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Release Date: June 28,2024

Leadership Akron Unveils Signature Class 41

June 28, 2024, Akron, Ohio — In its continued mission to cultivate community engagement and leadership, Leadership Akron proudly announces the 44 members of Signature Class 41. This year’s class embodies a diverse group of dynamic leaders poised to further enhance their impact across the Greater Akron area.

Leadership Akron’s Signature Program equips leaders to broaden their community influence through a rigorous 10-month journey. Participants delve into key community issues and develop collaborative skills necessary for effective leadership.

The members of Signature Class 41 represent a wide array of sectors, including business, non-profit, healthcare, education, and public service, bringing together unique experiences and perspectives:

  1. Nate Bailey, Hara Architects
  2. Crystal Beiting, The J.M. Smucker Co.
  3. Thomas Bown, Akron Municipal Court
  4. Shelly Brown, Akron Children's Foundation
  5. Ana Burns, Davey Resource Group
  6. Brittney Bush, Love Akron
  7. Julie Carneal, OPEN M
  8. Chip Clupper, Summit County Executive's Office
  9. Brooks Collins-Gaines, Coleman Health Services
  10. Michael Derr, Akron-Summit County Public Library
  11. Adam Fink, Cohen & Company
  12. Laura Fryan, Dinsmore & Shohl LLP
  13. Jarrod Hampshire, METRO RTA
  14. Adam Horner, Akron RubberDucks
  15. Audrey Houseman, TRIAD Advertising & Marketing
  16. Alexandra Houser Vukoder, Akron Art Museum
  17. Ken Hoyt, Akron Area YMCA
  18. Kevin Huebschman, Fifth Third Bank
  19. Kimberly Huff, Synthomer Foundation
  20. Mallary McHenry, Akron Urban League
  21. Michael A. Miller, Akron Police Department
  22. January Miller, Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  23. Joshua Moore, G. Stephens Inc.
  24. Jennifer Oberg-Dostal, Huntington National Bank
  25. Bonnie Panlasigui, Summa Health System Hospitals
  26. Taylor Papiernik, Fairway Wealth Management
  27. Alex Quay, Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs
  28. Scott Richardson, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
  29. Dionne Rich-Jordan, Stewart & Calhoun Funeral Home
  30. Alicia Robinson, Summit Education Initiative
  31. ShaRonda Sammons, Sammons Safety Services, LLC
  32. Christin Seher, The University of Akron
  33. Doug Smith, MD, Summit County ADM Board
  34. Teresa Stafford, Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center
  35. Dannika Stevenson, SIPSAVORSOUL
  36. Amanda Strickler, ACRT Services
  37. Michael Taylor, Welty Building Company
  38. Dan Tompkins, FirstEnergy Corp
  39. Sarah Vojtek, Stewart's Caring Place
  40. De'Juana Waters-Herald, Bridge the Village, Inc
  41. Steve Wewer, Truly Reaching You, Inc
  42. Lisa Wheeler-Cooper, American Heart Association
  43. Charles Whyde, Cleveland Clinic Akron General
  44. Joan Williams, Akron City Council

“Every year, the caliber of individuals selected for our Signature Program is a testament to the vibrant potential within Greater Akron. This class is no exception, with each member bringing unique experiences and a commitment to not just lead but make a meaningful difference,” said Justin Hilton, President and CEO of Leadership Akron.

As part of the program, class members will engage in monthly sessions exploring critical local issues such as education, economic development, justice, and public health. These sessions provide insights into the mechanics of the city but also foster relationships that bolster long-term collaborative efforts across different sectors.

Signature Class 41 marks another chapter in Leadership Akron’s storied history of fostering insightful leaders who are ready to contribute towards a dynamic and thriving community. The program kicks off this July, coinciding with the start of Leadership Akron’s 41st year.

In addition to the Signature Program, Leadership Akron offers a suite of other deeply immersive programs including Diversity on Board, Junior Leadership Akron, and NEXT, among others, designed to harness the power of effective leadership across Greater Akron at various stages of professional development.

About Leadership Akron
For over 40 years, Leadership Akron has inspired, strengthened, and empowered leaders to create a greater Akron. Through unique experiences and partnerships with local leaders, Leadership Akron provides a platform for emerging and established leaders to contribute to the community's vibrancy. For more information about Leadership Akron, visit www.leadershipakron.org