa Duty, echoed this sentiment, saying, "As we approach 2024 and beyond, our new trustees will be instrumental in guiding the future direction of Leadership Ohio. We are honored to have these accomplished individuals join our board.”

The new Trustees were elected December 13 along with the 2024 slate of board officers, namely: Shon Christy, President (Shon Christy Media); Stephanie McManus Renda (Neighborhood Strategies), Vice President; Alison Goebel (Greater Ohio Policy Center), Treasurer; and Carrie Adkins (GE Healthcare), Secretary.

To learn more about Leadership Ohio visit https://www.leadershipohio.org.

Applications for the Class of 2024 are currently being accepted.

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Columbus, OH - Leadership Ohio, the state's premier leadership development program fostering positive change through diverse connections, is delighted to announce the appointment of Lisa Much as its new Program Director. With a proven track record in community development and program planning, Much brings extensive experience and expertise to her new role.

Before assuming her current position, Much showcased her exceptional skills throughout the 2023 Leadership Ohio program year, playing a pivotal role in supporting and coordinating programs and events. Previously, she held key positions at the Ohio CDC Association, contributing significantly to advancing statewide community development initiatives. Much's early background in theater uniquely shaped her approach to planning learning experiences, infusing creativity and dynamism into program execution. Her theater experience instilled a keen sense of organization, attention to detail, and the ability to create engaging and memorable experiences for participants.

In her capacity as Program Director, Much will play a vital role in designing and implementing civic leadership experiences that empower individuals to make a positive impact on their communities and across Ohio. Dr. Lisa Duty, Executive Director of Leadership Ohio, stated, “Lisa Much has a gift for empowering people and cultivating inspiration in Ohio’s leaders that has made her a respected figure in our field. We look forward to her contributions in advancing our mission and fostering leadership excellence across the state."

Lisa Much shared her excitement about her new role, stating, "It has been a wonderful experience to be able to help Ohio Leaders see innovation throughout the state. I am excited to have another year engaging in this work."

Much is completing her Masters in Public Policy and Management at the prestigious John Glenn College of Public Affairs, She currently serves on the Steering Committee for Ohio Women in Government and as a Board Member for the National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations. Much will assume her new role at Leadership Ohio effective January 15, 2024.

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To learn more about Leadership Ohio visit https://www.leadershipohio.org.

Applications for the Class of 2024 are currently being accepted.

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On November 18, Leadership Ohio concluded the 2023 program year with graduation ceremonies at Creekside Event Center in Gahanna, Ohio. On this day, 32 graduates were honored as great leadership was recognized across Ohio.

This year’s celebration saw Joseph French, CEO of Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health, selected as the Leader Among Leaders, and OHgo, an Erie County nonprofit, chosen as Most Inspirational. Leadership Ohio Immediate Past President, Nan Baker, was awarded TheKleismitAwardfor Extraordinary Leadership for her three terms of service to the organization.

Joseph French: Leader Among Leaders

Each year, Leadership Ohio honors an individual with its Leader Among Leaders award. This award recognizes that even among the best group of leaders there is often one leader that stands out. The individual bestowed this award, Joe French, was selected by his classmates for this distinguished honor. Selection of French is the Class of 2023’s declaration that he represents the best of their cohort.

Most Inspirational: OHgo

A key development objective of Leadership Ohio focuses on growing leaders’ perspective and how they define the realm of “the possible.” Each year class members are asked to select the most inspirational guest from among the year’s guest speakers. This year’s honoree is OHgo represented by co-founders Christine Boesch and Kendra Faulkner. OHgo operates a mobile food pantry that takes a converted truck into Sandusky’s most vulnerable neighborhoods to deliver healthy food, books, and access to essential services. OHgo feeds tens of thousands of people, directly impacting families with urgent needs.

TheKleismitAwardfor Extraordinary Leadership: Nan Baker

The Kleismit Award is Leadership Ohio’s highest honor. The award is named for Past President Todd Kleismit who previously led the Board of Trustees. Baker was recognized for serving Leadership Ohio for three terms (nine years) during a critical transition period, and most especially for leading the board through the pandemic era.

Leadership Ohio is a prominent organization dedicated to cultivating leadership and fostering positive change within the state. You can become an integral part of its mission of service by nominating an exceptional leader or applying to become a member of the Leadership Ohio 2024 cohort.

To learn more about Leadership Ohio and the application process, contact Dr. Lisa Duty, Executive Director, atlisaduty@leadershipohio.org.

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Columbus, Ohio - Leadership Ohio, the state’s premier leadership development program that brings together leaders from across Ohio is delighted to announce the graduation of the Class of 2023. After an exhaustive selection process and eight months of exploration and inquiry, 32 exceptional individuals have completed the Leadership Ohio Fellowship, now solidifying their status as alumni of this prestigious program.

These accomplished graduates, representing various sectors and regions of Ohio, bring a wealth of expertise and distinguished service in the public and private domains. The Fellowship empowered them to delve deeply into the critical questions, challenges, and opportunities facing Ohio and its residents, demonstrating a dedication to effective leadership and civic engagement.

Lisa Duty, Executive Director of Leadership Ohio, underscored the significance of nurturing effective leadership across Ohio's diverse landscape. "Our Class of 2023 stands as a testament to the strength of vision, innovation, and civility in leadership, and their commitment to collaboration and progress is a source of pride for Leadership Ohio and the entire state."

Upon graduation, the Fellows become a part of the Leadership Ohio alumni network, a distinguished group of accomplished and influential Ohioans. Alumni of the program hold leadership positions in major companies, nonprofits, government agencies, elected offices, and boards throughout the state, making them a powerful force in advancing Ohio's prosperity and growth.

Shon Christy, President of the Board of Trustees, lauded the Class of 2023 for their innovative contributions to Ohio's future. "We are thrilled to celebrate the Class of 2023 as they transition into the esteemed ranks of Leadership Ohio alumni. These individuals represent the best of a future-driven Ohio."

For more information about Leadership Ohio, visit www.leadershipohio.org. Leadership Ohio is currently accepting nominations for the Class of 2024.

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Leadership Ohio Class of 2023

Akron MSA

Frank Favaro (Munroe Falls) Founder, ServeCentric Coaching; The Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation Fellow

Judge David Hamilton (Akron) Administrative/Presiding Judge, Akron Municipal Court

Jacqueline Opal (Akron) Chief People Officer, STV Incorporated

Daniel Sublett, MBA (Wadsworth) President, J.W. Didado Electric

Canton-Massillon MSA

Joseph French, M.Ed. (Canton) Chief Executive Officer, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health

Brook Harless (North Canton) Government Affairs Director, Stark Trumbull Area Realtors Association

Sharon Perkins (Uniontown) Director of Opportunity Development, Clean Energy, The Babco*ck & Wilcox Company

Ryan Schmidt (Massillon) Founder & CEO, SKYCATCHFIRE

Cincinnati MSA

Karl Dostal, CPA, CFP (Cincinnati) Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Cleveland-Elyria MSA

Julianne Bedel (Spencer) Director, Medina County District Library

Robert Girton (Shaker Heights) Partner, Edgewater Capital Partners

Elizabeth P. Maiden (Amherst) Executive Director, Erie County Community Foundation

Chavone Taylor Nash, M.A. (Woodmere Village) Community & Pro Bono Programs Specialist, Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association

LaRese Purnell (Hudson) Managing Partner, CLE Consulting Firm

Clifton R. S. Williams III (Chagrin Falls) Director of Public Affairs, Taft Advisors

Columbus MSA

Michelle Blanton (Circleville) Circleville Mayor-Elect; University Registrar, Ohio Christian University

Stephanie Bosco, OhioCED (Bexley) Executive Director, Lancaster Port Authority

Darrell Butler, P.E. (Dublin) General Manager, Ohio at Burns & McDonnell

Mary Cannon, M.N.M. (Bexley) Director of AmeriCorps, Ohio Commission on Service and Volunteerism (ServeOhio)

Elizabeth Curtis (Delaware) Regional School Improvement Facilitator for English Language Learners, Educational Service Center of Central Ohio

Chad Downing (Columbus) Principal, Downing Community Advisors

Sara Downs (Dublin) Chief Financial Officer, Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT)

Ohilebo Prince Garuba (Columbus) Executive Director, The Ohio Association of Goodwill Industries (OAGI)

Lynanne Gutierrez, Esq. (Columbus) Chief Operating & Policy Officer, Groundwork Ohio

Neethi Johnson, MBA (New Albany) Vice President, Consumer & Community Banking – Product, JPMorgan Chase

Taylor Manahan (Bellefontaine) Executive Director of Services, Transportation Research Center Inc.

Frankie Morales (Groveport) AMI & Support Supervisor, AEP

Diana Welling, M.H.P. (Columbus) State Historic Preservation Officer / Director, State Historic Preservation Office, Ohio History Connection

Dayton MSA

Vanessa Glotfelter, P.E. (Miamisburg) Director of Engineering, Montgomery County Transportation Improvement District

Amy Riegel (Dayton) Executive Director, Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO)

Toledo MSA

Dennis Kennedy (Whitehouse) Commissioner of Urban Beautification, City of Toledo

Sam Melden (Toledo) Chief Communications & External Affairs Officer, Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA)

Contact:

Lisa Duty
Executive Director
Leadership Ohio
lisaduty@leadershipohio.org
614.806.0607

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Columbus, OH September 15, 2023 - Leadership Ohio, a prominent organization dedicated to cultivating leadership and fostering positive change within the state, is pleased to announce the election of Stephanie McManus-Renda (Class of 2019) as its new Vice President of the Board of Trustees. McManus-Renda, a seasoned leader with a track record of dedication and community involvement, assumed the new role effective today. McManus-Renda is the VP of Neighborhood Strategies, a community planning consulting firm.

With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, McManus-Renda brings a wealth of experience in leadership, resource and community development, and public service to her new role.

"Stephanie’s election as Vice President is a significant moment for Leadership Ohio," said Dr. Lisa Duty, Executive Director of Leadership Ohio. “Our organization has a long history of nurturing leadership and building a stronger Ohio, and Stephanie is poised to help accelerate our growth and success. I am certain she will make an extraordinary and lasting impact on our organization." McManus-Renda joins ranks with recently elected President, Shon Christy of Shon Christy Social Media.

Leadership Ohio is renowned for its commitment to identifying and inspiring Ohio’s most seasoned leaders from across corporate, government, and nonprofit worlds who tackle increasingly important work in shaping Ohio's future. To learn more about becoming a 2024 Leadership Ohio Fellow, request more information.

Media Contact: Dr. Lisa Duty

lisaduty@leadershipohio.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Columbus - August 22, 2023 – Leadership Ohio is pleased to announce the election of Shon Christy as its new President of the Board of Trustees, following the resignation of James W. (Jim) Murray. With a proven track record of leadership and dedication to the organization's mission, Christy is poised to lead Leadership Ohio to new heights.

Shon Christy brings a wealth of experience to his new role, including his participation in the program as a 2021 Fellow. His commitment to fostering collaboration, driving positive change, and inspiring others to make a difference has quickly made him a respected figure within the community. “Leadership Ohio has played a pivotal role in shaping leaders who contribute to the betterment of our communities and state," said Christy. "I am honored to have the opportunity to lead the board of this esteemed organization and continue its legacy of cultivating leadership excellence."

The Leadership Ohio community eagerly anticipates the new era under Shon Christy's board leadership, as he continues to guide the organization's mission of nurturing exceptional leaders who drive positive impact in Ohio and beyond.

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COLUMBUS, OHIO - August 2, 2023 - The excitement is building in Columbus as Leadership Ohio gears up to host Homecoming 2023 at the Residence Inn by Marriott Columbus Downtown on Saturday, August 19. This highly anticipated event has been met with overwhelming support from the Leadership Ohio community, with all tickets selling out weeks in advance.

Homecoming is a new but proud tradition that unites alumni across the state to celebrate their shared passion for Leadership Ohio. This year, Homecoming will be even more special with the introduction of the Leadership Ohio Impact Awards. The awards will honor distinguished alumni who have made remarkable contributions to their communities and beyond. The Homecoming Committee has meticulously selected honorees in each of the following categories:

Community Impact Award:

Recognizing alumni who have made a significant positive difference in their communities through their service to improve the lives of others and creating a lasting impact on Ohio and/or its people.

Honoree: Rayshun Holt, Program Director, Cincinnati Works, Class of 2022

Visionary Leadership Award:

Recognizing alumni who have demonstrated exceptional visionary leadership qualities and driven transformative change in their respective fields or industries.

Honoree: Laura Koprowski, CEO, TARTA, Class of 2020

Professional Excellence Award:

Recognizing alumni who have reached a pinnacle of success in their careers, whether through groundbreaking or significant contributions to their field, notable achievements, or exemplary performance that sets them apart in their respective professions.

Honoree: Commissioner Carolyn Rice, Commissioner of Montgomery County, Class of 2021

Distinguished Alumni Award:

Recognizing outstanding alumni who have excelled in all aspects of their lives; it honors alumni who have demonstrated outstanding personal character, made significant philanthropic contributions, and achieved remarkable success in their professional careers.

Honoree: Senator Hearcel Craig, Ohio State Senate, Class of 1998

The Homecoming festivities will include an alumni luncheon, live music, co*cktails, and gift giveaways. This celebration will provide the perfect opportunity for alumni to reconnect, forge new connections, and celebrate the accomplishments of their fellow Leadership Ohio alumni.

Shon Christy, VP of Leadership Ohio and a member of the Class of 2021, expressed his pride in the achievements of the alumni, stating, "Homecoming is a testament to the power of Leadership Ohio and the remarkable leaders we cultivate. We are delighted to honor our distinguished alumni and witness the positive changes they continue to make in the world."

Dr. Lisa Duty, Executive Director of Leadership Ohio, shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming Homecoming, saying, "Homecoming is not just an event; it's a celebration of our shared values and the incredible impact we collectively have on Ohio and its people. I'm thrilled to witness the recognition of our outstanding alumni and their significant contributions to our communities."

The event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Leadership Ohio extends heartfelt thanks to:

Bronze Sponsor: Shon Christy Media

Silver Sponsor: Class of 2021

Gold Sponsor: Clarity HR

Gold Sponsor: In Memory of Shirley A. and James T. Murray, Charitable Fund at ECCF

The executive director and vice president would also like to recognize the dedication of the Alumni Homecoming Committee, which plays a crucial role in this spectacular event. Special thanks to Ugochi Akoi, Mikaela Hunt, and Nate Strum.

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Interested in Leadership Ohio?Sign upfor more information.

About Leadership Ohio

Leadership Ohio is a dynamic and esteemed organization that fosters leadership development, community engagement, and meaningful connections among its alumni. With a strong commitment to making a positive impact, Leadership Ohio members continue to inspire change and transform lives across the state. For more information, please visit www.leadershipohio.org.

Contact:

Dr. Lisa Duty, Executive Director, Leadership Ohio

lisaduty@leadershipohio.org| 614.806.0607

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Columbus, Ohio - July 12 - Leadership Ohio (LO), the state’s premier organization dedicated to fostering leadership development and collaboration among Ohio's leaders, is proud to announce its upcoming Erie County: Sandusky/Huron Session scheduled for July 21-22, 2023. Over 30 Leadership Ohio Fellows from across the state, selected by a competitive nomination process, will attend this new local session. This session will showcase the remarkable transformation and achievements of Erie County: Sandusky/Huron, located on the picturesque shores of Lake Erie.

Sandusky, a community steeped in rich maritime history, has emerged as a shining example of the revitalization of post-industrial cities in Ohio. With a robust tourism industry contributing nearly $2 billion annually to the region's economy, Sandusky has also become synonymous with successful neighborhood improvement strategies, downtown revitalization, and transformation of waterfront public space.

"Sandusky's transformation into a thriving coastal community is a testament to the visionary leadership and collaborative efforts of its residents and local stakeholders," said Eric Wobser LO ‘22, incoming CEO of Greater Sandusky Partnership. "We are excited to partner with Leadership Ohio to showcase our community's achievements and share our experiences in driving economic growth."

Erie County, home to the renowned NASA Plum Brook Neil Armstrong Test Facility and the enchanting Kelleys Island, boasts a wealth of attractions that captivate residents and visitors alike. Notably, Sandusky is also home to Cedar Point, one of the world's largest amusem*nt parks, drawing thrill-seekers from far and wide.

James (Jim) W. Murray LO ‘17, president of Leadership Ohio, of Huron, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming Erie County: Sandusky/Huron Session, stating, “Erie County: Sandusky/Huron exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience that Leadership Ohio aims to foster. We are delighted to bring together Ohio's top leaders and showcase Erie County: Sandusky/Huron’s exceptional achievements in community development and economic growth." Jim W. Murray recently founded the Tiburon Company LLC; a new local real estate investment and development company based in Huron.

In recognition of Sandusky's outstanding accomplishments, USA Today named the city the "best coastal small town" in the United States for 2023, further solidifying its status as a premier destination for residents and tourists alike.

The study of the region is sponsored by the Erie County Community Foundation (ECCF), Shores & Islands Ohio, In Memory of Shirley A. and James T. Murray, Charitable Fund at ECCF; James W. Murray, President, Tiburon Co. LLC, with in kind support from Cedar Point/Cedar Fair. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in lively discussions, network with influential leaders, and experience historical and cultural touchstones such as the Merry Go Round Museum and the Sandusky Underground Railroad.

For more information about Leadership Ohio, visit www.leadershipohio.org. Cities or regions interested in being featured in 2024 are encouraged to contact the executive director of Leadership Ohio.

About Leadership Ohio

Leadership Ohio is a leading organization committed to fostering leadership development, collaboration, and innovation among Ohio's top leaders. Through engaging programs, insightful discussions, and networking opportunities, Leadership Ohio empowers leaders to drive positive change and promote the growth and well-being of Ohio's communities. Nominate a Fellow or apply online.

Contact:

Dr. Lisa Duty, Executive Director

Leadership Ohio

lisaduty@leadershipohio.org

614.806.0607

In April 2023, Leadership Ohio launched the Leadership Circle, its second annual giving campaign. The Leadership Circle presents an opportunity to nurture our collective legacy and support organizational programming.

Our deepest gratitude to our many members of the Leadership Circle 2023. Each contribution, no matter the amount, helps expand and deepen our work.

We appreciate you all - and as promised we wish to individually acknowledge the first twenty to form this year’s circle.

Brandi Weekley
Anthony Staubach
Bhuwan Pyakurel
Horace Highland
Jamie Martin
Wendi Huntley
Emily Keeler
John Helline
Nathan Strum
Donald Bush
Melissa Currence
Susan Noonan
Christian Campbell
Andrew Saneholtz
Deborah Aubert Thomas
Jason Crabill
Eric Wobser
Jocelyn Rosnick
Robin Stone
Joseph Weitz

We look forward to seeing everyone at Homecoming in Columbus on August 19, the third Saturday in August, our new annual date.

Remember, it’s never too late to Join the Leadership Circle!

Columbus, Ohio - Leadership Ohio, the state's premier leadership development program that connects diverse leaders from across Ohio to promote positive change, is pleased to announce the selection of 8 locations for its highly anticipated 2023 program. The cities and regions selected for this year's program include Newark, Toledo, Bellefontaine, Sandusky, Columbus, Akron/Canton, Marysville, and Southeast Ohio.

The selection process for Leadership Ohio's 2023 program locations were chosen based on several criteria. These criteria included the degree and/or intensity of transformation, the strength of the local community, the innovation of local leadership, and the unique experiences and opportunities each location offered.

"We were incredibly impressed with the caliber of each featured location, including several that are new to our program," said Leadership Ohio executive director Dr. Lisa Duty. "The eight locations we selected are a mix of the unique and extraordinary - small towns, appalachian communities, and urban cities - and we are confident that they will provide our Fellows with a range of experiences and insights that will inspire impact in their own communities."

Leadership Ohio's program is designed to engage its Fellows in in-depth explorations of critical questions, challenges, and opportunities facing Ohio and its people. Participants will have the opportunity to connect closely with community leaders, elected officials, and business executives from across the state. Importantly, Fellows will build impactful relationships with other leaders from around the state with goals for lasting change.

"We are thrilled to announce the selection of these eight locations for our 2023 program," said James W. Murray, president of the board of trustees, Leadership Ohio. "Each of these locations has a history, culture, and a set of issues that will equip our Fellows with knowledge and understanding for solving the intractable challenges facing the state."

The List:

[April 21-22] Newark, situated in east-central Ohio 35 miles east of Columbus, is located along the western edge of the Appalachian plateau in Licking County. Newark’s selection is a testament to the significant changes the city has undergone in recent years, including a revitalized downtown area, a thriving arts community, and numerous recreational opportunities. Earlier this year, the National Park Service officially nominated Ohio’s Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks in Newark for inclusion on the prestigious World Heritage list, which recognizes the earth’s most significant cultural and natural attractions. Intel is currently building a $20 billion semiconductor plant in Licking County, marking it the largest economic event in Ohio history.

[May 19-20] Toledo, located in northwest Ohio, is a city with a strong industrial heritage and a diverse economy. The Glass City is home to local gems including the Toledo Museum of Art, the Toledo Zoo, The Toledo Symphony Orchestra and the University of Toledo. The community of more than 30 neighborhoods has made national news by establishing a Metropark within 5 miles of every resident, taking up the charge to make Toledo the most disability friendly city in America, and passing landmark legislation - with Lucas County - to allocate $1.6 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) resources to medical debt forgiveness.

[June 23-24] Bellefontaine, located in Logan County, is a small city with a big heart recognized by Ohio Magazine as one of Ohio’s Best Hometowns. Downtown Bellefontaine’s redevelopment, championed by civic actors like Small Nation, the Chamber of Commerce, Richwood Bank, and a town full of hard working people with a big vision for progress, has been recognized statewide and nationally. Over the last 12 years, Small Nation has purchased and redeveloped 56+ historic buildings and storefronts, opened or recruited seven eateries, and invested over $30 million of private capital in the downtown, turning Downtown Bellefontaine into a best-in-state destination featuring award-winning restaurants and shops. In Ohio’s Most Loveable Downtown, you will find America’s Shortest Street, First Concrete Street, and more exciting destinations.

[July 21-22] Sandusky/Erie County, located on the shores of Lake Erie, is a community with a rich maritime history and a strong tourism industry contributing nearly $2 billion in economic activity to the region annually. Boasting a statewide reputation as a symbol of the revitalization of post-industrial cities, Sandusky has prioritized neighborhood improvement strategies, downtown revitalization, and the dramatic transformation of its Jackson Street Pier into an energetic waterfront public space with dynamic programming. Erie County is home to the NASA Neil Armstrong Test Facility and Kelleys Island, and Sandusky is home to Cedar Point, one of the world's largest amusem*nt parks. A true innovator, Sandusky received national attention for making Election Day a paid holiday by swapping out Columbus Day, one of several initiatives designed to make the city a more welcoming and inclusive community. In 2023, Sandusky was named USA Today’s “best coastal small town” in the United States.

[August 18-19] Columbus, the Capital City, is the 14th largest city in the U.S. It is known for its friendly and open atmosphere (ranked the No. 3 most livable city by Far & Wide 2023) and its vibrant, diverse economy and people. Columbus is home to a thriving arts and culture scene (COSI, Ohio History Connection, National Veterans Memorial and Museum), The Ohio State University, Nationwide Children's Hospital, and numerous corporate headquarters. Leadership Ohio focuses its study on the state capital’s influential and elected leaders, from the Ohio General Assembly, Ohio Legislative Black Caucus, and the Ohio Supreme Court and through statewide leadership of the Offices of the Ohio Secretary of State and Ohio Attorney General. The Capital City session engages with the power players who advocate for issues and people, push through policy proposals, affect popular perceptions, and cause ideological change. As the heart of the heart of it all, Columbus is also host to this year’s annual Leadership Ohio Alumni Homecoming celebration.

[September 22-23] Akron Canton Metroplex, located in northeast Ohio, has 1.2 million people in its combined MSAs and shares connected assets like the Akron-Canton Airport, the I-77 Corridor, and several unique visitor attractions like the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Gervasi Vineyard. Canton shines with startups like Society Brands and Block Bridge Capital (Crypto) as Akron drives global innovation as a center for the world’s polymer industry (Goodyear Company, University of Akron) alongside leaders like Babco*ck and Wilcox and J.W. Didado Electric. Akron recently received $1M to reimagine the Akron Innerbelt known as the "road to nowhere” as it edged out 300 U.S. cities for a $1 million grant in a first-ever federal program helping communities damaged by past racially discriminatory transportation decisions. Investments from the Knight Foundation support cutting edge innovations such as Signal Akron and Akron Civic Commons that are connecting & bringing economically diverse neighborhoods together, while The Lebron James Family Foundation recently launched House 330.

[October 20-21] Southeast Ohio, a rural region of the state, is home to numerous small towns with a strong sense of community and a deep connection to the land. Communities are nestled within the rolling hills of Appalachia, and the region is home to numerous forests, wildlife areas, and state parks (John Glenn Astronomy Park, Hocking Hills). “Little Cities of Black Diamonds” present an arresting view of the historic coal mining towns of the Appalachia region and offers gems such as the Tec*mseh Theater (Shawnee), Black Diamond Distillery (New Straitsville), and the (Nelsonville) Stuarts Opera House and Historic Town Square. A robust civic society is advancing workforce and leadership development (Hocking College, Ohio University), entrepreneurism (ACENet and Rural Action), and closing the region’s philanthropy gap (Foundation For Appalachian Ohio). History and tomorrow live side by side in places like Mount Zion Baptist Church Preservation Society, that is building a future for the Black community of southeast Ohio.

[November 17-18] The Beta District - Dublin, Marysville, Union County and Columbus - is more than a physical location, more than an innovation corridor, and more than a single headline-making project. It’s an ecosystem that provides an ideal platform for innovation. The Beta District is home to Ohio's 33 Smart Corridor, the world’s most unique proving ground – and airspace – for smart mobility technology. Along the corridor lies rapidly growing, top-rated, and internationally recognized suburban and exurban communities where you will find one of the largest concentrations of STEM talent, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and automotive integrators in the Midwest. The #2 area in the U.S. for auto production, American Honda Motor Co. and the Transportation Research Center feature prominently here with 70+ automotive companies, Drive Ohio, FlyOhio, and ODOT support, a $100M investment in smart infrastructure, and a shared vision of the future.

For more information about Leadership Ohio, visit www.leadershipohio.org. Cities or regions interested in being featured in 2024 are encouraged to contact the executive director of Leadership Ohio.

Columbus, OH - Leadership Ohio, the state's premier leadership development program that connects diverse leaders from across Ohio to promote positive change, has chosen Newark, Ohio as the location for the program’s Opening Retreat on April 21-22, 2023. Newark’s selection is a testament to the significant changes the city has undergone in recent years, including a revitalized downtown area, a thriving arts community, and numerous recreational opportunities. Newark is situated 35 miles east of Columbus, located along the western edge of the Appalachian plateau in Licking County.

The Leadership Ohio Fellows, a group of visionary leaders from across the state, will kick-start their eight-month study of Ohio during the opening retreat. The retreat will focus on building strong relationships and foundations for civil discourse and feature The Constructive Dialogue Institute (CDI), a non-profit organization that creates evidence-based educational resources and programming to equip people with skills to have dialogue across ideological differences. CDI will facilitate a session with Fellows to give them strategies to navigate difficult conversations and foster greater collaboration.

Fellows will delve into Licking County, a growing part of the central Ohio region that is anticipated to continue experiencing significant development. The potential for change was accelerated early 2022 when Intel announced it would build two leading-edge processor factories in Licking County. The plants come with a $20 billion investment from Intel expected to yield 3,000 jobs.

Fellows will have the chance to lean into the rich history and culture of the Newark Downtown Historic District - with a tour expected to feature local gems such as the Louis Sullivan Building, The Midland Theatre and Licking County Courthouse.

According to Dr. Lisa Duty, Executive Director of Leadership Ohio, "Newark is a prime example of a community that has transformed itself through vision, collaboration, and strategic planning. We are thrilled to showcase Newark and Licking County to our Leadership Ohio Fellows and highlight the community's successes."

Dan Moder, Executive Director of Explore Licking County (ELC), also commented on the news stating, "We are proud to be a part of the Newark community and excited to share our city with the Leadership Ohio program. It’s an honor to be selected by Leadership Ohio, and we look forward to showcasing the hard work and dedication of the region’s residents and community leaders."

The event will take place on the 16-acre Cherry Valley Hotel (CVH), a unique property that recently underwent a $20 million renovation, with lush gardens that are part of the National Garden Association. CVH is the only hotel in the United States with its own certified arboretum.

The opening retreat in Newark promises to be a memorable experience for all involved.

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For more information on the Leadership Ohio program or the opening retreat in Newark, please visit the Leadership Ohio website at leadershipohio.org or contact:

Dr. Lisa Duty, Executive Director of Leadership Ohio

Email: lisaduty@leadershipohio.org

Phone: 614-806-0607

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Fellows bring a wide range of expertise and distinguished service in public and private sectors

Columbus, Ohio - Leadership Ohio, the state's premier leadership development program that connects diverse leaders from across Ohio to promote positive change, is pleased to announce the class of 2023. After receiving over 120 nominations, and through a competitive selection process, 35 individuals have been appointed Leadership Ohio Fellows. Over the next eight months, these leaders will engage in in-depth explorations of critical questions, challenges, and opportunities facing Ohio and its people.

“This is a distinguished group of accomplished individuals from all across the state,” said James W. Murray, president of the board of trustees, Leadership Ohio. “Ohio needs effective and civil leadership in today’s polarized society, and we are excited to welcome this diverse cross-sector cohort to Leadership Ohio today.”

The Class of 2023 participants come from a variety of industries, including business, healthcare, education, and government. Fellows hail from many corners of the state, and represent a spectrum of ideological viewpoints. This year's class includes leaders from organizations such as Taft Law, Ohio Department of Transportation, JPMorgan Chase, and Goodwill Ohio, and includes a record eight elected and appointed government officials.

Fellows will engage in a series of intensive sessions that cover topics such as the state judiciary, small town resurgence, and civil discourse while being exposed to an influential network of decision makers. Fellows will also develop Ohio Impact Projects taking direct action on a pressing issue or opportunity to benefit Ohio. Importantly, they will build impactful relationships with other leaders from around the state with goals for lasting change.

"We are excited to welcome the Class of 2023 to Leadership Ohio," said Dr. Lisa Duty, executive director of Leadership Ohio. "These distinguished individuals are part of a growing network of change-makers and innovators who are on the leading edge of solutions for a future-driven Ohio.”

Upon graduation, Fellows are inducted into the Leadership Ohio alumni network comprised of accomplished, diverse, talented Ohioans. Leadership Ohio’s alumni reside in Ohio cities big and small, lead major companies and nonprofits, launch small businesses, and serve in government agencies, elected offices, commissions, and Ohio’s boardrooms.

For more information about Leadership Ohio, visit www.leadershipohio.org. Nominations for the Class of 2024 open in Autumn 2023.

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Meet the Leadership Ohio Class of 2023

Akron MSA

Frank Favaro (Munroe Falls) Founder, ServeCentric Coaching, The Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation Fellow

Judge David Hamilton (Akron) Administrative/Presiding Judge, Akron Municipal Court

Jacqueline Opal (Akron) Chief People Officer, STV Incorporated

Daniel Sublett, MBA (Wadsworth) President, J.W. Didado Electric

Canton-Massillon MSA

Joseph French, M.Ed. (Canton) Chief Executive Officer, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health

Brook Harless (North Canton) Government Affairs Director, Stark Trumbull Area Realtors Association

Sharon Perkins (Uniontown) Director of Opportunity Development, Clean Energy, The Babco*ck & Wilcox Company

Ryan Schmidt (Massillon) Founder & CEO, SKYCATCHFIRE

Cincinnati MSA

Karl Dostal, CPA, CFP (Cincinnati) Cincinnati Market Leader, Partner, MCM CPAs and Advisors

Cleveland-Elyria MSA

Julianne Bedel (Spencer) Director, Medina County District Library

Robert Girton (Shaker Heights) Partner, Edgewater Capital Partners

Elizabeth P. Maiden (Amherst) Executive Director, Erie County Community Foundation

Chavone Taylor Nash, M.A. (Woodmere Village) Community & Pro Bono Programs Specialist, Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association

LaRese Purnell (Hudson) Managing Partner, CLE Consulting Firm

Clifton R. S. Williams III (Chagrin Falls) Director of Public Affairs, Taft Advisors

Columbus MSA

Michelle Blanton (Circleville) University Registrar, Ohio Christian University

Stephanie Bosco, OhioCED (Bexley) Executive Director, Lancaster Port Authority

Darrell Butler, P.E. (Dublin) General Manager, Ohio at Burns & McDonnell

Mary Cannon, M.N.M. (Bexley) Director of AmeriCorps, Ohio Commission on Service and Volunteerism (ServeOhio)

Elizabeth Curtis (Delaware) Regional School Improvement Facilitator for English Language Learners, Educational Service Center of Central Ohio

Chad Downing (Columbus) Principal, Downing Community Advisors

Sara Downs (Dublin) Chief Financial Officer, Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT)

Ohilebo Prince Garuba (Columbus) Executive Director, The Ohio Association of Goodwill Industries (OAGI)

Lynanne Gutierrez, Esq. (Columbus) Chief Operating & Policy Officer, Groundwork Ohio

Neethi Johnson, MBA (New Albany) Vice President, Consumer & Community Banking – Product at JPMorgan Chase

Taylor Manahan (Bellefontaine) Director, Advanced Mobility, Transportation Research Center Inc.

Frankie Morales (Groveport) AMI & Support Supervisor, AEP

Diana Welling, M.H.P. (Columbus) Department Head & Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer for Resource Protection & Review, State Historic Preservation Office, Ohio History Connection

Dayton MSA

Vanessa Glotfelter, P.E. (Miamisburg) Director of Engineering, Montgomery County Transportation Improvement District

Amy Riegel (Dayton) Executive Director, Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO)

Toledo MSA

Dennis Kennedy (Whitehouse) Commissioner of Urban Beautification, City of Toledo

Sam Melden (Toledo) Chief Communications & External Affairs Officer, Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA)

Contact:

Lisa Duty
Executive Director
Leadership Ohio
lisaduty@leadershipohio.org
614.806.0607

Leadership Ohio Fellow Biographies

Sara A. Downs, Chief Financial Officer, Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT)

The Director of Transportation appointed Sara Downs as the agency’s CFO in April of 2019 overseeing the Division of Finance and its approximately fifty specialized employees. Downs also has oversight of a budget exceeding $3.0B annually.

Prior to becoming CFO, Downs held management roles overseeing several finance offices and worked in nearly every section of the Division since 2005. She has helped the agency negotiate and enact nine multi-billion dollar budgets and assisted navigating ODOT through a motor vehicle fuel tax initiative through the Ohio General Assembly.

Downs, a native of a small village in Northwest Ohio, holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Ohio Dominican University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from The Ohio State University and Franklin University. Downs was appointed to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Committee on Funding and Finance in February of 2020.

Downs resides in Central Ohio with her family, including her boy/girl twins and doodles.

David Hamilton, Administrative/Presiding Judge, Akron Municipal Court

David Hamilton was born and raised in Akron, Ohio. He is a graduate of Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy and received his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and minors in Criminal Justice and Criminology from the University of Akron. Hamilton earned his Juris Doctorate at Western Michigan University.

Hamilton is a former Prosecutor and Judicial Attorney in Akron Municipal Court. He also served as the District 5 Summit County Councilman. As the Chair of Public Safety, Hamilton started and spearheaded the Summit County Jail Advisory Commission in 2017. Hamilton is also founder of the MY-STARS Summer Youth Enrichment Camp, designed for youth to gain exposure to “real world” skills and experiences needed for success in future planning for school and life. Hamilton also started the Greater Akron Small Business Summit, which is a network for start-up small businesses in Summit County to learn about the resources that are available to them.

Hamilton is currently serving his first term as the Akron Municipal Court Judge. Hamilton also serves as the Administrative/Presiding Judge. Hamilton created COMPASS (Compassion-Opportunity-Mentoring-Purpose-Achievement-Success and Stepping-forward), which is a court-sponsored program geared towards helping young men find their way by providing opportunities that foster personal and professional development. Hamilton is also the co-creator of Raising the Bar, which is a court-sponsored program geared towards creating a pipeline from high school to law school for minority high school students.

Hamilton is a board member of the Akron Zoo. He is also a class 34 graduate of Leadership Akron. Hamilton was awarded the BMe Genius Fellowship, Crain’s Cleveland Business Forty under 40, the Greater Akron Chamber’s 30 for the Future Award, and the Akron Urban League Rising Star Award.

Hamilton is passionate about helping people, and it is his desire to give back to his community.

Chavone Taylor Nash, M.A., Community & Pro Bono Programs Specialist, Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association

Chavone Nash serves as the Community & Pro Bono Programs Specialist at the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association (CMBA). In her capacity, she supports CMBA programs which serve historically underrepresented communities through access to legal supports and other wrap-around social services. In addition, Nash is a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Dayton, pursuing her Doctorate in Education in Organizational Leadership and Policy.

As a native Ohioan from East Cleveland, OH, she attended Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Upon completing her degree, Nash returned to Cleveland. She immediately began work, obtaining her Master’s in Urban Studies from the University of Akron and began working with CHN Housing Partners, formerly Cleveland Housing Network. In her role, she assisted low- to moderate-income families become homeowners. After a few months with the organization, she played an integral role in developing a program to assist CHN residents ages 14-20. The Youth Services Program was developed to host workshops, programming, internships, and scholarships to assist CHN students with post-high school transition.

Her passion for civic engagement, community curation, and student success has been implemented through the services and projects she has aligned herself with. As a community change agent, Nash understands that educational and experiential investments must be aligned with the needs of the community served. She has exemplified this through her participation in numerous community program planning committees including Ohio’s largest High School Battle of the Bands; her service as a board member for local nonprofits focusing on post-high school success; volunteer service work; and navigating collaboration.

In addition to her community leadership efforts, Nash enjoys spending time with her extremely supportive family.

Joseph French, M.Ed., Chief Executive Officer, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health
Joe French has chosen to make his life’s mission to help children understand their today does not have to dictate their tomorrow. He is a life-long advocate for children and strives to help children discover and reach their full potential.

French’s previous roles include: classroom teacher, associate director of a protective child care center, director of an accredited early childhood development center, and executive director of a community-based early childhood initiative serving the Alliance community.

French is an active member of the Stark County community. He believes that you must do everything you can to make the world a better place, especially for children. French is a graduate of Leadership Stark County and serves on the boards of the Stark Library, JRC, Adventure Place Advisory Board, Leadership Stark County, Family Council of Stark County, Stark County Probate Court Advisory Council, Stark County Bar Association Grievance Review Committee, and Governor Dewine’s Early Childhood Advisory Council. French is also an elected councilman for Meyers Lake Village.

French has received several awards of distinction: Leadership Stark County’s 30 Faces of Leadership, Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce’s YStark Twenty Under Forty, Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children’s Director of the Year, Ohio Department of Education’s Irene Bandy-Hedden Early Childhood Leadership Award, and United Way of Greater Stark County’s inaugural Dehoff Emerging Philanthropist Award.

French lives by the motto “we make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.”

French holds a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in Elementary Education, a master’s degree from Ashland University in Early Childhood Education, and a certification from Harvard Business School: Center for Non-Profit Excellence in Strategic Perspectives in Non-profit Management.

French enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, great food, and a good shopping trip.

Taylor Manahan, Director of Advanced Mobility, Transportation Research Center Inc.
Ms. Taylor Manahan currently serves as the Director of the Advanced Mobility team at the Transportation Research Center Inc. (TRC Inc.). As Director, Manahan leads engineering and operations teams in the execution of research and analysis of automated and connected vehicles. Her team specializes in being on the cutting edge of advanced vehicle technologies and strives to bring those technologies safely and effectively to the public roads for consumers.

Prior to her role as Director, Manahan was Manager of Business Development and as such, provided concierge-style customer service to connect external clients to the internal services and solutions offered by TRC Inc. Additionally, Manahan also spent five years as a Research Engineer and Team Leader involved in advanced driver assistance system research and testing as a contractor for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at the Vehicle Research and Test Center.

Manahan received her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Ohio Northern University as well as her MBA from Otterbein University.

Outside of work, Manahan enjoys spending her free time reading, spending time with her partner, Jordan, and their cat, and working out at her local CrossFit gym. Manahan currently holds a Level 2 CrossFit certificate and has a passion for coaching and supporting the members of their gym in reaching their fitness goals.

Amy Riegel, Executive Director, Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio

Riegel was selected to serve as Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio’s (COHHIO) Executive Director in June 2022 after serving as the Senior Director, Housing for managed care organization CareSource. At CareSource, she initiated and led the deployment of $50 million strategic investments in affordable housing across multiple states and helped to launch and replicate Healthy Beginnings at Home, a nationally recognized research study looking at the relationship between housing stability and healthy birth outcomes.

Reigel is an accomplished housing advocate with over 15 years of experience working with nonprofits and governmental entities, including the City of Dayton, where she provided policy leadership and designed programs in the areas of housing development, asset-based community development, community engagement, education, and homelessness. She serves on numerous boards in Ohio and nationally that are focused on poverty elimination, affordable housing, and neighborhood revitalization.

Riegel lives in Dayton with her husband and three daughters. She is a graduate of Wright State University. She loves attending sporting events, especially when her daughters or the University of Dayton Flyers are playing.

Mary Cannon, M.N.M., Director of AmeriCorps, ServeOhio

Mary Cannon is the Director of AmeriCorps with ServeOhio, Ohio’s Commission on Service and Volunteerism. For over a decade, she has worked to creatively engage, support and expand AmeriCorps service opportunities to alleviate some of Ohio’s most pressing education, health, economic and environmental challenges. In this time, Cannon has overseen the allocation of more than $60 million in federal funding to support local communities across the state. As an AmeriCorps alumnus, she has been involved with national service and civic engagement for more than twenty years. In addition, Cannon has served in multiple volunteer and board positions supporting a wide range of community organizations focused on voter education, community development, and student success.

Cannon holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University, a Master’s in Nonprofit Management from Regis University in Denver, Colorado and, most recently, obtained a Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation from American University.

Cannon was raised in Dayton and moved back to Ohio in 2005. She currently lives in Bexley with her husband, son, and two lazy cats. She enjoys hiking, baking, yoga, reading, live music and laughing with her family and friends.

Clifton R. S. Williams III, Director of Public Affairs, Taft Advisors

Clifton Williams works with corporations, small and medium-sized companies, nonprofit organizations, and associations with matters before federal, state, and local legislative and executive branches of government. He advocates for clients in a wide range of policy matters before state legislative and executive agencies.

Prior to joining Taft Advisors, he served for over a decade as a senior level staffer to current Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Marcia L. Fudge in her congressional office. As one of Congresswoman Fudge’s key advisors, he was responsible for managing the staff, advising on both legislative and local issues, and assisting with the development and implementation of the Congresswoman’s strategic legislative agenda and outreach priorities.

Williams, a Shaker Heights native, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Black World Studies from Ohio Wesleyan University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Black Church Studies from Ashland Theological Seminary. Williams currently serves on the boards of Global Cleveland and Engage Cleveland. He is also an active member of his church, Mt. Zion Fellowship in Highland Hills, Ohio and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.

Ohilebo Prince Garuba, Executive Director, The Ohio Association Of Goodwill Industries

Ohilebo Prince Garuba is the Executive Director of the Ohio Association of Goodwill Industries. Before his role with Goodwill, Garuba earned his B.A. from The Ohio State University in Political Science with a minor in Sociology and Public Affairs and a certificate in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School.

During his time at Ohio State, Garuba held many roles around public policy, from being a Policy Fellow at the Center for American Progress to an Economic Policy Fellow at the ICF, a global risk consulting firm in Fairfax, Virginia. Garuba has also worked in the State Legislature and for New Visions Group, which at the time, was the largest minority-owned lobbying firm in the state of Ohio.

As Executive Director for the Ohio Association of Goodwill Industries, Garuba handles all advocacy, lobbying, and government relations activities for the Association's coordinated collaborations between Goodwill members and external partners. Garuba is passionate about workforce development and economic development in underserved communities and is happy as a "Goodwillian" that he gets to help provide the power of work to the entire state of Ohio through his role. Outside his position, he loves reading, photography, and spending time with friends and family.

Michelle Blanton, University Registrar, Ohio Christian University

For almost 15 years, Michelle Blanton has worked at Ohio Christian University. Blanton started working in the College of Adult and Graduate Studies upon graduating with her Bachelor of Arts in Business from Ohio Christian University in 2008. After working in Student Services for eight years, Blanton became the Director of Admissions of the same division. In 2016, Blanton moved to the University Registrar’s Office as Associate Registrar. In this position she worked with students conducting graduation audits and planning the annual graduation ceremonies. From 2019-2022, Blanton served as the Director of Alumni Relations cultivating and stewarding relationships with previous students. Blanton returned to the University Registrar’s Office in 2022 as the University Registrar.

In addition to her involvement at the University, Blanton is very active in her community. She is a 2014 Pickaway Fellow and serves on a variety of local and statewide boards and committees. In 2017, Blanton was elected to Circleville City Council as an at-large member. She has been Chair of the Safety and Finance Committees. Blanton is a 2021 graduate of the JoAnn Davidson Ohio Leadership Institute and is running to be the next Mayor of Circleville in 2023.

Blanton lives in Circleville with Travis, her husband, Elijah, her son, and dog, Roxy. Watching basketball, singing and reading are a few of her hobbies.

LaRese Purnell, Managing Partner, CLE Consulting Firm

LaRese Purnell has 19 years of experience in business management, taxation, and finance. He is the current co-owner of Black Box Fix Restaurant located in Columbus and Cleveland, Ohio and the Managing Partner of CLE Consulting Firm, an Accounting, Tax and Payroll services company located in downtown Cleveland and one of the largest minority firms in Northeastern Ohio. He is a strong innovative financial and strategic leader with instinct and intellect, a formidable combination in the business world. He has served in executive positions, within leading businesses and financial departments within multi-million dollar for-profit and non-profit corporations.

Purnell received his MBA in Finance from the University of Toledo. He is currently pursuing his Master’s in Accountancy in Corporate Taxation from John Carroll University, with an expected completion date of Spring 2024.

Purnell is committed to the community and its residents, so he serves on several boards including YMCA of Greater Cleveland (Chair-Elect), The Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital, Cleveland Public Library Foundation (Vice Chair), and Business Volunteers Unlimited (BVU). He is the current Chairman of the Board for Step Forward Today (formerly CEOGC), the largest community action agency in the state of Ohio, and was recently named the Co-Chair of the National Board of the Economic Empowerment Program of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. based in Atlanta, GA. He is also a proud member of 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Outside of work, Purnell stays busy spending time with his wife Rashaunda, sons (Gaven and Mace), and daughter (Gabbi), serving the community, playing sports, and traveling.

Stephanie I. Bosco, OhioCED, Executive Director, Lancaster Port Authority
Stephanie Bosco currently serves dual roles as the Executive Director for the Lancaster Port Authority and Economic Development Director for the City of Lancaster. Bosco oversees all aspects of economic development for the City of Lancaster, being guided with the mission to bring good-paying jobs to the city. No two days are ever alike.

Previously Bosco served as Economic Development Manager for the City of Grove City. Bosco’s primary responsibilities included creating and implementing a robust business retention and expansion plan. Bosco formed the Grove City Human Resources Committee to engage employers with workforce solutions to build a pipeline to workforce.

Bosco previously served as Assistant Director and Interim-Executive Director for Grow Licking County Community Improvement Corporation where Bosco led site selection visits, designed and implemented social media campaigns and communications designed to attract and retain businesses, and created lasting recognition of Licking County with developer-directed communication. Bosco managed active industrial projects and stood up a formal annual business retention and expansion plan.

Bosco started her economic development career in 2010 as Project Management Specialist for One Columbus, formerly known as Columbus 2020, the regional economic development organization for central Ohio. Among her responsibilities, Bosco managed site selection for region- and state-level leads and assisted local economic development organizations with site-readiness and redevelopment.

Bosco currently sits on boards for the City of Bexley Community Improvement Corporation, Ohio Economic Developers Association, Fairfield 33 Alliance, and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission. In July of 2022, Bosco earned the Ohio Certified Economic Developer (OhioCED) credential.

Before moving to Columbus in 2003, Bosco graduated from the University of Cincinnati. Bosco currently lives in the City of Bexley with her husband and young daughter.

Robert Girton, Partner, Edgewater Capital Partners
Mr. Robert Girton is a partner at Edgewater Capital Partners, a private equity firm dedicated to unlocking potential in smaller performance materials companies in four target sectors: specialty chemicals, life science, advanced materials, and engineered components. Day-to-day, Girton works on originating, executing, and managing Edgewater’s investment opportunities and is currently on the board of Neograf Solutions, Pure Wafer Solutions, Prolytix, GL Chemtech International, and Evantic Performance Materials.

Girton's leadership at Edgewater extends beyond investing. As the chair of the firm's diversity, equity, and inclusion initiative, he is committed to creating a workplace culture that embraces and celebrates differences. His and the firm’s dedication to this cause has resulted in tangible progress, helping to ensure that Edgewater and its portfolio companies are places where everyone feels valued, empowered, and knows the potential impact of their work.

Girton is a committed lifelong learner. He has a B.S. in Corporate Finance from the University of Akron, an MBA from Case Western Reserve University, and a master’s degree in Positive Organizational Development & Change from Case Western Reserve University.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Girton remains grounded and dedicated to his family. He resides in Shaker Heights, Ohio, with his wife and two children, Ava and Theodore, where he hopes to continue to make a positive impact both in the community and in the business world.

Karl Dostal, CPA, CFP, Cincinnati Market Leader, Partner, MCM CPAs & Advisors

Karl Dostal is a Partner and the Cincinnati Market Leader at MCM CPAs & Advisors. MCM is a strategic advisory firm on a mission to help organizations of all sizes and structures through various industries. MCM provides a wide range of services, including traditional tax and audit offerings and advisory services developed to meet the ever-changing needs of our clients and help them reach their short- and long-term goals. MCM is a family of companies, including our partners at Meritrust Wealth Management, MCM HR Solutions, MCM Technology Solutions, and MCM Capital Markets Group, that provide a holistic approach to solving the problems of their clients.

As an expert in tax planning and business advisory, Dostal is able to serve as an unparalleled fixture for his clients. He has been essential in developing a CFO outsourcing practice, primarily in the medical profession. Dostal’s areas of expertise include tax planning, internal controls and accounting procedures, projections, research and compliance, financial statement preparation and forecasts, compensation agreements, merger and acquisition analysis, and general business advisory.

Dostal received his MBA with a taxation focus from Xavier University and his Bachelor of Business Administration at University of Cincinnati. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP).

In addition to serving as a Partner of MCM, Dostal is a member of several professional organizations and has received awards as a result for his dedication to the profession and his clients.

Jacqueline Opal, Chief People Officer, STV Incorporated

As STV’s Chief People Officer, Jacqueline Opal drives and executes the organization’s human resource strategy in support of the company’s overall business plan and its vision of creating a winning employee experience to attract, retain and develop talent. She also serves on STV’s executive committee. Opal has more than twenty years of operations and human resources (HR) experience in complex organizations, including in the architectural engineering and construction (AEC) industry and at a Fortune 500 company.

Opal joined STV after serving as Chief People Officer at a global leader in energy and environmental technologies and services for the power and industrial markets. Her expertise spans all facets of strategic human resources including compensation, benefits, talent acquisition and talent management, and employee and labor relations. She has an extensive background in supporting merger and acquisitions including human resources due diligence and post-acquisition integration efforts.

She has been an active supporter of the business community, including serving on the Team Northeast Ohio Talent Development Council, a Development Equity Council with key diversity and human resources leaders, and as a volunteer with the United Way and for other charitable causes and organizations.

She holds both a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Service Administration and an MBA from the University of Central Florida. She also earned Green Belt Six Sigma Certification.

Before moving to Ohio at the beginning of 2016, Opal lived and worked in central Florida. She enjoys reading, running, skiing, and spending time with family and friends, including her two children Jacob and Riley.

Neethi Johnson, Vice President, Consumer & Community Banking – Product, JPMorgan Chase

Neethi Johnson currently works in Digital for JPMorgan Chase. Her team’s work enables over 15 million customers to connect to money movement and personal finance apps like PayPal, Venmo, Mint, etc. Johnson is a double graduate of The Ohio State University, most recently receiving her MBA from the Fisher College of Business. She was most recently named to Columbus Business First’s 2022 ‘40 Under 40,’ Columbus CEO’s ‘Future 50’ list, and Columbus Young Professionals’ ‘Next Up Columbus’ cohort. In 2020, she was awarded The Ohio State University “William Oxley Thompson” young alumni award for her career and civic achievement and currently serves as a member of the Columbus Leadership Council.

Prior to business school, Johnson worked as Director of Business Development for Access Ohio, Ohio’s largest independently-owned mental and behavioral healthcare agency. She currently serves as President of Student Success Stores, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free-of-cost hygiene items, school supplies, food, and clothing to students in need throughout Central Ohio.

Johnson was born in India and grew up in Dublin, Ireland before moving to the United States with her family. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, cooking, and exploring Columbus.

Elizabeth Pongracz Maiden, Executive Director, Erie County Community Foundation

Elizabeth Maiden came to Sandusky, Ohio to serve as the Executive Director of the Erie County Community Foundation (ECCF) in 2016. During her tenure, she has doubled the Foundation’s assets to nearly $37 million, worked with donors to create over 50 new funds, and led a $900,000 transformation of ECCF’s permanent home in a downtown nonprofit center. Maiden is most proud of ECCF’s work during COVID supporting other nonprofits who ramped up their work to feed and care for our most vulnerable neighbors. In recognition of her efforts, she was awarded the 2021 Visionary Leadership Award from the Erie County Economic Development Corporation.

Maiden, a graduate of Heidelberg and Case Western Reserve Universities, has devoted her career to the nonprofit and philanthropic sector. After stints at the American Red Cross and Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio, she worked for Nordson Corporation in their Foundation and the Community Foundation of Lorain County. Her role as President/CEO of Leadership Lorain County tapped into her desire to help nurture future leaders and encourage all to serve through community volunteerism, nonprofit board appointments, or elected office.

Maiden brings elements of her leadership development interest to her work at ECCF by serving as convener, advocate, and advisor to Erie County nonprofit directors. She currently serves as Governance Chair and Rebuilding Committee member for the Sandusky State Theatre, a landmark that was destroyed by a storm in 2020 and is in the midst of a $30 million rebuilding campaign. Her past board service includes Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio and the Oberlin Center for the Arts. A classically trained singer, Maiden attempts to find time in her life for music. She and her husband, Warren, reside in Amherst.

Brook Harless, Government Affairs Director, Stark Trumbull Area Realtors

After Brook Harless retired from the Army, she graduated from several leadership academies, including the Stark County Signature Program, Stark County Government Leadership Academy, Stark County Citizen Police Academy, American Legion Extension Institute, and Grassroots Leadership Academy Level I and II. She holds two Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in English and History and an associate’s degree from Central Texas College.

Harless was inducted into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame and the YWCA Women’s Hall of Fame. She is a recipient of Stark County's 20 under 40, United Way’s Volunteer of the Year, and Army Achievement Medals. Most recently, she was named Ohio's Mother of the Year and National Military Mother of the Year. Harless works tirelessly on behalf of her community as the Veteran and Community Liaison for Arrow Passage Recovery, Concerned Veterans of America’s Strike Team Leader, Rotary Club of Plain Township Past President, Military Women Across the Nation Executive Board, American Red Cross Services to Armed Forces caseworker and Disaster Action Team member, Ohio Veterans Coalition Co-Chair and on the Stark County Veterans Task Force. Harless’ volunteerism extends to the community at large through both the American Red Cross and Stark County Hunger Task Force Executive Board of Directors, N. Canton Chamber Board of Directors, Plain Twp. Historical Society, and the Coalition of Large Ohio Urban Townships Executive Committee.

She brings a background of public policy and political experience by not only being a Plain Township Trustee but as a citizen, working side by side to advocate priorities on pending legislation and educate elected officials and key stakeholders that affect our communities as the Government Affairs Director for Stark Trumbull Area Realtors, all the while raising her 3 boys: Mason, Brantley, and Weston with her husband, Steve.

Darrell Butler, P.E., General Manager Ohio, Burns & McDonnell

As General Manager of Burns & McDonnell’s Ohio offices, Darrell Butler leads a team of over 150 engineers, architects, designers, and environmental professionals. The Ohio offices serve the energy, water, commercial, and industrial industries supporting critical infrastructure projects in the region and beyond. He oversees operations, staffing, sales, marketing, financials, and quality control across all business units. He is also responsible for directing philanthropy and building the brand in the region. In addition, Butler currently serves as the President of the Columbus Association of Blacks in Energy and a board member of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Executive Challenge.

Butler, a native of Bedford Heights, OH, holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Washington University in St Louis. He is a registered Professional Engineer and a Certified Project Management Professional.

Prior to relocating back to Ohio in 2017, Butler held several roles within Burns & McDonnell including engineering design, construction oversight, project and program management, business development, and department management across several industries.

Butler is married to wife Jackie and has three very active boys (Benjamin, Oliver, and Miles). Butler resides in Dublin, Ohio and enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Ryan Schmidt, Founder & CEO, SKYCATCHFIRE

Ryan Schmidt is the founder and CEO of SKYCATCHFIRE, a web and app development studio headquartered in Canton, Ohio with employees in four states. He graduated in 2005 from Perry High School in Massillon and bypassed college to start SKYCATCHFIRE in 2009. He’s responsible for the company vision and leads new business efforts while working closely with the team to develop software that solves problems for companies both locally and across the country.

Schmidt is most interested in building creative software solutions. His unique combination of business acumen and technical expertise enables him to distill problems into objectives that can be accomplished through software. By working with many different types of businesses, Schmidt has experience across a wide array of industries.

Today Schmidt lives in Massillon, Ohio with his lovely wife Jessica and their three children (Caitlyn, Emily, and Zane) who keep them busy with sports, horseback riding, and band. He’s a member of Entrepreneurs’ Organization Cleveland, Hampton, and serves on the board of the United Way of Greater Stark County. Outside of work, Schmidt is interested in electric vehicles, cryptocurrency, home automation, grilling, and Cleveland sports.

Julianne Bedel, Director, Medina County District Library

As Director of the Medina County District Library (MCDL), Julianne Bedel is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all in Medina County by empowering individuals to be lifelong learners. Bedel received her Bachelor of Arts in Business and Organizational Communication from the University of Akron and her Master’s of Library and Information Science from Kent State University. She is currently an Ohio Library Council (OLC) certified public librarian.

Bedel has worked in various library roles since her youth. Initially a Student Assistant at her neighborhood branch of Akron/Summit County Public Library, she progressed through support staff roles and eventually moved to the Wadsworth Public Library as Outreach Services Manager where she learned to drive a bookmobile. She later spent more than a decade as Director of the Barberton Public Library where she developed a great relationship with the Board of Trustees, shepherded several renovation projects, and coordinated two successful levy initiatives. She joined MCDL in 2018 as the Assistant Director and was named Director in February 2020...just in time for the pandemic.

Bedel believes part of the strength of Ohio’s public libraries comes from regional and state-wide cooperation. She was elected by OLC members to their Board of Directors through 2025. Cleveland Public Library implemented a return on investment (ROI) study on its CLEVNET consortium in 2022. The study found that they are supplying an astonishing 19:1 return on investment for patrons. Bedel has been active at CLEVNET member libraries for many years and was elected to serve on the CLEVNET leadership panel through 2024.

An Akron native, Bedel currently lives with her husband, Michael, in Spencer Township with an assortment of horses, dogs, and cats.

Dennis Kennedy, Commissioner of Urban Beautification, City of Toledo

Dennis Kennedy is accountable for the delivery of public services which have a direct impact on the quality of life for city of Toledo residents. He oversees the programming and strategies for maintenance on all city owned parcels, platted green spaces, residential properties, as well as public right-of-way spaces, streetscapes, and demolition work. Kennedy was appointed by Mayor Michael P. Bell in 2012 as the Manager of the Division of Code Enforcement. In 2018 he was appointed by Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz as Commissioner of Code Enforcement, and most recently, was appointed as the Commissioner of Urban Beautification in 2021.

In addition to his servant leadership for the city of Toledo, Kennedy has served as a board member of Keep Toledo/Lucas County Beautiful, with leadership on the Executive Committee as the Chair of the Board from 2020-2022, and Vice-Chair from 2018-2020. He is a graduate of the International City/County Management Association’s Professional Development Academy in 2021, and was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout by the Boy Scouts of America in 1999. He was recognized by Keep Ohio Beautiful with a Civic/Non-Profit Organization Award for the Clean Toledo Recycling Program, with which he played, and continues to play, a key role in the development and implementation of this annual program for Toledo residents.

In his free time, Kennedy enjoys traveling and recreational running. He has completed fifteen (15) marathons, countless half-marathons and various other races, and is a three (3) time ultra-Ragnar finisher. He is a University of Cincinnati and University of Toledo alumni, and resides in northwest Ohio with his wife Casey and two (2) daughters.

Vanessa A. Glotfelter, P.E., Director of Engineering, The Montgomery County Transportation Improvement District

Vanessa Glotfelter currently serves as the Director of Engineering for the Montgomery County Transportation Improvement District (MCTID). MCTID is engaged with projects at the request of other Montgomery County governments to improve safety, increase mobility, and build connectivity in local communities, while stimulating economic development and enhancing the quality of life throughout the region.

Glotfelter received her Bachelor’s of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Cincinnati and is a registered Professional Engineer in Ohio. With 20+ years in the architectural/engineering industry, Glotfelter has experience in transportation design, project development & execution, strategic planning, business development, talent recruitment, mentoring and management. She has performed roadway design projects for clients including the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and other municipal and federal agencies.

Currently residing in Miamisburg with her husband Dave and two sons, Glotfelter is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the National Society of Professional Engineers, as well as a member of the Built Environment Advisory Board for Sinclair College. In addition to being recently elected as Chair of the Miamisburg Planning Commission, she is Past-President of the Dayton Society of Professional Engineers, and she chairs the Executive Women’s Council for the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce.

Chad Downing, Principal, Downing Community Advisors

Chad Downing is a partner in the family-owned and operated community and economic development consulting firm, Downing Community Advisors (DCA). After graduating from Wittenberg University, Downing had the opportunity to join forces with his father to create a consulting firm to work with small- to medium-sized communities in Ohio facing housing, community, and economic development challenges from the Great Recession. In doing so, Downing followed in the footsteps of his family to work in roles to serve the communities in which we live and work and the motto of his alma mater, “having light we pass it on to others.”

Since forming DCA, Downing has worked across Ohio with a focus on Western Ohio. With an emphasis on working with land banks and community improvement corporations, Downing has spent his working career supporting communities struggling with vacancy, blight, and distressed real estate. A primary client for DCA over the past ten years has been the city of Trotwood and the Trotwood Community Improvement Corporation (TCIC). In 2019, DCA was hired to serve as the Executive Director of the TCIC, under Downing’s direction, overseeing all economic and community development activities for Trotwood. Some other communities and non-profits DCA has served include Allen County, Lima, Riverside, Marion, and LADD.

Downing is also proud to serve on the “Friends of Aullwood” board of directors, which supports the Aullwood Audubon Nature Center & Farm in north Montgomery County.

Downing received a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with minors in East Asian Studies and Geography from Wittenberg University (2013) in Springfield, Ohio.

Downing, a native of Wapakoneta, Ohio, currently resides in Columbus, where he enjoys spending time with family and friends, working in his pottery studio, playing on an amateur soccer team, and staying active with outdoor activities.

Elizabeth Curtis, Regional Facilitator of School Improvement for English Language Learners, Educational Service Center of Central Ohio
Elizabeth Curtis has worked in public education for seventeen years, having most recently served as the District English Language (EL) Coordinator for Pickerington Local Schools. In this role she oversaw the district’s K-12 EL programming including, but not limited to, compliance, administration, family engagement, managing Title III and immigrant budgets, data and assessment, EL educational technology, and professional development of staff. Curtis also has worked in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools in Florida. She has served as a classroom teacher, International Baccalaureate coordinator, educational consultant for an international organization, and gifted coordinator.

Curtis holds a bachelor's degree in International Business, a Master’s in Public Administration and a Master’s in Educational Leadership.

Curtis is married to husband Ryan, has three children (two sons and a daughter - Sebastian, Liam, and Sophia) and her nephew (Chris). She also has two shih tzu’s (Ollie and Dexter).

Curtis resides in Delaware, OH, and enjoys the outdoors, traveling, great food, art and spending time with her family and dogs.

Sharon Perkins, Director of Opportunity Development, Clean Energy, The Babco*ck & Wilcox Company

Sharon Perkins is the Director of Opportunity Development for Clean Energy at The Babco*ck & Wilcox Company (B&W), a global leader in decarbonization, energy and environmental technologies and services for the power and industrial markets. Utilizing her 18 years of experience with B&W, she leads the process from opportunity identification through booking, ensuring appropriate win strategies are set and followed while evaluating the overall pipeline to ensure financial success. She is also at the forefront with the team bringing new and exciting decarbonization technologies to market. Perkins leads the Women’s Employee Resource Group (ERG) as the current chairperson at B&W, an employee-led group aimed to connect, empower and inspire women within the organization, while bringing awareness to the need for diversity, equity and inclusion as it relates to business success.

Perkins holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Clarkson University (Potsdam, NY) and an MBA in International Business from the University of Akron. When not working, Perkins enjoys time with her husband and three children - Samuel (8), Alexis (6), and Elizabeth (6). Watching football (Go Bucks!), Disney, running, riding the Peloton, singing and reading are her current favorite hobbies.

Lynanne Gutierrez, Esq., Chief Operating & Policy Officer, Groundwork Ohio

As Chief Operating & Policy Officer, Lynanne Gutierrez provides organizational, financial and resource development, operations, human resource, and staff management leadership. Gutierrez executes Groundwork Ohio’s strategic vision including the implementation of Groundwork’s policy agenda, priorities, and strategies through effective external relations, communications, advocacy, and research. A nonprofit leader and early childhood policy expert, she oversees the implementation of the organization’s policy agenda in consideration of best practices, data analysis, family voice, stakeholder and coalition engagement, strategic communications, and Ohio’s political landscape. During a period of incredible growth at Groundwork, Gutierrez has built and supported foundational infrastructure for the organization including the Ohio Early Childhood Race and Rural Equity project, the Ready, Set Soar Ohio Coalition, the Early Childhood Data Dashboard, Groundwork’s three “centers of excellence” focused on early learning, maternal and young child health, and family voice, and the organization’s transition to a standalone nonprofit. Her work is focused on building a movement that prioritizes the needs of every young child in the state.

Gutierrez previously worked for Voices for Ohio Children. Prior to her public policy work, Gutierrez was in private law practice for five years. She focused on child and family law, serving some of central Ohio’s most vulnerable children and families. It was during this time that it became clear to her that to best serve children and families, more emphasis must be placed on prevention and systemic change. Before becoming an attorney, Gutierrez served as a Senior Legislative Aide in the Ohio Senate. Gutierrez has a bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University and a Juris Doctorate from Capital Law School.

Gutierrez lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband, Anthony, and two young boys, Gabe (4) and Arlo (1) who are the preeminent early childhood experts in her household.

Sam Melden, Chief Communications and External Affairs Officer, Toledo Regional Transit Authority

Sam Melden serves as Chief Communications and External Affairs Officer at the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA). In this role Sam is proud to work with a dynamic team of transit professionals who are dedicated to transforming TARTA in order to provide the level of transit access Toledo area residents deserve.
In addition to his role at TARTA, Melden also serves as a member of Toledo City Council. Elected in 2019, Melden represents the citizens of District 5 on Toledo City Council, and also serves as the Chair of the Streets, Public Service, and Utilities committee. Melden’s role on Council, as well as his work at TARTA, are rooted in a deep desire to serve his community. For many years prior, this dedication to community was seen in his role in various non-profits throughout Toledo. From food insecurity to leadership development; healthcare to disability rights, Melden has been fortunate to serve in many different roles furthering the common good.

Melden holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from The University of Toledo. He and his wife Lindsey stay busy with their three children (13, 11, & 7), supported by an incredible group of close friends and family nearby. When he isn’t working, or spending time with the people he loves, Melden would rather do nothing more than enjoy a game he has played for over 25 years: golf. And, like almost anything else, when he is going to golf it needs to be accessible, local, and meaningful. So, he prefers to play on Toledo’s oldest municipal course, and in fact the oldest public course west of New York City, Ottawa Park Golf Course.

Diana Welling, M.H.P., Department Head & Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer for Resource Protection & Review, State Historic Preservation Office, Ohio History Connection

Diana Welling has worked in Historic Preservation for over twenty years in Ohio. Since 2016 she has overseen the administration of the Resource Protection & Review Department at the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) as the Department Head & Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer. In her role at SHPO, she works with state and federal agencies as well as the public to help advocate for the preservation of significant cultural resources throughout Ohio.

Prior to working at the Ohio History Connection, Welling worked as an Architectural Historian and Project Manager for Lawhon & Associates, Inc. and has owned her own historic preservation consulting firm. Prior community involvement includes the Childhood League, the Columbus School for Girls Alumnae Board, and she served on the Uptown Westerville Review Board.

Welling holds a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University and a Master’s of Heritage Preservation from Georgia State University in Atlanta. A Columbus native, Welling currently lives in Westerville with her husband, Mark, and their three kids (Luke, Henry & Caroline).

Frankie Morales, Supervisor AMI & Support, AEP OHIO

As Supervisor of AEP Ohio, Frankie Morales leads a group of analysts on the adoption of smart technology throughout AEP’s service territory. Morales and his team use advance data to help make operational decisions that help with the overall customer experience.

Morales received his B.S. in Business Management from Ohio Dominican University.

Morales was born and raised in Long Beach, California and moved to Ohio when his father retired from the Army. Outside of work, Morales spends all his time with his wife and four kids. Morales is a volunteering dad that helps at his kids’ school whenever possible. When Morales gets free time, he enjoys playing fantasy football and reading.

Frank Favaro, President, ServeCentric Coaching

Frank Favaro is an entrepreneur, business coach, and President of ServeCentric Coaching in Munroe Falls, OH.

At the beginning of 2021, Favaro left his career as one of the nation's top Account Executives in the mechanical contracting industry to start his own consulting business. With no customers, money, or consulting background, Favaro has become the go-to customer experience consultant in the mechanical industry. Favaro serves the Mechanical Contractors Association of America and is the Customer Experience (CX) Educator for the National Education Initiative. In addition, Favaro was named 2022 CX Coach of the Year at the world-renowned Customer Service Revolution Conference.

Favaro specializes in working with companies to teach and coach the systems utilized by world-class businesses such as The Ritz Carlton, Chik-fil-A, and Starbucks to help them raise the bar and set the standard in customer experience. He is also a speaker and customer experience facilitator for the National Education Initiative, which supports The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) and Canada.

Favaro serves approximately 2,600 firms' unique needs in heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, plumbing, piping, and mechanical service. In addition to his coaching business, Favaro hosts The People Business podcast, which focuses on improving connections and relationships personally and professionally.

Favaro recognizes the hurdles businesses are up against and is committed to helping them win by growing and investing in the customer experience. Favaro was an Ohio State wrestling finalist and captain of the 1996 state and national championship Walsh Jesuit Wrestling team. Favaro uses those experiences to help his clients go to the next level.

Dan Sublett, President, J.W. Didado

Dan Sublett is the President of J.W. Didado. He was newly promoted as president in 2022.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil and Construction Engineering from Youngstown State University in 2007 as well as a Master of Business Administration degree from Malone University in 2013. In addition to his formal education, Sublett also holds certifications as a Project Management Professional and Engineer in Training (EIT). In 2014, he completed the Civil Engineer Officer Course at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio.

Sublett began his career working for a large investor-owned utility where he developed his foundational knowledge of electrical infrastructure design and construction. After five years working directly for a utility, he took on the role as a lead project manager for a global engineering, procurement, and construction contractor. In this position, he led many high-profile projects involving large renewable developers as well as high-profile clients such as Google and The University of Arizona.

He joined J.W. Didado in 2013 as a project manager, overseeing a portfolio of work in excess of $200M annually. Throughout his career with J.W. Didado, he has provided leadership and support for the company’s growth and success.

In addition to his professional responsibilities, he is a Captain in the Ohio Air National Guard. He has served in various leadership capacities for nineteen years in the military as both an enlisted member and officer. During this time he has been a part of numerous overseas missions in different capacities which has contributed to the development of his leadership skills and growth.

In his spare time, Sublett enjoys time with his family as well as traveling, hiking, golfing, working on outdoor construction projects and coaching T-Ball and soccer.

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Senate Bill 288, the “criminal justice omnibus bill” passed the Ohio General Assembly and was signed into law by Governor DeWine on January 3. One key provision included changes to Ohio’s Earned Credit process which was the focus of a 2022 Leadership Ohio Fellows’ Ohio Impact Project (OIP) led by Rachel Gagnon, Rayshun Holt, Jocelyn Rosnick, Bryan Stewart, and Hillary Stewart.

Earned Credit allows incarcerated individuals to earn days off their prison sentence if they participate in or complete educational, substance abuse and other programming. SB 288 nearly doubled the amount of time a person can earn off their total prison sentence –increasing the cap from 8% to 15%. It also increased the amount of credit available from one day to five days per month of participation for most convictions. Additionally, SB 288 allows the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction Director to authorize “any other constructive program developed by the department of rehabilitation and correction with specific standards for performance by prisoners.” Our OIP research revealed that access to Earned Credit was limited and there were stark differences in access across prisons. We believe this expanded authority may help ease differences across facilities.

You can read our fellows’ research in full: bit.ly/earnedcredit

For more information about Leadership Ohio or to apply to become a 2023 Fellow,please visit https://www.leadershipohio.org/apply-today-1.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Columbus, Ohio. Leadership Ohio is pleased to announce the appointment of Jocelyn Rosnick, ESQ and Chrissy Myers as 2023 ambassadors for the organization.

Jocelyn Rosnick is Policy Director of the ACLU of Ohio where she oversees development and execution of legislative, administrative, and public education policy efforts on everything from voting rights to criminal justice and LGBTQ rights. She has a strong track record of leadership across issues and a passion for free speech.

Chrissy Myers is the CEO of Clarity HR and AUI who provide peace of mind by simplifying the complicated world of insurance and HR for small businesses. She has played a vital role in community initiatives advocating for mental health awareness to address burnout in the workplace.

As ambassadors, Rosnick and Myers will represent Leadership Ohio and engage closely with the incoming cohort of Leadership Ohio Fellows. Both will provide strategic counsel and support for the development of the next generation of Ohio Impact Projects driven by Leadership Ohio Fellows.

"We are privileged to welcome Jocelyn Rosnick and Chrissy Myers as ambassadors for Leadership Ohio," said Dr. Lisa Duty, Executive Director. "Their commitment to leadership for civic impact make them invaluable assets to our organization and the state of Ohio. We are confident they will inspire excellence throughout the 2023 program year.”

"I am excited to have Jocelyn and Chrissy serve as ambassadors," said Jim Murray, President of the board. "Their leadership experience and enthusiasm for strengthening Ohio will be critical as we seek to develop and support the next cohort of esteemed Leadership Ohio Fellows."

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Leadership Ohio is a non-profit organization that provides civic leadership development opportunities through a competitive Fellowship program. It is the state's first and most prestigious statewide leadership development program, founded in 1992. Success in our mission creates a unifying movement of diverse, connected leaders who make Ohio the best state to live and work.

For more information about Leadership Ohio or to apply to become a 2023 Fellow,please visit www.leadershipohio.org.

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Columbus, OH – Leadership Ohio announced the Board of Trustees has unanimously elected James W. Murray, Managing Attorney at Murray Co., LPA and President & Founder at Tiburon Company LLC as President of the board, and Shon Christy, President of Shon Christy Social Media, as Vice President. The board celebrated Nan Baker who completed her term as President and will continue service to the board in the office of Immediate Past President.

Both Murray and Christy will adopt their new roles as Executive Director Dr. Lisa Duty begins her fifth year at the helm of the organization's turnaround. The nonprofit will launch a new strategic planning process in 2023, creating a blueprint for the future of Ohio’s leadership.

"Jim and Shon have well-earned reputations as respected and visionary leaders with deep connections to Ohio. I look forward to their partnership which will ensure our organization retains its ability to lead with imagination, innovation and integrity," said Duty.

"Leadership is vital to the long-term prosperity of Ohio citizens and plays an increasing role in solving some of the greatest challenges facing society," said Murray. "It is a privilege to serve as board President, and reaffirming our commitment to the betterment of all Ohioans."

"Leadership Ohio is widely respected for its unique ability to convene key stakeholders and raise knowledge and the willingness to address important challenges across the state," said Christy. “I look forward to supporting our continued growth and impact in 2023 and beyond.

Murray and Christy Are Joined on the Executive Committee by Several Fellow Officers:

Treasurer - Alison Goebel, Ph.D., Executive Director, Greater Ohio Policy Center

Assistant Treasurer - Carrie Adkins, Executive Director, GE Healthcare

Secretary - Keith Bowman, Senior Technologist in Hypersonics, Lockheed Martin Corporation

Assistant Secretary - Derrick Shelton, Ed.D., Director of Educational Services, Admin Solutions, Inc.

Immediate Past President - Nan Baker, Vice President, C.N. Baker Enterprises, Inc.

The new officers were elected to the Leadership Ohio Board at its December meeting. Trustees recognized outgoing Immediate Past President Todd Kleismit for his exceptional service across a nine-year term (2014 – 2022) which included tenure as President and Immediate Past President.

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Leadership Ohio is the state's first and most prestigious statewide civic leadership development program, founded in 1992. Success in our mission creates a unifying movement of diverse, connected leaders who make Ohio the best state to live and work.

Become a 2023 Leadership Ohio Fellow. Sign up for information today: https://lnkd.in/emaGmwMK

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The 43 Ohio leaders selected for fellowships come from across the state

Columbus – (March 16, 2022) - Leadership Ohio is pleased to announce it has selected the new class of Fellows for 2022. This year, 43 leaders from across the state will be given the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and perspective of Ohio while contributing to the Leadership Ohio legacy of impact as the organization celebrates its 30th anniversary year.

“This is an outstanding cadre of highly talented and accomplished fellows,” said Nan Baker, president of the board, Leadership Ohio. “We are thrilled to welcome this diverse group during our 30th anniversary year, which will be intentionally focused on collaboration and impact.”

The 2022 Leadership Ohio class is one of the most dynamic in the organization’s history. Each Fellow was nominated and completed a competitive application process to be considered for the class. The fellows come from various backgrounds and communities, with leaders working in innovation and business, state reform, education, and more. They will engage in programming across the state from April through November, and the curriculum and experience will provide a thoughtful opportunity for different perspectives and backgrounds to come together to learn and grow.

“I’m honored to welcomethese remarkably visionary and inspiring individuals,”said Dr. Lisa Duty, executive director, Leadership Ohio. “They are now part of a growingnetwork of changemakers and catalysts who are building stronger communities and a stronger Ohio.”

Leadership Ohio’s Alumni go on to occupy positions of influence in leading companies, key government agencies, elected offices,commissions, and Ohio’s boardrooms.

For more information about Leadership Ohio, visit leadershipohio.org.

Announcing the Leadership Ohio Class of 2022

Michele Young, J.D., Partner, Michele L. Young Co., LPA, and Of Counsel, Gregory S. Young Co., LPA

Michele Young is a2020 Cincinnati Enquirer Woman of the Year, Cincinnati Bar Association‘s Julia A. Stauberg Honoree “in Recognition of an Outstanding Female Counselor for her Exemplary Service and Accomplishments” and 2014 Cincinnati Women's Political Caucus’ Outstanding Achievement Award Honoree.

A Georgetown University Law Center graduate, former adjunct law professor, Federal law clerk, andlegal author, Young has a passion for justice and changing law and lives so the forgotten and the marginalized are given an honored place in the world. Her work includes championingGabriel Taye,Sherry Chen, andTyra Patterson, and exposinginjustices.

Young tries to save one life at a time, including her “Don’t Text and Drive” campaign and present legislative campaign to insure every Ohio woman will have early screening of breast cancer throughHB371’s passage.

Young reaches out to lift children with theBootsy Collins Foundationand veterans with the Armed Forces Tickets Association. She combats bigotry with various organizations, including theCincinnati American Jewish Committee’s Black Jewish Tableand theOhio Asian Pacific Islanders American Public Affairs Association.

In 2016, Michele was the endorsed Democratic candidate andfirst motherto run for Congress OH-1.

Michele is a mom of five,counselto her husband’s law firm Gregory S. Young Co., LPA, and has her own firm focused on social justice, Michele Young Co., LPA.

Whitney Gaskins, Ph.D., CDP, Assistant Dean of Inclusive Excellence and Community Engagement, University of Cincinnati and Founder of The Gaskins Foundation

Dr. Gaskins is the Assistant Dean of Inclusive Excellence and Community Engagement in the University of Cincinnati College of Engineering and Applied Science, the only African-American female currently teaching in the faculty of the College of Engineering.

In 2009 she founded The Gaskins Foundation (thegaskinsfoundation.org) a non-profit organization. Her foundation launched the STEMulates year round K-12 program, which is a free of charge program that will introduce more students to Math and Science. She was named the 2017 K12 Champion by the National Association of Multicultural Engineering Program Advocates (NAMEPA).

In 2015, Dr. Gaskins was awarded the Janice A. Lumpkin Educator of the Year Golden Torch Award. In 2019, she was recognized by the Greater Cincinnati Chamber as a Black History Maker. She was a recipient of the Dr. Terry Kershaw Faculty Excellence Award and the Excellence in Teaching Award for her innovative honors course Sticky Innovation (stickyinnovation.com). She was inducted in the 40 under 40 class of 2019 and was recognized as a 2021 Career Woman of Achievement. To learn more, please visit whitneygaskins.com.

Jocelyn Rosnick, J.D., Policy Director, ACLU of Ohio

Jocelyn Rosnick is no newcomer to advocacy — she petitioned her city council at nine years old. Rosnick joined the ACLU of Ohio in 2012, where she has used her policy, legal, communications, and organizing skills to move across teams. As policy director, Rosnick oversees the development and execution of the ACLU of Ohio’s legislative, administrative, and public education policy efforts on everything from voting rights to criminal justice and LGBTQ rights. Rosnick has collaborated on several criminal justice projects, including those on bail reform, death penalty repeal, debtors’ prison, solitary confinement, and prison privatization. Rosnick frequently oversees research-based reports and is a recurring commenter in the media.

In addition to her work with the ACLU of Ohio, Rosnick is an adjunct faculty member at the Mandel School for Applied Social Sciences at Case Western Reserve University. A true activist, Rosnick is passionate about protecting protesters' rights. Rosnick previously coordinated the Ohio Chapter of the National Lawyers Guild which trains individuals to be legal observers and currently consults on monitoring peaceful freedom of assembly with the Office of Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. Rosnick received her B.A. from West Virginia University and Juris Doctor from Case Western Reserve University School of Law.

Rosa Beltré (She, Her, Ella), President & CEO, Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence (OAESV)

Rosa Beltré (She, Her, Ella), Afro-Taina-Latinx, is the President & CEO of the Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence. Beltré is known as a catalyst of change, who is action-driven, womenx, passionate about power/gender-based violence, BIPOC empowerment, leadership, knowledge, enriching the lives of others, bridge building/collaboration, accountability and provoking change.

OAESV has expanded from three employees to 18 under Beltré’s leadership, greatly increasing service capacity, presence, organizational cultural and community relations. Beltré uses her passion, extensive background and experience to develop and sustain relationships with leaders in the field, as well as key stakeholders within the state, national level, and federal government. She has spent the last 20 years training, cultivating community relations, providing development to organizations and communities focused on fair housing, child abuse, sexual assault, volunteerism, financial literacy and church call to action. Beltré has served as the Co-chair of the State of Ohio Anti-Oppression and Accountability Committee and currently serves as the Co- Chair of the Women of Color Caucus of the State of Ohio, the Sexual Assault Advisory Board of Ohio, and the Ohio Family Violence Prevention Advisory Council, amongst other statewide taskforces.

Beltré is an ordained Minister of the Spanish Pentecostal Churches, Vice-President of International Women Ministry MDM, author, and the Regional Social Service Director of her Faith community.

Nathan A. Strum, MPA, Director of Economic Development, City of Gahanna, Ohio

As Director of Economic Development for the City of Gahanna, Ohio, Nathan (Nate) Strum primarily focuses on promoting the economic vitality of the city by engaging businesses as well as residents to think globally while investing locally in the City of Gahanna.

In addition to his role with the City of Gahanna, Strum serves in a variety of organizational capacities including the Mid Ohio Development Exchange (MODE) as its Immediate Past President, a member of the Board of Directors for Ohio Economic Development Association (OEDA) where he chairs the Annual Summit committee, and as Membership Chair for the Gahanna Rotary Club.

Prior to joining the City of Gahanna in 2021, Strum served as Executive Director of GROW Licking County Community Improvement Corporation, a 501-c-3 nonprofit tasked with overseeing economic growth within Licking County, Ohio. Over a 5+ year period, Strum aided in the economic growth of 4,000+ new jobs and 2.8B in private investment.

A proud Muskie and Bobcat, Strum received his B.A. from Muskingum University and his Master’s in Public Administration from Ohio University.

Originally from Pittsburgh, Strum lives in Blacklick with his wife Christy.

Rayshun Holt, Beacon of Hope Program Director, Cincinnati Works

Rayshun Holt works with a variety of different entities in the re-entry ecosystem – including businesses, human service agencies, faith-based ministries, corrections institutions, and government agencies among others – to improve the experience and long-term success rates for people who struggle to rebuild their lives due to a criminal record or period of incarceration.

Holt’s personal experience with the justice system and successful transition drive him to create a better system for others. One of his first job opportunities at Nehemiah Manufacturing showed him first-hand the power of a supportive employer, not just to fill an open role but to grow and develop talent. Holt also volunteers as a mentor with Cincinnati Works’ Phoenix Program, dedicated to eradicating gun violence by providing viable economic opportunities to under-served communities of Cincinnati.

His leadership with Beacon of Hope extends beyond Greater Cincinnati as a regular lecturer at Harvard Business School, Stanford Business, and Georgetown University on the business value of Fair Chance Hiring.

Meghan Cummings, Vice President Civic Advancement, Greater Cincinnati Foundation

Meghan Cummings serves as Vice President, Civic Advancement at Greater Cincinnati Foundation (GCF). In this role, she leads GCF’s policy advocacy work and develops, drives and secures funding for large-scale initiatives that address complex community problems.

Cummings most recently served as Executive Director for the Women’s Fund at GCF, an organization that drives economic self-sufficiency for women through research and policy change. She is passionate about addressing poverty and equity issues by igniting public will and inspiring philanthropy, business and government to collaborate in new ways.

Cummings is a past president of the Greater Cincinnati Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and has worked extensively on the chapter’s DEI efforts including the creation of a diversity pipeline program called New Faces of Fundraising. She was named to the 2014 class of the Cincinnati Business Courier’s Forty under 40. She serves on the board of Philanthropy Ohio and is an advisor to Ellequate, the first employer certification program for gender equity in the US workplace.

Cummings holds degrees in Political Science and Journalism from Miami University and an MBA from Xavier University. She resides in the Cincinnati area with her husband, Nate, and their son, Cameron.

Zach Prosser, Lead Pastor, Celebration Church

Zach Prosser has served in non-profit leadership and church ministry for over 23 years. In his leadership he has served around the world to make an impact through humanitarian efforts, leadership development, and facilitation. Prosser has served as a pastor in Akron, Ohio; New Orleans, Louisiana; and in Illinois. He launched Night of Hope, an event providing essential resources to the community. In 2019, Night of Hope became a weekly event providing groceries to over 20,000 people from 12 local counties. He also started Bethesda College, a church college campus training people for ministry leadership. Prosser has also appeared as a guest and a host for multiple programs on the worldwide Total Christian Television (TCT) Network.

Prosser’s desire to empower others is demonstrated in his work as an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Master Certified Coach and coach trainer. He serves as Director of Coaching at Emerge, a non-profit mental health organization, and as an Adjunct Coach for the Center for Creative Leadership. He serves as an Ambassador for the ICF Foundation, which brings pro-bono coaching into each of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.

Mikaela Hunt, Chief Communications Officer, Ohio Department of Commerce

Mikaela Hunt is an award-winning journalist that spent nearly 17 years in TV news, working in every seat from producer to anchor. Hunt is now the Chief Communications Officer for the Ohio Department of Commerce, developing and executing communications and media strategy for the state’s chief regulatory agency. She’s also a member of the state’s Visionary Leaders: Executive Leadership program.

Hunt also owns Mikaela Media, a brand journalism company that provides focused media training and online storytelling guidance for a variety of organizations, from nonprofits and small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.

Hunt is the co-host of a weekly iHeart radio show and podcast through 610 WTVN, What Matters with Mindy & Mikaela. She also hosts the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s podcast Cbuzz, which showcases business innovators in Central Ohio. Hunt is a Columbus Business First “40 Under 40” award recipient. She’s a member of the National Association of Women Business Owners and spent four years on the Columbus chapter’s Board of Directors. She also serves on the Columbus Parent magazine advisory board. Hunt enjoys presenting to local women’s leadership groups, teaching how women can own their brand and tell their story in the midst of change and transition.

Christopher Cutter, Partner Block Bridge Capital

Christopher Cutter has dedicated over ten years to high growth technology startups and emerging markets. Now as Partner at Block Bridge Capital, Cutter has helped create a hedge fund composed solely of digital assets. After a successful exit from his previous technology company, Cutter has diverted his sole focus to high finance and the emergence of blockchain and cryptocurrencies.

In addition to his leading role at Block Bridge Capital, Cutter also serves as a partner at another Ohio based company, Society Brands. Society Brands completed a 200 million dollar capital raise at the beginning of 2022 and is a rapidly growing mergers and acquisitions company set to become a major player in the Amazon Aggregator space.

Prior to Block Bridge Capital, Cutter helped Senator Kirk Schuring champion the Innovation District Bill throughout Ohio. Subsequently, Cutter created a non-profit StartupSTARK, whose mission is to provide guidance on startup communities, create shared ideation workspaces, and foster relationships between organizations for the good of Ohio entrepreneurs.

Clare Zlatic Blankemeyer - Executive Director, GreenLight Fund Cincinnati

Clare Zlatic Blankemeyer is focused on creating more inclusive prosperity for Greater Cincinnati as the Executive Director of GreenLight Fund Cincinnati. Zlatic Blankemeyer leads an annual, community-driven process to identify, invest in, and spread proven initiatives that build greater opportunities for children, youth, and families.

Zlatic Blankemeyer most recently served as the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives with the Manuel D. & Rhoda Mayerson Foundation. She and her husband, Tony, co-own City North: a maker and design studio. Her professional experiences center volunteerism and service-learning, engaged philanthropy, and cross-sector education on core social justice issues. She is committed to representative community engagement and data-driven impact and believes that these two priorities are not mutually exclusive.

Zlatic Blankemeyer is a past president of the women’s collective giving organization, Impact 100, and has volunteered within multiple other nonprofit boards and committees with a passion towards driving progress and process. She was named to the 2014 class of the Cincinnati Business Courier’sForty Under 40and as the 2017 The Greater Cincinnati Foundation & LEGACYEmerging Philanthropist.She is a proud YWCA Rising Star, Roger Bacon graduate,University of Dayton Flyer, Clifton Heights resident, and aunt to eleven.

Sabra Tomb, Esq., Attorney, Air Force Research Laboratory

Sabra Tomb is an attorney-advisor for Headquarters Air Force ResearchLaboratory (AFRL), located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. As an attorney for AFRL, Tomb provides legal support to AFRL’s $5 billion science, technology, research and development enterprise, including the laboratory’s nine component technology directorates and the 711th Human Performance Wing. Tomb also partners with AFRL’s Functional Directorates to accelerate the Research & Development process, and provides legal support to the AFRL leadership.

Tomb also currently serves as the Chair of the Department of Defense Technology Transfer Professional Development Advisory Group and as an Executive Board Member and Midwest Regional Coordinator for the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer. As the Midwest Regional Coordinator, she supports the technology transfer efforts of 30 labs and 130 facilities in six states.

Prior to her current position, Tomb was a Technology Transfer Specialist in the AFRL’s 711th Human Performance Wing’s Office of Research and Technology Applications and in the Wing’s Institutional Review and Biosurety Office.

Before her career with the Air Force, Tomb worked in the fitness and natural health industries for over ten years, and during that time, owned a natural health store for seven years.

Melissa Currence, Communications Manager, Procter & Gamble

Melissa Currence is a creative communications and marketing leader, highly skilled in communications that build visibility, drive strategic growth and capitalize on digital media for increased awareness and sales. A Cincinnati native, she is a communications manager for Procter & Gamble, serving P&G Professional in North America. Previously, she worked 20 years in nonprofit communications for a variety of organizations, including ArtWorks Cincinnati, Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Talbert House and Over-the-Rhine Community Housing.

Currence is on the board of the League of Women Voters of the United States, serving as governance and bylaws committees chair, and on the executive committee of the Cincinnatus Association as co-chair of the Excellence in Government panel. She was named as a 2015Cincinnati Business CourierForty Under 40 and graduated from Action Tank’s Cincinnati City Council Bootcamp in 2021. She is featured inLet Ohio Women Vote,a documentary by CET/Think-TV, which tells the story of the long fight for women’s suffrage in our state – a fight which created unpredictable alliances as well as surprising connections to national events. She has an accreditation in public relations, a bachelor’s in political science from Xavier University and a master’s in Journalism and Communication from The Ohio State University.

Cathy Bernardino Bailey, Executive Director, Greater Cincinnati Water Works

Cathy Bailey is Executive Director of the Greater Cincinnati Water Works (GCWW) and the first woman and African American to lead the independent water utility in its 205-year history. Bailey has a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Cincinnati and began her career with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Bailey joined GCWW in 1992 and became the Director in 2015. Bailey leads 600 employees in providing drinking water and stormwater services to 1.1 million customers in the Cincinnati region. Bailey distinguished herself as a leader throughout her career, focusing on communications, strategic planning, innovation, outreach, and teamwork to deliver robust community solutions. Nationally, Bailey serves as a board member for Engaging Local Government Leaders, the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies, the US Water Alliance, and Treasurer of The Water Research Foundation. Bailey serves locally as a Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter member, and as a Woman’s City Club and The Children’s Home board member.

In 2018, Bailey was selected as a Cincinnati YWCA’s Career Women of Achievement and a Venue Magazine’s Women of Influence. In 2019, Bailey was recognized by the Chamber of Commerce African American Leaders Making Black History series. In 2021, Bailey received the American Water Works Association Diversity and Inclusion Award and the Gaskins Foundation STEMmys Applied Scientist of the Year Award.

Dorian A. Hunter, VP of Business Development & Marketing, Elliott Insurance Agency

Dorian Hunter is a passionate servant-leader determined to create long term change within communities who need it most. With his role in insurance, he develops and enacts strategic efforts for the company’s communications, outreach and partnerships. He seeks to be an atypical representative within the financial services industry by serving the underserved and addressing critical needs within underprivileged and under-resourced communities.

In addition to his role in insurance, Hunter is a Co-Founder of DreamVision, a social enterprise that empowers and uplifts the youth to chase after their dreams and aspirations. He and his team’s work with DreamVision also intertwined with the establishment of the local NAACP Chapter’s Youth Committee, mentorship and programming at local schools as well as other events and initiatives throughout the city of Springfield all centered around youth empowerment since 2016.

Hunter has experience in commercial real estate, entrepreneurship and community based sales and marketing. He serves on the Strategic Planning Committee for Mercy Health, Strategic Housing Advisory Committee in coordination with Greater Ohio Policy Center (GOPC), and as a Board member and treasurer with The ROYAL Academic Group. He is a graduate of Wittenberg University with his B.A. in Marketing and Communications and his M.S. in Data Analytics.

Anthony DeBord, C.E.M., Customer and External Affairs Manager, AEP Ohio

As Customer and External Affairs manager for the southern Ohio territory, Anthony DeBord is responsible for representing AEP Ohio regarding community and customer issues. DeBord began his career with AEP in 2009 in Groveport, OH. Since then, he has worked in several Customer Experience related positions including Customer Service Account Representative and Customer Account Manager for Large Commercial and Industrial Accounts.

In addition to his External Affairs role, DeBord is currently on the board of the Lawrence Economic Development Corporation, which provides development, and partnerships, to encourage business opportunities in Southern Ohio. He also represents AEP Ohio as part of the Leadership Committee of Scioto 365, a Scioto County based Foundation that provides community grant funding to create vibrant, healthy, and safe neighborhoods and communities.

DeBord is a graduate of Franklin University and holds an undergraduate degree in Information Technology and a Master of Science in Marketing and Communications. Additionally, he holds the designations of Certified Energy Manager (C.E.M.), Certified Energy Auditor, and Certified Building Operator – Level 1. Currently, he resides in Logan, OH with his wife, Jennifer, and their three children.

Toya J. Johnson, M.Ed., Deputy City Clerk, Columbus City Council

Toya Johnson is the Deputy City Clerk for Columbus City Council. As the Deputy City Clerk, she assists with all matters related to the day-to-day operational functions of Columbus City Council. Johnson’s professional career spans thirty (30) years in government at local, county and state levels.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio,Johnson began service to the community as a therapeutic foster parent. Johnson’s concern for youth motivated her and her husband to open an early learning center, where they directly impact the lives of our future leaders.

Johnson serves on the boards for Directions For Youth & Families and Franklin Park Conservatory. She is Chair of the Conservatory’s Community Outreach & Education Committee,active in theColumbus Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc., a public service organization, and a charter member of the Columbus Chapter of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA).

Johnson has a Bachelor of Science degree from Hampton University and a Master of Education degree from Cleveland State University. She and her husband are the proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to one grandson. She attends Vineyard Columbus Church and enjoys travel, reading, music, sports and time with her family.

Troy Haslinger, Clinical Oncology Specialist, Natera and Founder Life Is Good No Matter What

Troy Haslinger is Clinical Oncology Specialist at Natera. In his role Haslinger is an oncology advocate and specialist who educates medical and surgical oncologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and nurses on Signatera. Signatera is a personalized, tumor-informed, ctDNA assay that monitors how well a patient with cancer is responding to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Haslinger works as well with C-Suite physicians and administrative staff to set up clinical pathways at University Hospitals/Seidman Cancer Center and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. In addition to his role as a Clinical Oncology Specialist, Haslinger is an Area Field Trainer where he educates new reps in their role to passionalty promote Signatera.

Haslinger launched Life Is Good No Matter What in 2012. The nonprofit grants escapes to adults battling cancer. It was started in memory of his sister Holly who battled colon cancer for 18 months before she passed away in 2011. Haslinger and his Board of Directors came up with the name Life Is Good No Matter What as a tribute to Hollys battlecry. Haslinger was Board Chairman for five years where nearly 40 escapes were granted. In 2016, Haslinger gave a TEDTalk at the University of Akron honoring his sister Holly called “The Power of Escape.”

Haslinger is a Father of two boys Sam and Max and one dog, Apollo.

Chrissy Myers, Chief Executive Officer, AUI & Clarity HR

Myers is the CEO of AUI and Clarity HR insurance benefits and HR services to small and medium sized businesses in both for profit and non-profit sectors.Myers describes herself as the chief cheerleader for both companies setting direction, steering marketing content, and finding creative ways to disrupt two established business sectors. She is also the author of AUI Gives Back and Clarity Cares, two community impact programs where employees serve in the community, track their impact and share what they are doing on behalf of their customers.

Around Akron Myers works to leave her community a better place. She is a graduate of Torchbearers, Leadership Akron, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, and Community Leadership Institute.

As an advocate for families struggling with addiction and mental health issues, Myers serves on the Board of Directors of the Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board of Summit County. In addition, she serves on the Board of Directors for Jobs for Ohio Graduates.

When she is not plotting world domination of the insurance industry or volunteering in the community Myers can be found at home with her husband, Steve, and two children: Maddy and Caleb.

Tyler Smith, MS, CSCS, Director of Community Health, Bon Secours Mercy Health

Tyler Smith is the Director of Community Health for Mercy Health- Lima,where he provides the strategic direction and oversight of collaborative efforts with hospital leadership, nonprofits, and CBOs to identify community health priorities and address social determinants and place-based health disparities.

Smith remains committed to collaboratively supporting innovative and sustainable projects, programs and partnerships that leverage both social and financial capital to address some of the greatest health and social needs experienced by patients, communities, and local neighbors.

In addition, Smith oversees the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), Community Benefit & Investment and Health Anchor Network (HAN) initiatives within the market.

Smith received his B.S. from Manchester University and his Master’s in Exercise Science from Oakland University, and is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS).

Smith serves on the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Allen, Auglaize and Hardin Counties, is a member of the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, a Regional Advisory Board Charter Member of the Children’s Hunger Alliance, a United Way of Greater Lima (UWGL) Allocation Committee member, a Governing Elder at Cable Road Alliance Church, a proud 2021 Allen Lima Leadership (ALL) and 2019 Mercy Health-Lima Emerging Leader graduate.

Smith resides in Lima, with his lovely wife Stacy and their 3 sons, Xayden, Jax, and Huxley, with baby 4 expected in April.

Angela N. Rivers-Harper, BS, MA, DBA, Programs Director, Dress for Success Cincinnati

Dr. Angela N. Rivers-Harper is a native of Cincinnati, OH where she is the current Programs Director for Dress for Success Cincinnati. Dress for Success Cincinnati is one of the few programs in the Greater Cincinnati Tri-State area focused specifically on the needs of unemployed and under-employed women and their families. Their successful programs empower women first to secure employment and ultimately to thrive in their careers, their lives, and their communities.

Rivers-Harper obtained her Doctoral Degree in Organizational Leadership in 2019 from Liberty University. She has an Associates in Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts in Business and Human Resource Management, Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, Master of Arts in Executive Leadership, four Certifications in Education, Organizational Communications, School Leadership, and is also a Notary for the State of Ohio and an ordained wedding officiant.

Rivers-Harper is a reigning Pageant Queen and a small business owner. River-Harpers is the CEO of Ohio Kurvy Fashion Weekend, CEO of Keep It Kurvy Boutique, Founder of the “I Love Me” Women’s Empowerment Conference, Kute Frames and Kute Kosmetics by Angela-Nicholle. Rivers-Harper resides in Cincinnati with her husband, William, who she has been married to for two years and they have a 28 year old daughter, Jshnaee’ Aviane’ and two dogs Caige and Corey.

Amy S. Harker, Northeast Ohio Regional Career and Innovation Specialist, ESC of Northeast Ohio

Amy Harker’s experience with career readiness (CR), leadership development, strategic planning, and personalized learning helps districts build capacity to expand their programming. Harker serves as a connector of public schools, higher education, and businesses in Ohio to aid districts in building experience-based learning opportunities and creating comprehensive career plans for K-12. She has established a CR Leaders Network as well as serves as a facilitator on the state-wide CR network. She is the CR Task Force Coordinator for the First Ring Collaborative.

As a lead on the Cross-State High School Collaborative in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University and the Ohio Department of Education, Harker works to redesign high schools. She is a certified Focus 3 facilitator and John Maxwell Presenter and Life Coach. She is also a National Leader for Future Ready Schools.

Harker has served in several roles in Ohio schools. She has been awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. She is a member of the BASA's women's leadership committee as well as BASA's Equity, Inclusion and Diversity Committee.

Harker is a graduate of Mount Union and received her master's degree from Baldwin-Wallace. A lifetime resident of Ohio, she is a proud mother of two daughters.

Crystal Jones, Vice President for Marketing, Diversity, and Community Impact, Clark State College

Crystal Jones has over fifteen years of experience in higher education withnine years devoted to industry-specific areas including business, customer service, marketing, healthcare administration, insurance, diversity, and leadership.

Jones not only has an adoration for higher education, but a lifelong passion for advocacy. Her leadership and experience in supporting individuals and the community is demonstrated through her participation in outreach programs, tutoring, not-for-profit startup, mentoring, and other professional settings. Jones has facilitated a number of Diversity sessions, such as the United Way of Clark, Champaign, and Madison Counties, the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission, and Springfield Fire Division. She has also served as a panelist on a community-wide discussion for Leaders of Change focusing on social justice, on the Women’s Leadership Panel for Women’s History month, and facilitated a panel focusing on Allyship and Advocacy.

Jones began her educational journey at Clark State College and earned her bachelor’s degrees in organizational leadership and human services from Urbana University. She then attained an MBA with an emphasis in Healthcare Management at American Intercontinental University and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in leadership in higher education at Capella University.

Dr. Kenyona Walker, Senior Project Manager at the Center on Education and Training for Employment at The Ohio State University

Dr. Kenyona Walker is a scholar on the topic of Race in Education. She serves as a co-leader of the Center CETE’s Steering Team for the Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (REDI) Movement, serving as an invited speaker, at the national and local levels. Walker teaches Urban Issues in Education at The Ohio State University. Walker is the Principal Investigator on theParent Mentors Oversight and Professional Development Project, sponsored by the Ohio Department of Education. As a licensed school psychologist, Walker works collaboratively with educators, 100+ Parent Mentors across the state, to address issues related to Special Education.

Dr. Walker leads theStaying and Thriving: Cultivating Community with and for Black Women Undergraduate Students in the College of Education and Human Ecologyproject as a Principal Investigator. The project is designed to increase the sense of belonging of Black women students at The Ohio State University. Her research has been published in both scholarly and creative works, including a pending book chapter, entitled Dear White People: Black Women Students’ Perspective.Driven by the belief that we must “do” justice, Walker develops blueprints for the intersection of research and practice to reimagine what true equity in education can be.

Nikol M. Miller, Executive Director, Miami Valley Urban League

Nikol Miller was tapped to be the Executive Director of the Miami Valley Urban League last year, where their mission is to transform generations through financial empowerment and self-sufficiency.

After living in Chicago for 12 years, Miller came home to Dayton in 2016 when she was hired as the Community Relations Manager at the Greater Dayton RTA. She was responsible for maintaining their community relations program by developing partnerships with stakeholders and community groups to advocate for RTA interests while fostering communication throughout the agency’s footprint.

Because of her work developing the national outreach plan for the 2020 Census, Miller was appointed by the Dayton City Commission and Montgomery County Board of Commission to chair of the Dayton-Montgomery County Complete Count Committee, a group of community leaders and stakeholders who coordinated across all sectors of Montgomery County the outreach efforts for a strong count in the 2020 Census.

Miller is a graduate of Miami University. She’s a member of St. Benedict Catholic Church and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She serves on the boards for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Greater Edgemont Community Coalition, the African-American Community Fund, Dayton’s Community and Neighborhood Development Advisory Board, and OnMain Advisory Board.

Amanda Page, MFA, Executive Director, Scioto Literary

Amanda Page is the Founder and Executive Director of Scioto Literary, a nonprofit that supports writers and storytellers in Scioto and surrounding counties in Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia. Scioto Literary’s first project isPeerless City, a documentary that examines the rise and decline of economic prosperity in Portsmouth, Ohio through the lens of three distinct slogans adopted by the city over two centuries.

In addition to her work with Scioto Literary, Page is a freelance writer who focuses on stories in the Midwest and Appalachia. Her work appears inBelt Magazine, The Daily Yonder, 100 Days in Appalachia, Literary HubandYes! Magazine. She is the editor ofThe Columbus Anthologyfrom Belt Publishing and The Ohio State University Press, and creator of Packard’s Columbus, a walking tour of Frank Packard architecture in downtown Columbus, Ohio. Her essay, “The Packard Presence in Columbus, Ohio,” about developing the tour, is featured in the anthologyMidwest Architecture Journeysfrom Belt Publishing.

Page earned a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Alabama. Originally from southern Ohio, she currently lives in Columbus where she teaches scholarly writing and humanities at Mount Carmel College of Nursing.

Christie Weininger, Executive Director, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums

Christie Weininger is the executive director of the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums in Fremont. She graduated from Otterbein University with a degree in history. While there, she volunteered in the college archives and completed internships with the Ohio History Connection, the Motorcycle Heritage Museum, and the Plymouth Area Historical Society. She spent a semester abroad at Roehampton Institute in Wimbledon, England, where studying “local history” meant working with documents that were 600 years old. Weininger earned her master’s degree in history from the University of Toledo. Her thesis was entitled “Finding Common Ground: The Use of Memories in the Creation of Community Identity.” Weininger was the director of the Wood County Museum, Bowling Green, for nine years and spent seven years as director/curator of the Wyandot County Museum, Upper Sandusky. Weininger is a past president of the Ohio Local History Alliance and chaired that organization’s Advocacy Committee. She also served the Ohio Academy of History as chair of the Public History Committee. Weininger currently is the treasurer for the Ohio Travel Association and is a board member of the Ohio Museums Association. She teaches courses in Ohio history and public history at Heidelberg University in Tiffin.

Tracy Spikes, MHR, CWDP, Workforce Development Senior Program Manager, Central Ohio Transit Authority

As Workforce Development Senior Program Manager of Central Ohio Transit Authority, Tracy Spikes is passionate about growing people and serving others. Spikes has aligned these strengths to help organizations thrive. That vision aligns with her organization's mission to “MOVE EVERY LIFE FORWARD.” Spikes earned her Bachelor of Science in Business from Ohio Dominican University and Masters in Human Resource Management (MHRM) from DeVry University. Spikes also holds a Certified Workforce Development Professional certification (CWDP).

Spikes currently leads COTA’s Vehicle Maintenance Pre-Apprentice Program and State of Ohio Apprentice Program. These two successful programs grant industry recognized credentials to high school students and employees through work-based learning and ATP formal training programs. Additionally, Spikes leads COTA’s African American Employee Resource Group BELIEVE supporting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion among employees. Prior to her current position, Spikes served as Executive Assistant, supporting COTA’s CEO and Deputy CEO.

Prior to joining COTA, Spikes served in a strategic role implementing the successful foundation of the Early College Academy, a dropout prevention charter school.

Spikes is a spiritual person who enjoys spending time with her partner Charles, two daughters, Monique and Deauntae, and three granddaughters, Armani, Eiliyah and Semira.

Mark Greer, MM, Great Streets Administrator, City of Akron

Mark Greer serves as Great Streets Administrator for the city of Akron where he manages 13 Neighborhood Business Districts. During his tenure, Great Streets has awarded over $2.6 million in façade grants to business owners, and provides support to local CDCs and neighborhood organizations.

As a coach and speaker, Greer has presented on leadership development, diversity, inclusion & belonging, economic development, education reform, the abolitionist movement, arts education, and community revitalization. Interviews and features include Crain’s Cleveland, Spectrum 1 News Ohio, Fox8 News Cleveland, Akron Beacon Journal, The Reporter, Socially Good TV, WAKR, WKSU, and the New York Times. His co-authored article, “How Akron, Ohio is expanding economic opportunity by investing in Neighborhood Business Districts,” was published by the Brookings Institution.

Greer was previously Program Coordinator at Leadership Akron, and taught on the faculties of Malone University, University of Mount Union, Kent State University, and the Settlement Music School in Philadelphia, PA. Greer serves on the board of Tuesday Musical Association, West Hill Neighborhood Organization, and the Kenmore Neighborhood Alliance, Visioning & Planning Committee. A 2021 recipient of the Greater Akron Chamber “30 for the Future” Award, Greer was recently named a recipient of the Ohio Black Women’s Leadership Caucus’s “Salute to Significant African American Males” award. In addition, Greer is a classically trained pianist, making his Carnegie Hall debut in 2006.

Shawna Woody, HOPE Toledo, Vice President of Operations

Shawna Woody was born and raised in Toledo, Ohio. She graduated from Rogers High School and, as a Toledo EXCEL scholarship recipient, earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication from the University of Toledo. Subsequently, she received her master’s degree in Communication Studies from Bowling Green State University.

In 2004, Woody began her 17-years-long career at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo as an instructor. Only four years later, her exemplary ability for youth development, effective guidance, program planning, implementation, and evaluation prompted her to swiftly move up the ranks to become the Director of Operations.

Woody joined the HOPE Toledo team as the Vice President of Operations in 2021 and is responsible for the development and implementation of policies and procedures, program efficiencies, and other operational duties while furthering the mission of the organization.

She serves on the board of directors for the Eberly Center for Women at the University of Toledo and with First Tee Lake Erie. Woody is a Center for Nonprofit Resources Minority Executive Leadership Program graduate and mentor, serves as co-lead for the youth pillar of the Toledo Racial Equity & Inclusion Council and is a member of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.

Hillary Stewart, M.A., Manager of Enterprise Risk Management, FirstEnergy, and the Ian P. Schwarber Foundation Fellow

Hillary Stewart is manager of Enterprise Risk Management & Risk Control for FirstEnergy Service Company. In this role, she is focused on promoting an enterprise-wide risk-aware culture.

Stewart joined FirstEnergy in 2008 as an intern. Prior to her current position, she held roles in Operational Performance Improvement, Enterprise Risk Management, Investor Relations, and Rates & Regulatory Affairs. She has a master’s degree in Economics and bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Akron and is a member of the Enterprise Risk Management subcommittee of Edison Electric Institute.

Stewart is a native Akronite who lives in North Hill with her husband Neil Nagy and rescue dogs Cinder and Swarley, where she enjoys using Instagram to chronicle her #adventuresonthegorge. In her free time, she is often found cooking, struggling to raise her houseplants, meeting with friends in Akron places, and reading books about economics.

As a committed Akron native, Stewart also serves as president of the board of South Street Ministries, a community development organization in South Akron. She is a graduate and former board president of Torchbearers and has volunteered with many local organizations.

Wendi R. Huntley, Esq., President, Connecting Kids To Meals

As President for Connecting Kids To Meals, Inc. (CKM), Wendi Huntley guides her nonprofit organization in providing hot, nutritious meals at no cost to at-risk kids in low income and underserved areas of NW Ohio. CKM partners with schools, libraries, community centers, afterschool programs, homeless shelters and other places where kids gather. Huntley is responsible for fundraising, community engagement, marketing, and brand management initiatives. CKM provides about 700,000 healthy meals to kids each year, and has been feeding hungry kids for over 19 years.

Huntley is also an accomplished attorney with nearly 30 years in corporate, litigation, intellectual property, sports and entertainment law. After working for a large law firm, she established her own firm, SPEC Group, with clients across the U.S. A native of Toledo, Ohio, Huntley earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Bowling Green State University and her Juris Doctorate from The Ohio State College of Law.

Huntley is active volunteering in the community and has received numerous awards of distinction. She was selected a 2020 Recipient of the YWCA of Greater NWOH’s MileStones Award and recently an Outstanding Community Responder (COVID-19) by the Association of Fundraising Professionals NWOH Chapter, to name a few. Huntley is Chair of the HOPE Toledo Board, and on the Board of Directors for Mercy Health, Partners in Education, Mobile Meals, and HEIRS CCC (Charlotte, N.C.).

Eric Wobser, City Manager, City of Sandusky

Eric Wobser is a native of Sandusky and has served as the City Manager of the City of Sandusky since 2014. As the chief executive officer of the municipal corporation, Wobser oversees more than 230 employees, manages an annual operating budget of over $25 million, and serves 25,000 residents. During his tenure, Wobser has partnered with the City Commission, staff, and community partners to catalyze a revitalization of Sandusky that has included over $400 million in public and private investment into Sandusky’s neighborhoods, downtown, and waterfront. Sandusky has positioned itself as one of the premier destination communities on the Great Lakes and has become a successful case study for the revival of Ohio’s smaller legacy cities.

Prior to returning to Sandusky, Wobser served as the Executive Director of Ohio City Incorporated and as Special Projects Manager in the Mayor’s Office in the City of Cleveland. He has also served as a board member of the Cleveland Municipal School District, the Downtown Cleveland Alliance, and the City Club of Cleveland. He currently serves on the boards of the Erie County Community Foundation and the Sandusky State Theater. Wobser is a proud graduate of Ohio University and the University of Michigan Law School.

Malcolm Cunningham, Health Outcomes Manager, ProMedica Health System

Malcolm Cunningham works across the spectrum of social determinants of health. Currently, he contributes expertise in community health, engagement, and organizing to ensure that voice, choice, and equity are centered in the Ebeid Neighborhood Promise (ENP) community development initiative.

Cunningham's career seeks answers to several questions: which interventions, supports, and policies are most critical to wellbeing? What does it take, at scale, to generate upward mobility and build health equity? What does it take, again, at scale, to mitigate weathering/rapid aging despite mobility and resilience? It's taken several years to elucidate these questions - as well as how to answer them best.

This clarification began at Ohio State University, where he graduated with a BS in Psychology and built primary schools in Malawi alongside fellow students and Professor Lupenga Mphande. Cunningham was also in the first cohort of Peace Corps Volunteers to return to Rwanda since 1994. Next, Cunningham returned home and taught "at-risk" Toledo youth how to grow organic food. He then worked at the University of Michigan's School of Public Health to develop a macro, public health perspective on his grassroots/soil-level work. Finally, Cunningham returned to Toledo to put down roots and generate community change at scale.

Omar Elhagmusa, Senior Lender, IFF

Omar Elhagmusa is a passionate, energetic advocate who uses his financial background to advance the facility and equipment needs of Nonprofits. He does a lot of this through education and reframing, helping debt averse non-profits make prudent decisions that benefit them long-term. As the senior lender for IFF in Ohio, his role is to leverage IFF’s resources to support targeted community-led initiatives.

In his previous 15+ years of financial experience, Elhagmusa got to learn all aspects of banking. Omar was ranked the number 1 branch manager out of 700 locations in Huntington Bank’s footprint in 2017. Elhagmusa then went on to become a business lender while volunteering his time and knowledge to support rejuvenation efforts in his adopted neighborhood of Weinland Park.

Elhagmusa was able to deploy over 10 MM dollars of capital to small businesses and nonprofits during his time at Finance Fund. During that time he developed valuable experience with New Market Tax Credits, Historic Tax Credits, and the Healthy Food Financing Initiative. Elhagmusa enjoys developing and implementing programs that ensure the long-term sustainability of nonprofits and social enterprises. He is certified as an Economic Development Financial Professional through the National Development Council and received his Master’s in Business Administration from Ohio Dominican University. As the senior lender for IFF in Ohio, his role is to leverage IFF’s resources to support targeted community-led initiatives.

Chris Canova, MBA, Executive Director/CEO, Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates

Chris Canova has turned his passion for youth development into a career. He has spent his entire professional career working with youth on academic, social and workforce development related issues. Canova has used his B.A. in Economics and Masters of Business Administration degrees to directly serve youth, coordinate youth programming and lead a non-profit youth service organization – Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates (JOG).

In 2002, Canova became the Executive Director/CEO of Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates. During his tenure, he has navigated the organization through significant change while increasing the revenues over 2,000% and transitioning JOG from a school-based program to a recognized community-based organization. Most importantly, JOG has achieved the highest recognition for outcomes in the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) national network for the past 20+ years, ensuring that its stakeholders - youth, funding agencies and Ohio’s communities - are receiving quality service.

Canova has served as a Nationally Certified trainer and consultant for JAG, assisting in the launch of several programs nationwide and has served locally and statewide on committees and boards of directors.

Brad Perkins, Vice President of Information Technology, siffron, Inc.

Brad Perkins has over 23 years of experience as an Information Technology professional, and just recently celebrated his 14th anniversary at siffron, Inc. where he serves as the Vice President of Information Technology. During his tenure at siffron, Perkins has helped lead the organization through multiple acquisition integrations, systems upgrades, and system implementations to help build the organization into one of the premier manufacturer and supplier of point of purchase fixture products in the United States.

In addition to his experience at siffron, Perkins also has experience working in the public sector, specifically higher education, as well as other private sector companies in industries that include outsourcing, domestic distribution, biomedical manufacturing, and global distribution.

While he may have been born in Massachusetts, Perkins considers himself a lifelong Buckeye! Perkins holds a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from Kent State University where he majored in Management and Information Systems, and a Masters in Business Administration from Cleveland State University. Perkins serves on the board of the Medina Soccer Association, and when he’s not at a soccer game or cheerleading competition, he absolutely adores spending time with his two daughters, Makayla and Aubrey, and his son Bradley Jr.

Meredith Whitehead, MA, Program Manager of Strategic Initiatives, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland

Meredith Whitehead is the Program Manager of Strategic Initiatives in the CommunityDevelopment Department of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. She leads the planning and execution of programming focused on workforce development across the Bank’s four-state district, which includes Ohio, western Pennsylvania, eastern Kentucky, and the northern panhandle of West Virginia.

Prior to joining the Cleveland Fed, Whitehead was the Assistant Athletic Director for all athletics at the University of Cincinnati. There, she led efforts dedicated to the Women’s Excellence Fund to provide investment in female student-athletes. While at the University of Cincinnati, Whitehead helped the launch of IMPACT, the market leading Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) readiness program. Whitehead also co-led a diversity initiative university-wide during the social injustice protest to increase awareness surrounding racial equity amid the murder of Geroge Floyd.

Whitehead possesses several years in the non-profit sector and operations. She serves on the Leadership Committee for Ohio Workforce Coalition. Whitehead has a BS in Communication from the University of Cincinnati and a MA in Organizational Leadership from the University of Arizona. She currently lives in Cincinnati, Ohio and is the dog mom of Sancho.

Julie Mujic, Ph.D., Global Commerce Visiting Assistant Professor / Coordinator for Faculty Partnerships (Knowlton Center for Career Exploration), Denison University

Julie Mujic is a historian of war and society, particularly focused on the Midwestern home front during the American Civil War. Her research projects also include the impact and memory of World War I on Columbus, Ohio; Ohio-centered global economic microhistories; and anti-abolitionism in Cincinnati. With an educational and professional background in business as well as history, Mujic teaches in the interdisciplinary Global Commerce major at Denison University in Granville, Ohio. On the administrative side of her dual role there, she has built stronger relationships between the university’s Humanities faculty and students with the campus career center and is driving improved engagement and post-graduation outcomes for students. Part of this work includes developing connections and opportunities for the university in the community; that call to outreach, in addition to her research and personal interests in the state, brought her to Leadership Ohio.

Mujic grew up in Willoughby and lived in several Northeast Ohio communities and in Connecticut before settling in Westerville with her family and two dogs. She also serves on the Westerville Public Library Board of Trustees, the Ohio Academy of History Executive Council, and is a co-founder of Humanities Happy Hour in Central Ohio.

Torika Thompson, Chief Executive Officer, Inergy Advisors

Torika Thompson is the Chief Executive Officer of Inergy Advisors, one of five companies operated within Thompson and Barnett Enterprises which she Co-Founded with Justin Barnett and is a Managing Partner. Thompson and Barnett Enterprisesempowers small businesses to achieve optimal efficiency and profitability, by addressing root cause concerns accompanied by a plan of action and the support to execute.Additional entities include TB Capital Solutions, Millennial Finance Corporation, Thompson and Barnett Innovations, and Upswing Financial Group. Prior to business ownership, Thompson worked for the Internal Revenue Service.

Thompson is an Air Force Veteran. After completing Leadership Northern Kentucky Class of 2016, Thompson was commissioned into The Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels by former Kentucky Governor Matthew Bevin. She is a member of The Order of the Eastern Star, Kappa Epsilon Psi Military Sorority Inc, and the Federated Democratic Women of Summit County.

In addition, Thompson serves on the Columbus Chamber Small Business Council, Greater Akron Chamber Government Affairs and Equity and Inclusion Committees, as Alumni Captain for Bunker Labs Veterans in Residence, the Board of Directors, and as Treasurer and Community Investment Review Chair for Impact100 Global Veterans.

Above all she is a woman of faith who receives God’s grace daily; it is her duty to serve others. Her true passion is youth development and empowerment, which inspired the Thompson and Barnett Youth Academy.

Shelly Martin, M.A.Ed., Business Operations Consultant, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC)

Shelly Martin, a proud native of Columbus, OH, is committed to servingpeople and her community. During her years at OSUWMC Martin has worked in clinical, educational, and administrative roles. Martin is currently a Business Operations Consultant for the Employee Resource Center (ERC), where she oversees the provision of resources to support faculty and staff well-being, while providing the educational tools needed to advance in their career.

After several years of providing diversity education for faculty and staff at OSU, Martin foundedShelltalk4Uwhere she has provided Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) consulting services for several organizations, including the FBI Columbus and Ohio Recreation and Parks.

Martin has a passion for learning, with an undergraduate degree in Cultural Comparative Studies and a Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Workforce Development. Martin is also an ordained Minister for Royal Kingdom Ministries and has served on numerous community programs and boards.

In addition, Martin has been a facilitator or speaker at a wide range of training opportunities local and nationally. She has received numerous awards and recognitions for her leadership and work in the community.

Bryan Stewart, Workforce Director, Montgomery County ESC & Learn to Earn Dayton

Bryan Stewart is a native of Dayton, Ohio where he serves as WorkforceDirector at the Montgomery County Educational Service Center. In this role, he manages their Business Advisory Council in coordination with major industry partners and 23 nearby school districts. In 2021, Stewart opened his first small business, Postmarked from the Stars Bookstore.

Previously, Stewart served as a Legislative Aide in the Dayton City Commission Office. In this role, he founded The Longest Table Dayton which held over 20 community meals bringing thousands of people together to break bread and discuss Dayton’s future. Stewart also founded Project Rebound which built a basketball court in West Dayton through a series of public and private partnerships in hopes of designing a space similar to NYC’s Rucker Park for young people to find safe haven and develop their skills.

Stewart holds a master's degree in public administration from the University of Dayton and a bachelor's in diplomacy and global politics from Miami University. He also serves as a board member for Welcome Dayton, the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton, and is an avid Cincinnati Bengals fan.

Rachel Gagnon, J.D., Chief of Staff, Lucas Metropolitan Housing

Rachel Gagnon is a proud Toledoan and a graduate of The Ohio State University and Capital University Law School. Licensed to practice law in Ohio and Michigan, Gagnon has devoted her life to serving her community through a variety of roles in the nonprofit and volunteer sectors. She recently joined Lucas Metropolitan Housing as its Chief of Staff at the end of 2021. Prior to joining LMH, Gagnon served as the Executive Director of the Toledo Lucas County Homelessness Board (TLCHB) as well as the Chief Operating Officer at Sunshine Communities.

Gagnon believes housing is a fundamental right for all individuals; she has spent time in her career advocating for inclusive housing developments and rebuilding response systems to effectively serve community members in need. In her work at TLCHB, she assisted in coordinating service delivery across an array of homeless services providers, acted as the HUD-mandated Continuum of Care organization and engaged in long-term planning for homelessness prevention. While at Sunshine Communities, Gagnon led a $5+ million housing project designed to provide individuals with disabilities stable and integrated housing in Toledo.

Gagnon serves as a Board Member for Lucas County Children Services as well as TLCHB. Gagnon’s greatest role is that of “mom” to her children, Vera and Ellis.

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