Staff

Kimberly oversees all aspects of the work of Downtown Akron Partnership. She works closely with downtown stakeholders, local government leaders, property owners, commercial and retail businesses and residents to advance the downtown neighborhood. Kimberly received her bachelor's degree from University of Wisconsin-Madison and masters in public administration at the University of Akron. She is a Torchbearers Alum,  former Vice President of the Friends of Metro Parks board of directors and youth basketball coach.

Dominic joined Downtown Akron Partnership in January 2020. He oversees DAP's internal and external communications, including marketing, advertising, design, and public relations. He works closely with DAP colleagues to promote DAP resources, initiatives, programs and events, while also promoting the initiatives of downtown partners and stakeholders, and making the case for downtown as a valuable, welcoming, vibrant neighborhood and regional asset for all people. Dominic received a bachelor's degree in English from Youngstown State University and a bachelor of fine arts degree in graphic design from the University of Akron Myers School of Art.

Emma Grosjean Joined DAP in July of 2023 and works closely with the programming coordinator to host diverse community events and maintain a beautiful downtown. She strives to facilitate joy within her community. Prior to joining DAP Emma worked with Stan Hywet and The Cummings Center for the History of Psychology. As a transplant Akronite Emma has found a spectacular community that she is proud to be a part of. Emma Graduated from The University of Akron in 2018 with a bachelor's in Anthropology.

Sonia joined Downtown Akron Partnership’s staff in February 2022 and works closely with the communications director—not only to promote DAP initiatives and lend an editor’s eye to pre-published materials, but to help tell the stories of the vibrant people, programs, and spaces that make up downtown’s unique ecosystem. She’s driven and inspired by the warmth of her community and is dedicated to working toward making it a welcoming, connective, loving place. Sonia received her bachelor’s degree in English and creative writing from The University of Akron in 2019.

Lauren helps develop and plan Downtown Akron Partnership programming of engagement and events. She believes fostering relationships with local businesses, artists, and other talented individuals is the key to creating unique and collaborative events that community members value and enjoy. Prior to joining DAP, Lauren lived and worked in Cincinnati, managing events in civic spaces for the downtown and Over-the-Rhine communities. She is excited by the vibrancy of downtown Akron and hopes to continue growing events for all Akronites to enjoy. Lauren received her bachelor’s degrees from Miami University in Psychology and Theatre.

Caleb works closely with Kimberly Beckett, director of business relations and development, to help meet the needs of businesses and stakeholders downtown. He started with Downtown Akron Partnership in December of 2022, after finishing up at the University of Mount Union where he studied Political Science and Legal Studies. He is an active and lifelong Akronite, bringing community engagement experiences from coaching wrestling to umpiring baseball and softball across Summit and Stark counties. Caleb is driven by his desire and vision for a diverse and inclusive downtown and his love for all citizens in Akron.

Brian has over 35 years of experience as an accounting professional serving private industry and the nonprofit sector. He spent the majority of that time in controller and CFO roles for various private companies in Northeast Ohio. After consulting with a nonprofit organization in the early 2000's he became interested in assisting nonprofits with the challenges presented in financial accounting and operational management. For the past few years he has consulted with numerous nonprofit organizations primarily in the Akron area. He has worked closely with executive directors to provide internal and external financial reporting, budgeting, cash flow forecasting, managing support staff, board reporting, audit preparation, and human resource management. Brian is a graduate of Leadership Akron and has served on various nonprofit boards throughout the Akron area..