Leadership Akron

Meet the first four members of NEXT Class 15.

These leaders bring decades of experience and a fresh curiosity for what's possible in Greater Akron. We're honored to welcome them:

• Lou Albertson
• Cynthia Bell
• Mary Bell Nolan
• Judith Christy

Greater Akron is stronger when leaders like these stay in the game.

🤝 Meet the class here: https://www.leadershipakron.org/nextclass15

🔗 Read the full press release: https://www.leadershipakron.org/press-releases-blog/pr7-30-26

Psssst.... The Annual Meeting is coming up soon! Secure your tickets now.

🗓️ Thursday, August 20, 2026
⏰ 4:30-5:30 pm VIP | 5:30-7:30 pm Main Event
📍 Our Lady of the Cedars | 507 S Cleveland-Massillon Rd, Fairlawn, OH 44333

Tickets and sponsorship info here: https://www.leadershipakron.org/2026annualmeeting

When you sponsor a Leadership Akron event, you’re doing more than supporting a moment on the calendar. You’re investing in the relationships, conversations, and shared experiences that help shape a stronger, more connected Greater Akron.

By sponsoring a Leadership Akron event, you’re contributing to more than just a date on the calendar. You're investing in the meaningful relationships, engaging conversations, and shared experiences that help build a stronger, more connected Greater Akron. These events celebrate everything from new leaders stepping into their roles to community visionaries who inspire us all. Join us in 2026 for sponsorship opportunities and become part of a passionate network committed to making a real difference locally.

2026 event sponsorship opportunities are now available. Partner with us and stand alongside a network committed to meaningful local impact.

Explore sponsorship opportunities: https://www.leadershipakron.org/sponsoranevent2026

Leadership Akron is pleased to announce the members of NEXT Class 15, a group of experienced leaders preparing to explore new opportunities for service, connection, and continued impact in Greater Akron.

These 17 experienced Greater Akron leaders will explore new ways to invest their time, perspective, and talent in the community.

👏🏻 Please join us in welcoming NEXT Class 15:

• Lou Albertson
• Cynthia Bell
• Mary Bell Nolan
• Judith Christy
• Christine Cox
• Tonya Essick
• Deborah Farris
• Jean Hansen
• Jeannine Marks
• James McCargar
• Sieglinde O’Neil
• Butch Reynolds
• Suzanne Roberts
• Jill Sellers
• Lenda Sojourner
• Brenda Spear
• Robin Vande Zande

Read more here: https://www.leadershipakron.org/press-releases-blog/pr7-30-26

Start your morning with connection, conversation, and a fresh perspective at our next Leadership on Main!

Join us on Wednesday, August 12, for a conversation with Madhu N. Sharma, Executive Director of the International Institute of Akron, moderated by Tania Nemer, Deputy Chief Civil, Tax, and CSEA with the Summit County Prosecutor’s Office. Together, they’ll explore Madhu’s leadership journey, the experiences that have shaped her, and the role connection and belonging play in strengthening Greater Akron.

📅 Wednesday, August 12
⏰ 7:30–9:00 a.m.
📍 The Duck Club by Firestone at 7 17 Credit Union Park
🎟️ Free to attend; registration is required

Host Partner: Akron RubberDucks.
Charity of Choice sponsor: State & Federal Communications.

Come ready to learn, connect, and expand your experience alongside leaders from across our community.

Register today: https://www.leadershipakron.org/leadership-on-main

Congrats to our Leadership Akron Alumni who are continuing to lead in the community as new Akron Community Foundation board members.

• Jennifer Venarge DiSalvo - Signature 38
• Rev. Ron Fowler II - Signature 34
• Jesse Hurst - Signature 22
• Eric Jones - Signature 11
• Jim Nilsen - Signature 3

Congrats to all, and the amazing work ACF continues to do in Greater Akron!

Tickets are on sale now for Leadership Akron’s 2026 Annual Meeting & Read Family Difference Maker Award Reception.

Join us on Thursday, August 20, as we gather to reconnect, reflect, and celebrate the leadership that continues to strengthen Greater Akron. This year, we are proud to honor Jennifer Venarge DiSalvo as the 2026 Read Family Difference Maker Award recipient.

This special community gathering is open to all community members and brings together Leadership Akron graduates, friends, and neighbors for an evening rooted in recognition, connection, and a shared commitment to Greater Akron.

📅 Thursday, August 20, 2026
📍 Our Lady of the Cedars | Fairlawn, OH
🕟 VIP Reception: 4:30–5:30 PM
🕠 Main Event: 5:30–7:30 PM

Reserve your tickets today and join us for this meaningful evening of celebration and community: https://www.leadershipakron.org/2026annualmeeting

Leadership Akron Annual Meeting & Read Family Difference Maker Award Reception 2025 — Leadership Akron 2026 Annual Meeting &Read Family Difference Maker Award Reception Honoring Jennifer Venarge DiSalvo Sponsor the Event Purchase Tickets Thursday, August 20, 20264:30-5:30pm VIP | 5:30-7:30pm Main EventOur Lady of the Cedars | 507 S Cleveland-Massillon Rd, Fairlawn, OH 44333 Join us for this special c...

Apply now for Leadership Akron’s 2027 Community Leadership Institute (CLI).

Over four immersive program days, participants will connect with Greater Akron decision-makers, explore community assets, and strengthen leadership skills through experiences focused on education, business, arts and culture, civic leadership, and justice. CLI is designed for leaders who are ready to build meaningful relationships, broaden their perspective, and deepen their impact in the community.

Program Dates: February 10–March 24, 2027

Step into the places, conversations, and connections shaping Greater Akron. Apply today: https://www.leadershipakron.org/lacli

Leadership is a lifelong commitment to community, and growing together is how Greater Akron thrives.

✨ SAVE THE DATE ✨

Join us for the 2026 Holiday Party & Maynard Distinguished Leader Award Celebration as we honor Howard Parr for his lasting leadership and commitment to strengthening Greater Akron’s arts and culture community.

📅 Thursday, December 10, 2026
⏰ 4–5 p.m. VIP | 5–7 p.m. Main Event
📍 Greystone Hall

Come together with Leadership Akron alumni, friends, and community leaders for an inspiring evening of connection, celebration, and reflection as we recognize the leadership shaping Greater Akron.

More details to come: https://www.leadershipakron.org/holidayparty2026

Program date—Insight Akron returns Tuesday, October 20, 2026!

Designed for senior-level leaders who are new to Greater Akron or returning to the area in a new leadership role. Insight Akron is an intensive, one-day experience filled with site visits, community insights, and meaningful connections with leaders across sectors.

Discover the people, places, history, and issues shaping Greater Akron and gain the perspective to hit the ground running.

📅 Tuesday, October 20, 2026
⏰ 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
💲 $600
🗓 Registration deadline: October 9

Registration is open: https://www.leadershipakron.org/insightakron