Press Releases
June 28, 2024
Leadership Akron Unveils Signature Class 41
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:
Nate Bailey, Hara Architects
Crystal Beiting, The J.M. Smucker Co.
Thomas Bown, Akron Municipal Court
Shelly Brown, Akron Children's Foundation
Ana Burns, Davey Resource Group
Brittney Bush, Love Akron
Julie Carneal, OPEN M
Chip Clupper, Summit County Executive's Office
Brooks Collins-Gaines, Coleman Health Services
Michael Derr, Akron-Summit County Public Library
Adam Fink, Cohen & Company
Laura Fryan, Dinsmore & Shohl LLP
Jarrod Hampshire, METRO RTA
Adam Horner, Akron RubberDucks
Audrey Houseman, TRIAD Advertising & Marketing
Alexandra Houser Vukoder, Akron Art Museum
Ken Hoyt, Akron Area YMCA
Kevin Huebschman, Fifth Third Bank
Kimberly Huff, Synthomer Foundation
Mallary McHenry, Akron Urban League
Michael A. Miller, Akron Police Department
January Miller, Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Joshua Moore, G. Stephens Inc.
Jennifer Oberg-Dostal, Huntington National Bank
Bonnie Panlasigui, Summa Health System Hospitals
Taylor Papiernik, Fairway Wealth Management
Alex Quay, Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs
Scott Richardson, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Dionne Rich-Jordan, Stewart & Calhoun Funeral Home
Alicia Robinson, Summit Education Initiative
ShaRonda Sammons, Sammons Safety Services, LLC
Christin Seher, The University of Akron
Doug Smith, MD, Summit County ADM Board
Teresa Stafford, Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center
Dannika Stevenson, SIPSAVORSOUL
Amanda Strickler, ACRT Services
Michael Taylor, Welty Building Company
Dan Tompkins, FirstEnergy Corp
Sarah Vojtek, Stewart's Caring Place
De'Juana Waters-Herald, Bridge the Village, Inc
Steve Wewer, Truly Reaching You, Inc
Lisa Wheeler-Cooper, American Heart Association
Charles Whyde, Cleveland Clinic Akron General
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
Henry Johnson, Jr.
Senior Program Manager