Leadership Ohio Announces Distinguished Appointments to Board of Trustees

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.

Leadership Ohio Appoints Lisa Much as New Program Director

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.

Leadership Ohio Bestows Leader Among Leaders, Most Inspirational, and Kleismit Award for Extraordinary Leadership

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 The Kleismit Award for 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.

The Kleismit Award for 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, at lisaduty@leadershipohio.org.

Leadership Ohio Graduates Contribute Diverse Expertise and Vision for Ohio's Future

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 Babcock & 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

Stephanie McManus-Renda Elected as Vice President of Leadership Ohio

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 

Shon Christy Elected as Board President of Leadership Ohio

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.

Leadership Ohio Impact Awards Honor Rayshun Holt, Laura Koprowski, Carolyn Rice, and Senator Hearcel Craig and Their Impactful Achievements

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, cocktails, 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 up for 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

Leadership Ohio Highlights Erie County, Sandusky and Huron’s Vibrant Lakefront Communities and Economic Growth at Upcoming Session

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 amusement 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

Thank You for Supporting the Leadership Circle

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!

Leadership Ohio Announces Selection of 8 Locations for 2023 Program

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 amusement 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 Babcock 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 Tecumseh 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.