Press Releases

July 18, 2024

Leadership Akron Hires Stephanie Smith As New Director of Engagement & Impact

Leadership Akron is proud to announce that Stephanie Smith has been hired as Engagement & Impact Director, effective July 22, 2024.

Stephanie Smith has over 25 years of professional experience in marketing, communications, office management, business and professional development. For the past 10 years, Smith has leveraged her expertise as the Strategic Communications & Engagement Manager for Bober Markey Fedorovich, shaping and curating the firm’s internal and external brand, messaging, engagement and community positioning.

Stephanie is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their priorities, overcome challenges, and cultivate stronger partnerships. By applying CliftonStrengths principles, Stephanie has enabled leaders to drive higher performance and live their best professional and personal lives. Her commitment to professional development has included frequent presentations on marketing, professional development and strengths-based development to various audiences, including executives and professionals, community organizations, college students and global accounting associations.

Dedicated to the betterment of our community through organizational consulting, board service and hands-on volunteerism, Stephanie serves as a mentor and coach, particularly advocating for the advancement of women in their careers. She also serves on the board of ACCESS, Inc. and has held leadership roles in multiple Chambers of Commerce while volunteering for various community organizations, as well as serving as an advocate, member and frequent patron of The Nightlight Cinema in Akron.

Stephanie is a graduate of Leadership Akron’s 2017 Community Leadership Institute Class 4, and has since remained quite active as an alum, including service as a co-chair member of her class’s Alumnae Committee.

Leadership Akron President & CEO Justin Hilton stated, “I am beyond thrilled to welcome Stephanie to our Leadership Akron “stafFamily” where her unique combination of passion and expertise will continue to transform this beloved community wherein we live, work, play, stay and serve others as much as we do ourselves!”

For more information about Leadership Akron, visit www.leadershipakron.org