Press Releases

June 22, 2023

Leadership Akron Announces Signature Class 40

For four decades, Leadership Akron has been a catalyst for participants, enhancing their engagement and making a substantial impact as community leaders. The need for dynamic, informed, and committed community leadership is more crucial than ever in today's landscape. With great pride, Leadership Akron is pleased to introduce the 42 distinguished members of Signature Class 40.

1. Brynn Allio Popa, Greater Akron Chamber

2. Diana Autry, Akron Public Schools

3. Colleen Benson, Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank

4. Kara Buckler, The J.M. Smucker Co.

5. Renato Camacho, Akron-Canton Airport

6. Adrian Chestnut, Chestnut’s Consulting

7. Candace Curtis, Ben Curtis Family Foundation

8. Keri Deyling, Coleman Health Services

9. Gordon Edwards, Akron Children's Hospital

10. Steven Elliott, Summit County Probate Court

11. Cristina González Alcalá, Akron Community Foundation

12. Brian Harnak, County of Summit

13. Jacqueline Hemsworth, ACCESS Shelter

14. Karl Henley, SeibertKeck Insurance Partners

15. Beth Hertz, Cleveland Clinic Akron General

16. Herman Hill, Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority

17. Kelly Hillyard, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

18. Jessica Hudson, Summa Health

19. Dave Kistler, EY

20. Sierjie Lash, Akron Fire Department

21. Dave Laughlin, Akron Police Department

22. Brant Lee, University of Akron School of Law

23. Leia' Love, Leia' Love Hair & Nail Salon

24. Bob McKee, KeyBank

25. Heather Meeker, Summit Artspace

26. Elizabeth Menefee, Child Guidance and Family Solutions

27. Albert Moss, Guys and Gals Community Partnership Inc

28. Michael Munoz

29. Lisa Ohler, Portage Community Bank

30. Daniel Parnell, Signet Jewelers

31. Jim Pfander, Akron RubberDucks

32. Kim Phan Wolff, Wolff & Phan Autism Center

33. Shannon Siegferth, Better Business Bureau (BBB) Of Akron

34. Juanita Simpson, Leppo Rents

35. James Skakun, Bober Markey Fedorovich

36. Amanda Smith, Kastner Westman & Wilkins, LLC

37. Mayceo Smith II, City Of Joy Life Enrichment Center

38. James Talbert, Citizens Akron Church

39. Jennifer Towell, Summit County Court Of Common Pleas

40. Bradley Virgin, United Way Of Summit & Medina

41. Sean Vollman, City of Akron

42. Cheri Xeros, Energy Harbor LLC

On the announcement of the new class, Justin Hilton, President of Leadership Akron, shared, "Each year, the caliber of individuals who become part of our Signature Program is both humbling and inspiring. Signature Class 40 is no exception. They represent the richness of talent and dedication that defines Akron. I am excited to see their leadership journey unfold as they collaborate and contribute to the continual growth and development of our beloved community."

Leadership Akron's Signature Program presents an unparalleled opportunity for leaders to see beyond their own spheres to the broader interests of the community. Through a 10-month immersive program, participants develop a working knowledge of Greater Akron across sectors and learn to appreciate the diverse perspectives of their classmates, resulting in a corps of leaders equipped to advance the community.

The announcement of Signature Class 40 coincides with the start of Leadership Akron's 40th anniversary year, beginning July 1, 2023. This milestone underscores Leadership Akron's sustained commitment to developing community leaders and fostering a more vibrant Akron.

In addition to the Signature Program, Leadership Akron also offers Diversity on Board, Junior Leadership Akron, NEXT, and other community-based programming.

About Leadership Akron

For 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.