Brian Anderson
Vice President, Polymer Industry Cluster
Brian Anderson
Brian Anderson is the Vice President of the Polymer Industry Cluster for the Greater Akron Chamber. Brian leads the Polymer Industry Cluster Initiative of Northeast Ohio, as well as the data and regional economic analysis functions of the organization. Prior to the Chamber, Brian worked at a wearable technology start-up and a Fortune 500 company. He decided to make a move because he wanted to contribute to an organization that he felt could improve the region and the lives of its residents.
Brian received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics at Emmanuel College in Boston where he was also a three-sport collegiate athlete. From there, he attended The University of Akron for his MBA, and University of Texas – San Antonio for his master’s degree in finance.
Brian and his wife Casey like to travel, cook, and are dedicated fans and season ticket holders of the University of Akron men’s soccer team.
Emily Baarson
Manager, Projects and Initiatives
ConxusNEO
Emily Baarson
Emily Baarson brings a unique range of experiences to ConxusNEO as Manager, Projects and Initiatives. Her 20-year career has been shaped by enabling community change through planning and economic development. In recent years, her work has focused on enhancing access to opportunity and improving workforce mobility. She is a creative collaborator who thrives on engaging with community partners to solve complex challenges and find creative funding to do so.
As the spouse of a retired military officer, Emily has lived and worked in many interesting places. While living with constant change could seem overwhelming to some, Emily saw her family’s moves as opportunities to learn, and flourished in the midst of change and the challenge of adapting to new situations.
Having experienced such a range of places and work environments, she gained first-hand knowledge of the importance of workplace policies that support adaptive thinking and life-work balance. In an era when more women hold advanced degrees than men, Emily sees a critical need to provide meaningful and flexible ways for women who frequently relocate or have changing family needs to contribute to the economy.
Originally from Northeast Ohio, Emily earned a Bachelor of Science in Botany/Environmental Science from Miami University (Ohio) and a Master of Urban Planning, Design and Development from Cleveland State University. After many years away, Emily and her family relocated to Ohio in 2019 to be closer to extended family and enjoy the great quality of life and incredible educational opportunities offered in the Buckeye State.
Jean Barbato
Senior Manager, Manufacturing Sector Partnership
ConxusNEO
Jean Barbato
Jean brings 15 years of experience in higher education working with recruitment, advising and retention for non-traditional, adult completion programs, and grant management in workforce training and apprenticeships. She also has 35 years of experience as a small business owner and understands the difficulties and the importance of training and retaining employees.
At ConxusNEO, Jean is the Senior Manager of the Manufacturing Sector Partnership with oversight of the sector partnership, the U.S. Department of Labor Scaling Apprenticeship grant and the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Good Jobs Challenge program. Her responsibilities include collaborating with local community-based organizations who serve underrepresented, underserved people in the greater Akron region to provide training and to gain quality job opportunities for career growth.
Jean earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and a Master of Business Administration from Walsh University in North Canton, OH. She is on the Advisory Board for the Stark County’s Greater Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank Community Harvest program, is a member of the Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital Service League, and is the chair of the grant writing committee for Another Act of Kindness.
Hope Bell
Senior Manager, Community Partnerships
ConxusNEO
Hope Bell
ConxusNEO
Dedicated to fostering meaningful connections and driving positive change, Hope is a passionate workforce development advocate with a proven track record in the non-profit sector. Hope has an exceptional ability to build bridges between organizations, stakeholders, and communities. With a strong commitment to collaboration and community empowerment, she has consistently demonstrated her capacity to create impactful partnerships that drive collective success.
With extensive experience in workforce development, and 10 years of experience in strategic planning and program management, Hope has consistently championed programs that bridge the gap between education and employment. She has successfully conceptualized, developed, and executed innovative initiatives that equip individuals with the skills and confidence needed to excel in today’s competitive job market.
Hope holds a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication from Morehead State University and continues to pursue professional development opportunities to stay at the forefront of workforce development strategies and trends.
Hope’s vision revolves around creating a future where collaboration is not just a buzzword but a cornerstone of sustainable progress. She remains committed to exploring new avenues for partnerships, amplifying community-driven initiatives, and inspiring others to contribute to the collective well-being of the community.
Alyssa Carpenter
Alyssa Carpenter has a unique role, serving in a dual capacity as the Director of Economic Development for the Greater Akron Chamber and the Director of Business Development for Team NEO, focusing on the rubber, plastic and polymer industries serving Stark and Summit Counties. Alyssa views the work of economic development much like a puzzle with intersections of building relationships, problem solving, and pulling the partners in the public and private sectors together in order help our companies and communities grow and prosper.
For her work professionally, Alyssa earned the Ohio Economic Development, Ohio Certified Economic Developer certification. She also frequently presents as a guest speaker as part of the Ohio Economic Development (OEDA) programing on topics of economic and professional development, as well as more locally, via Team NEO’s NODE program.
Most of her time outside of work involves her kids, Caroline and Grant, and their school activities. Alyssa also enjoys entertaining and being outdoors.
Surendra Chawla
Consultant, Polymer Industry Cluster
Surendra Chawla
Surendra Chawla retired from The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company as a Senior Director of Global Innovation in 2018 after 40 years of service in different roles and responsibilities. He joined Goodyear in 1978 as a Senior Research Engineer in Corporate Research and rose through the ranks to Director and Head of the Goodyear Corporate Research from 2003 to 2008. In 2009, he was given the responsibility to lead Goodyear Open Innovation initiative. In this role, he championed the culture of open innovation in Goodyear, to explore, assess and internalize external technologies for sustainable product leadership and create new business opportunities in mobility solution space of Connected, Autonomous, Shared and Electrical (CASE) vehicles. He created a global R&D network of world-class universities, research institutes, national laboratories, open networks, suppliers, customers and start-ups; and successfully integrated dozens of new programs into Goodyear technology and product platforms. He is one of the founders of the Goodyear Institute of Technology (GIT) – “forum for tire related technologies”. Hundreds of Goodyear associates around the world have benefited from this opportunity to expand their knowledge and skill base. In January 2021, he joined Greater Akron Chamber as a consultant to support the Polymer Industry Cluster Initiative.
He has a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from India, Master’s and PhD from the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), Chicago, USA.
Michele Cook
Executive Assistant
Michele Cook
Michele Cook is the Executive Assistant for the Greater Akron Chamber. In her role, Michele works closely with GAC President & CEO Steve Millard to assist in keeping the executive committee and other leaders engaged, informed, and prepared for the Chamber’s work each day. This includes maintaining accurate contact records for the organization's boards, committees and task teams, as well as writing meeting minutes, and overseeing the distribution of materials in advance of board and committee meetings. She was driven to work for the Chamber because of their efforts to support the business community and her ambition to inspire kindness; both important aspects to her personally and professionally.
The City of Cuyahoga Falls once presented a hero award to Michele for an instance in which she utilized CPR to assist a man who’d fallen in the road after experiencing a heart attack. in the middle of the street. Michele stays in contact with the man today, demonstrating her affinity for compassion.
Michele likes to spend as much time outdoors as possible but doesn’t complain when she is stuck inside snuggling with her dog and cat. Family is very important to her, and she spends each Sunday together with them for family breakfast. She is most proud of her son, who is currently studying at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
Gregg P. Cramer
Vice President, Economic Development
Gregg Cramer
Gregg Cramer is the Vice President of Economic Development for the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role he manages the day-to-day economic development operations, including Attraction and Business Retention & Expansion. Gregg also works with our Elevate Greater Akron partners to oversee the collective effort to meet with 300+ companies on an annual basis. Along with the County of Summit and City of Akron, he also co-chairs the “Akron, USA” domestic/international marketing initiative.
Gregg is inspired by the fact that his father worked at B.F. Goodrich for 25 years in the same office complex currently occupied by the Chamber; he literally looks out the window at his father’s office every day. Gregg truly believes we are a unique community with a rich history and have a great story to tell.
Professionally, Gregg received his Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) certification from the National Development Council. He also honed his public speaking skills during his run for public office. For the record, his family prayed he would lose the race; he lost the race.
Without question, the defining characteristic of his life has been raising a child with Special Needs; in countless ways - personally and professionally - it has made him a more appreciative, better, and focused person. Other than chocolate, Gregg’s only vice is American muscle cars.
Sarah Deitrick
Project Manager
Sarah Deitrick
Sarah Deitrick is the Project Manager of the Polymer Industry Cluster for The Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, Sarah advances the work of the region’s industry partners by coordinating the Polymer Industry Advisory Council’s engagement in various economic development operations. This includes executing promotional events and conferences for the cluster, as well as surveying the Greater Akron business community to gather insights, perspectives, and challenges that help to shape the organizations’ efforts. She loves playing a part in meaningful work and chose to work at the Chamber in order to drive economic growth and prosperity within the community.
As a 3rd generation Akronite, Sarah is deeply connected to the region. She is most proud of founding her grassroots organization, Friends of Keyser-Swain Farmhouse in 2021, which advocates the historical significance, preservation, and selective restoration of the building. She is additionally proud to serve as President of Progress Through Preservation of Greater Akron, a volunteer non-profit organization.
When not at work, Sarah finds comfort in spending time with her daughter watching movies, exploring the trails of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, visiting museums, and attending concerts.
Robyn Durlin
Manager, Digital Marketing and Web Design
Robyn Durlin
Robyn Durlin is the Manager of Digital Marketing and Web Design for the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, Robyn creates graphics, designs, and other visual materials for the Chamber to use in its marketing and communications efforts. Robyn joined the Chamber team after 15 years in digital design for the retail advertising and marketing industries. She decided to step away from the corporate marketing world to join an organization where she could make a difference in her local community.
Originally from Maine, Robyn attended Lyndon State College (now Vermont State University) where she earned bachelor’s degrees in digital media and graphic design, before moving to Greater Akron in search of a more robust job market.
She now lives in Portage County with her husband and three cats, where she enjoys spending time outside kayaking, beach combing, hiking, and camping. Robyn also frequents concerts and likes to take trips to visit her family in New England.
Heather Flohr
Senior Manager, Business Operations
Heather Flohr
Heather is the Senior Manager, Business Operations at the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role she handles many responsibilities ranging from bookkeeping for the organization, human resource support for staff, as well as general office management. A couple years ago Heather chose to make a change in careers and join the Chamber after seeing the positive impact being made by the team in this region. She wanted to be a part of the change the Chamber was making in the community.
Heather is a proud Veteran of the United State Marine Corps, having served for eight years from 2004 – 2012, during that time she received various Medals and Letters of Commendations. Heather has a bachelor’s degree in social psychology from Park University and is a Certified Notary Public for the State of Ohio. She is also a graduate of Torchbearers Class of 2019 and served as the Co-Chair for Membership in 2020.
Outside of work her favorite things to do include hiking and reading. In 2020 she read over 140 books! She also likes to find volunteer opportunities she can share with her kids to get them immersed in their community. Heather lives in Copley with her husband, their three children, and their dog.
Halee Gerenday
Director, Marketing and Communications
Halee Gerenday
Halee Gerenday is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, she brings visibility to the work of the Chamber and our regional partners, and ensures our members stay connected to information that will support and strengthen their businesses. She chose to work at the Chamber because she wanted to support community growth and utilize the power of storytelling to showcase the people and businesses here in Greater Akron.
Halee received her bachelor’s degree in digital media journalism & sport communications from Ashland University. Professionally, she is a proud recipient of a first-place award for Best Reporter in Ohio by the Society of Professional Journalists in 2017 for her work with the Medina Gazette.
For Halee, home is in Medina County with her husband and son. She enjoys traveling and being outdoors – whether it’s reading a good book on her patio, camping at one of Ohio’s State Parks, snowboarding or walking the trail with her dogs.
Sante Ghetti
Vice President, Investor Engagement
Sante Ghetti
Sante is the Vice President of Investor Engagement for the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role he works to support our members goals, ensuring our members are connected, engaged, and supported in our shared work and mission. Sante chose the Greater Akron Chamber because he has a passion for supporting the business community and the region. His favorite part of his job is getting to know and working with people, he is always learning something new from everyone he meets.
Professionally, Sante has a unique background having previously working in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. He is particularly proud of his time working for The White House as well as raising money for pediatric cancer patients and survivors. A few awards he has received as recognition for his work have been 2014 COSE Staff Service Award, 2018 Catalyst of Leadership & Excellence (CLE) Award, and he was a member of the Leadership Cleveland Class of 2020.
Sante has a wife and two daughters that inspire him daily. While it’s his family that inspires him the most, he also enjoys golfing and traveling to anywhere that has a beach.
Jen Golembiewski
Senior Manager, Member Engagement
Jen Golembiewski
Jen Golembiewski is the Senior Manager of Investor Engagement at the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role she works to support our members’ goals, ensuring our members are connected, engaged, and supported in our shared work and mission. Jen chose to work with the Chamber to do what she can to help Greater Akron flourish; she wants to continue the legacy of her grandmother, who owned a steel factory in Akron and was very active in the community.
Prior to coming to the Chamber, Jen held various positions in management, business operations, and enrollment communications; she enjoys serving others and connecting people with the resources needed to advance their professional efforts. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communications and an MBA in integrated marketing from Walsh University.
Jen lives in Stark County with her husband and two children, who are Irish twins. She is a board member on her son’s wrestling team and loves to watch her children participate in sports and the performing arts. In her free time, she also enjoys boating, reading, bourbon, and watching football.
Ameeca Holmes
Senior Manager, Healthcare Sector Partnership
ConxusNEO
Ameeca Holmes
Ameeca is an Akron native and comes from a local hospital with 11 years of experience. Ameeca is passionate about community outreach efforts and has led many grant initiatives related to youth development, education, and public health issues focusing on maternal and child health. All of her previous work experiences have awarded her the knowledge and skills to raise awareness and facilitate beneficial programming in adverse communities.
Ameeca received her bachelor’s and Masters of Arts from Kent State University. At ConxusNEO, she will manage the Healthcare Sector Partnership and continue to foster and promote relationships in the community with local healthcare facilities to support workforce development opportunities.
Evan Laux
Manager, Content Creation
Evan Laux
Evan Laux is the Content Creation Manager for The Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, Evan develops various media for the Chamber and distributes it to members and other partners. This includes written marketing materials, social media posts, newsletters, podcasts, internal resources, event photography, and other media. Evan chose to work with the Chamber so that he could be better connected to the community and learn more about business development.
Evan graduated from Ashland University in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in digital media journalism and media production. In his first career experience prior to being with the Chamber, Evan worked for an automotive magazine where he reported on the high-performance engine building industry. He is proud of his experience attending and covering national racing events and interviewing CEOs from industry-leading companies like Rottler, Amsoil, King Engine Bearings, SBI, and Maxiforce.
He hails from the small town of Tiffin, Ohio, and moved to Akron directly after college. Throughout the year, Evan can be found playing volleyball with Summit Sports and Social, both at the downtown sand courts and the Pinnacle Sports facility in Fairlawn. He often frequents Blu Jazz+ and Musica to see local musicians, runs and bikes on the Summit Metroparks trails, and volunteers with Sawyers Wish.
Emily Lundgard
Vice President, Elevate Greater Akron
Emily Lundgard
Emily Lundgard is the Vice President of Elevate Greater Akron, the region’s collective economic development initiative. Emily’s deep passion for collaboration, civic service, and community is at work every day in her role convening and supporting the leaders of Elevate as they advance a shared vision and set of priorities to bring prosperity to Greater Akron. Approaching each day with a forward-thinking mindset is a necessity for Emily, who leads with authenticity and hard work.
Over the last 16 years, Emily has worked in the public, non-profit, and philanthropic sectors, bringing to bear her expertise in policy and advocacy, communications, strategy, and coalition building. She is most proud of launching the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition, serving as Cuyahoga County’s first special assistant for regional collaboration, and working to bring more housing affordability and stability to communities across Ohio.
Emily is Ohio born and raised. She is originally from Dayton, received her both bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from the Ohio University, and now lives in Northeast Ohio with her husband Loren. Outside of work, Emily can be found exploring cities, reading the next great American novel, or engaged in her local community where she volunteers as a youth soccer coach and serves on the Ohio City Incorporated Board of Directors.
Steve Millard
President & CEO
Steve Millard
Steve Millard is President and CEO of the Greater Akron Chamber. Steve was attracted to the Chamber in 2018 to become a part of an emerging new collaboration among economic development partners led by the County of Summit, the City of Akron, the GAR Foundation, and the Chamber’s Board leadership. The promise of an enterprise approach across disparate ecosystem partners to increase jobs, investment and opportunity for the region was a bold idea for the region and the business community that he wanted to be involved in creating.
That bold idea became the unique collaboration that is working to advance economic development in Greater Akron called Elevate Greater Akron. The commitment by more than 20 ecosystem partners working together to do the right things to drive growth and success for the region has allowed for stronger collaboration and impact for the region.
Prior to joining the Chamber in 2018, Steve spent more than 20 years leading in various roles in economic development including as the President and Executive Director of the Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE) and the Executive Vice President of the Greater Cleveland Partnership.
Professionally, Steve is a Certified Chamber Executive and has been recognized in a variety of ways for community leadership, Board service and professional contributions. Steve holds a B.S. in Finance, a B.S. in Transportation and Distribution Management from Syracuse University, and an M.B.A. from Case Western Reserve University. Prior to his work in Economic Development, he spent time at both GE Medical Systems (now GE Health Care) and Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) in supply chain operations and strategy consulting roles.
Steve currently serves on several boards including Leadership Akron, Summit Education Initiative, TeamNEO, ConxusNEO, Business Volunteers Unlimited, Downtown Akron Partnership, Downtown Akron Development Corporation and Medical Service Company.
Steve and his wife, Lisa, are proud to have a daughter, Lexie, who is a high school English teacher and a son, Ben, currently attending Marietta College. They live as the guests of three cats and two dogs who go out of their way to be perfectly good at doing absolutely nothing. Steve has no impressive hobbies or world adventures to brag about, but does have some bad habits like good bourbon, great scotch, and an occasional cigar that he is happy to share.
Elisha Murray
Office Coordinator
Elisha Murray
Elisha Murray is the Office Coordinator at the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, Elisha oversees the scheduling, set-up and supplies associated with our event space, coordinates with vendors to keep the office well-stocked and well-organized, greets guests and connects them with the appropriate individual, and answers the main phone-line for member inquiries. She is energized and inspired by connecting with others and uses that passion to make the 388 Main St. office a welcoming and inviting space for employees, members, and other visitors.
Professionally, Elisha has a wide range of experience in Management and Sales and earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from The University of Akron. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Elisha and her husband opened their own landscaping business where she serves as Office Manager and Bookkeeper.
In her free time, Elisha enjoys going for walks on the Summit Metro Park trails or around her neighborhood. She is an avid Audiobook listener and loves books that focus on self-development, health, wellness, and spiritual enlightenment. Volunteering is also important to Elisha, who has helped with fundraising for the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Awareness Walk since 2008.
Brynn Popa
Executive Vice President
Brynn Popa
Brynn is the Executive Vice President for the Greater Akron Chamber. For the last 15 years, Brynn has been immersed in economic development work, where she has advanced public policy efforts impacting business, played leadership roles in the coordination of collaborative economic development partnerships and worked to enhance the climate for business success in Northeast Ohio. In her current role, Brynn oversees the many operational efforts as well as key strategic initiatives of the Greater Akron Chamber, including the Chamber’s work as the convener and collaborator for Elevate Greater Akron. Among all of her roles, perhaps one of her most prized is the one she plays as a leader of teams – identifying unique talent, helping people to harness their skills and advance the organization’s work in impactful ways. Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, Brynn is proud and humbled to have the opportunity to impact change in her hometown and is inspired by the collaborative spirit in the region, illustrated by the strong public private partnerships that make all his work a possibility.
Advancing the region’s potential is something Brynn strives to do both professionally and personally. She is a member of the Board of Directors for the Akron Civic Theater as well as the United Way Summit Medina. In 2011, Brynn was recognized for her work and leadership as a recipient of the Crain’s Cleveland 40 Under 40 Award. Brynn received her undergraduate degrees in Political Science and Sociology from John Carroll University and her Masters of Public Administration from Cleveland State University.
When she has the time, Brynn enjoys traveling, running, cooking and binge-watching Netflix series. She lives in Copley with her husband, Greg and two daughters.
Alexis Raineri
Coordinator, Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance
Alexis Raineri
Alexis Raineri is the Coordinator of the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance (ACAA), the joint advocacy-focused partnership between the Greater Akron Chamber and Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. In her role, Alexis creates Advocacy Update communications, helps manage the ACAA social media accounts, and works toward establishing the alliance’s public policy agenda. She chose to work with the Chamber to better learn the connection between communications work and public policy.
Prior to her work with the Chamber, Alexis worked as a barista at Barnes & Noble for five years while studying for her degree. In December 2023, she graduated summa cum laude as a Williams Honors College student from the University of Akron, where she studied public relations. She is most proud of her senior capstone, titled (Un)successful Use of Apologia: A Case Study of Mayor Schubert’s Resignation, which is published on IdeaExchange.
Alexis and her two-triplet brothers were born on Halloween – coincidentally, she is an avid reader of Stephen King and other horror/fantasy books series. She also enjoys hiking and baking.
Anna Richards
Senior Manager, Programs and Events
Anna Richards
Anna is the Senior Manager of Programs and Events at the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role she creates opportunities for our members to come together, make connections, and stay informed. Anna has always enjoyed bringing people together and helping others, so she chose the Chamber to be a part of an organization that connects people and businesses in the region.
Anna dedicates time to volunteering, especially with the University of Dayton Cleveland Alumni Community actively serving in the Akron Chair and Service Chair roles.
Outside of work, Anna loves to spend time with her husband and two boys. They enjoy crafting, traveling, kayaking, and baking.
John Rizzo
Vice President, Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance
John Rizzo
John Rizzo is the Vice President of the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance for the Chamber. In this role, he works to connect chamber members to key information on relevant political activities, convene regional stakeholders on pressing issues facing the business community, and advocate for identified solutions. Coming from a family of small business owners, John really enjoys working with companies to understand and pursue the various policies and opportunities they stand to benefit from. Although not every effort results in a “win”, he finds it rewarding to facilitate conversations that identify real issues and solutions and work to achieve tangible results on behalf of small businesses.
John Rizzo received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of Akron from which he is a proud alumnus. He also serves on several nonprofit committees and advisory boards within the region and participates on various panel discussions during advocacy-related events.
Coming from a large multicultural family, there is nothing John enjoys more than spending time with family, friends, and his dog, Bella. And, when Ohio’s weather permits it, he really enjoys cycling through Summit Metro Parks, golfing, and playing intramural sports.
Sheri Shields
Senior Manager, Small Business Engagement
Sheri Shields
Sheri is the Senior Manager of Small Business Engagement at the Greater Akron Chamber, working with the Economic Development team. In this role, Sheri works closely with small businesses with a focus on woman and minority owned companies. Prior to joining the Chamber team, she was a Chamber member and benefit provider. As a member, her experiences with the Chamber were great and when she was asked to join the team, she said yes! That was 25 years ago.
Sheri’s favorite thing about her job is getting to work with and help people. She enjoys developing relationships, making introductions, and providing memorable experiences. Sheri is a proud Alumni of the University of Akron and stays engaged with the university.
Sheri has a husband, two sons, and a very opinionated dachshund as a granddog. Outside of work, Sheri loves spending time with her family, traveling, going to parks, and enjoying music and theater.
We have identified the Board members that also participate on our Executive Committee with a * by their name.
| Name | Personal Title | Related Organization |
|---|---|---|
| Tyler Amos | VP - Sr. Financial Consultant, Akron Branch | Charles Schwab Corporate Services |
| Anne Armao | Vice President, Member Experience & Product Development | SummaCare |
| Dunja Augustin | Vice President of Operations | Vistra |
| Ken Babby | Owner & Chief Executive Officer | Akron RubberDucks |
| Elizabeth Bartz | President and CEO | State and Federal Communications, Inc. |
| Kristi Beeman | Regional Banker | Huntington National Bank |
| Warren Blazy | Senior Vice President | CBRE |
| Tami Bolder | Director, CBIZ Valuation Group | CBIZ, Inc. (CBIZ Mayer Hoffman McCann) |
| Julie Brandle* | President | Metis Construction Services LLC |
| Marie Brilmyer | Partner | Cohen & Company |
| Traci Buckner | Executive Director | Akron Children's Museum |
| Ren Camacho* | President and CEO | Akron-Canton Airport |
| Tony Costanzo | Director, External/Legislative Affairs | AT&T |
| Joe Daleiden | Sr. Vice President - Commercial Banking | KeyBank |
| Dr. Cliff Deveny* | President /CEO | Summa Health |
| Dr. Todd Diacon | President | Kent State University |
| Dawn Distler | Chief Executive Officer | METRO RTA |
| Marc Divis | President | Akron Energy Systems, LLC |
| Krista Dobronos | SVP, Consumer Banking Leader | Westfield Bank |
| Jason Dodson | Shareholder | Roetzel & Andress |
| Tracy Dowe | City President & Middle Market Team Leader - Akron/Canton/Youngstown | Fifth Third Bank |
| Laura Duda* | Senior Vice President & Chief Communications Officer | Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company |
| Gino Faciana | Co-CEO | Pleasant Valley Corporation - NAI Pleasant Valley |
| Craig Ferriot | President | Ferriot |
| J.R. Fowler | COO | S.A. Comunale |
| Rich Fry | Taxation Practice Group Leader | Buckingham Doolittle & Burroughs LLC |
| Val Geiger | Executive Director, Commercial Banking | JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. |
| Peter Geise | Akron Area President | FocusCFO |
| Chris Gessner | President & CEO | Akron Children's Hospital |
| Suzie Graham Moore | Director of Economic Development | City of Akron |
| Dwayne Groll* | CEO | Environmental Design Group, LLC |
| Dan Hampu | President & CEO | Burton D. Morgan Foundation |
| Dr. Brian Harte | President | Cleveland Clinic Akron General |
| Craig Hassinger | CEO and President | SeibertKeck Insurance |
| Gillianne Hetrick | Vice President, Human Resources & Corporate Operations | Babcock & Wilcox |
| John Higgins | Region Vice President | Spectrum |
| Dr. Para Jones* | President | Stark State College |
| Halle Jones Capers | President | Halle's Engineering & Design |
| Ethan Karp | President and CEO | MAGNET |
| Bill Koehler | Chief Executive Officer | Team NEO |
| Dr. John Langell* | President | Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) |
| Amanda Leffler | Akron Managing Partner | Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick |
| Erin Leppo Palmer | CFO & In-House Legal Counsel | Leppo, Inc. (Leppo Equipment/Bobcat of Akron) |
| Dr. Leia' Love | Chief Executive Officer | Leia' Love Hair & Nail Salon |
| Joe Luckring* | Regional President | PNC Bank |
| Mayor Shammas Malik | Mayor | City of Akron |
| Christine Mayer* | President | GAR Foundation |
| Jim Merklin | Partner | Bober Markey Fedorovich |
| Marc Merklin* | Shareholder | Roetzel & Andress |
| Steve Millard* | President & CEO | Greater Akron Chamber |
| Lakisha Miller-Barclay* | Executive Director & CEO | Rubber Division, ACS |
| Mike Morrison | Senior Director, Private Markets | GPD Group |
| Chuck Mullen | Partner, Great Lakes Market Leader | Eide Bailly |
| Jim Mullen | President & CEO | United Way of Summit and Medina |
| Chrissy Myers | CEO | AUI & Clarity HR |
| Brian Nelsen | Chief of Staff | County of Summit, Ohio |
| RJ Nemer | President | The University of Akron |
| Don Padgett | Executive Director | Kaulig Companies Championship |
| Roberta Palacio | Supply Chain Executive | Continental |
| B. Patel | Principal & Co-Founder | GHC Green Harvest Capital |
| Joe Paul | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | The Davey Tree Expert Company |
| Ron Paydo | Market President | Huntington Bank |
| John Petures | President & CEO | Akron Community Foundation |
| Kendra Philon* | Vice President, Assurance Services | Meaden & Moore |
| Tony Prinzo | VP, Human Resources | National Interstate Insurance |
| Tia Ramlow* | President | Great Work Employment |
| Dr. Michael Robinson | Superintendent | Akron Public Schools |
| Terry Robinson | Dean of Technical Learning & Outreach | Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC |
| Ike Samson-Akpan | President/Owner | SAF, Inc. |
| Dr. Jennifer Savitski* | Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology | Cleveland Clinic Akron General |
| Executive Ilene Shapiro | County Executive | County of Summit, Ohio |
| Shaleeta Smith | President | Akron Urban League Young Professionals |
| Raymond Somich | Global Director, Government Affairs | Synthomer |
| Erin Spring | Senior Director, Material Science | The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company |
| Brian Steere | Co-President | Steere Enterprises |
| Don Taylor | CEO | Welty |
| Damian Thomas | Market President | The RCF Group |
| Jason Tuma | Partner, Northeast Ohio Market Leader | Sikich LLP |
| Andrew Twardzik | Partner, Americas Deputy Risk Markets Leader | Ernst & Young LLP |
| Neille Vitale | CEO | Tri Mor Corp. |
| Rich Wallack | Regional Vice President, Northeast Region of Ohio | Medical Mutual |
| Dan Weekley* | President | Enbridge Gas Ohio |
| Zach Wemple | Chief Human Resources Officer | GOJO Industries, Inc. |
| Katherine White | Board Liaison | Torchbearers (YP) |
| Bernett L. Williams | Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer; Vice President for Community Initiatives | Akron Children's |
| Steve Wilt | Principal, Finacial Advisor | CAPTRUST |
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Tyler Amos
Charles Schwab Corporate Services
VP - Sr. Financial Consultant, Akron Branch -
Anne Armao
SummaCare
Vice President, Member Experience & Product Development -
Dunja Augustin
Vistra
Vice President, Operations -
Ken Babby
Akron RubberDucks
Owner & Chief Executive Officer -
Elizabeth Bartz
State and Federal Communications
President and CEO -
Kristi Beeman
Huntington National Bank
Regional Banker -
Warren Blazy
CBRE
Senior Vice President -
Tami Bolder
CBIZ, Inc.
Director, CBIZ Validation Group -
Julie Brandle*
Metis Construction Services LLC
President -
Marie Brilmyer
Cohen & Company
Partner -
Traci Buckner
Childrens Museum
Executive Director -
Ren Camacho*
Akron-Canton Airport
President & CEO -
Tony Costanzo
AT&T
Director, External Affairs -
Joe Daleiden
Key Bank
Sr. Vice President - Commercial Banking -
Dr. Cliff Deveny*
Summa Health
President & CEO -
Dr. Todd Diacon
Kent State University
President -
Dawn Distler
METRO RTA
Chief Executive Officer -
Marc Divis
Akron Energy Systems, LLC
President -
Krista Dobronos
Westfield Bank
SVP, Consumer Banking Leader -
Jason Dodson
Roetzel & Andress
Shareholder -
Tracy Dowe
Fifth Third Bank
City President & Middle Market Team Leader - Akron/Canton/Youngstown -
Laura Duda*
The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Senior Vice President & Chief Communications Officer -
Gino Faciana
Pleasant Valley Corporation - NAI Pleasant Valley
co-CEO -
Craig Ferriot
Ferriot
President -
J.R. Fowler
S.A. Comunale
COO -
Rich Fry
Buckingham Doolittle & Burrough
Taxation Practice Group Leader -
Val Geiger
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
Executive Director, Commercial Banking -
Peter Geise
Focus CFO
Akron Area President -
Chris Gessner
Akron Children's Hospital
President & CEO -
Suzie Graham Moore
City of Akron
Director of Economic Development -
Dwayne Groll*
Environmental Design Group
President -
Dan Hampu
Burton D. Morgan Foundation
President & CEO -
Dr. Brian Harte
Cleveland Clinic Akron General
President -
Craig Hassinger
SeibertKeck Insurance
President & CEO -
Gillianne Hetrick
Babcock & Wilcox
Vice President, Human Resources & Corporate Operations -
John Higgins Jr.
Spectrum
Regional Vice President -
Dr. Para Jones*
Stark State College
President -
Halle Jones Capers, P.E.
Halle's Engineering and Design
President -
Dr. Ethan Karp
MAGNET
President & CEO -
Bill Koehler
TeamNEO
Chief Executive Officer -
Dr. John Langell*
Northeast Ohio Medical University
President -
Amanda Leffler
Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick
Attorney-at-Law -
Erin Leppo Palmer
Leppo, Inc.
CFO & In-House Legal Counsel -
Dr. Leia Love
Leia Love Hair & Nail Salon
Chief Executive Officer -
Joe Luckring*
PNC Bank
Regional President -
Shammas Malik
Mayor
City of Akron -
Christine Mayer*
GAR Foundation
President -
Jim Merklin
Bober Markey Fedorovich
Partner -
Marc Merklin, Esq.*
Brouse McDowell
Partner -
Steve Millard*
Greater Akron Chamber
President & CEO -
Lakisha Miller-Barclay*
Rubber Division, ACS
Executive Director & CEO -
Mike Morrison
GPD Group
Senior Director, Private Markets -
Chuck Mullen
Apple Growth Partners
Chairman -
Jim Mullen
United Way of Summit and Medina Counties
President & Chief Executive Officer -
Chrissy Myers
AUI & Clairty HR
CEO -
Brian Nelsen
County of Summit, Ohio
Chief of Staff -
RJ Nemer*
The University of Akron
President -
Don Padgett
Kaulig Companies Championship
Executive Director -
Roberta Palacio
Continental
Supply Chain Executive -
B Patel
Green Harvest Capital
Principal & Co-Founder -
Joe Paul
The Davey Tree Expert Company
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer -
Ron Paydo
Huntington
Community President -
John Petures Jr.
Akron Community Foundation
President & CEO -
Kendra Philon*
Meadon & Moore
Senior Manager, Assurance Services -
Tony Prinzo
National Interstate Insurance
VP, Human Resources -
Tia Ramlow*
Great Work Employment
President -
Dr. Michael Robinson
Akron Public Schools
Superintendent -
Terry Robinson
Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC
Dean of Technical Learning & Outreach -
Ike Samson-Akpan Sr.
SAF, Inc.
President/Owner -
Dr. Jennifer Savitski*
Cleveland Clinic Akron General
Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology -
Honorable Ilene Shapiro
County of Summit
County Executive -
Shaleeta Smith
Akron Urban League Young Professionals
President -
Raymond Somich
Synthomer
Global Director, Government Affairs -
Erin Spring
The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Senior Director, Material Science -
Brian Steere
Steere Enterprises
Co-President -
Don Taylor
Welty
CEO -
Damian Thomas
The RCF Group
Market President -
Jason Tuma
Sikich LLP
Partner, Northeast Ohio Market Leader -
Andrew Twardzik
Ernst & Young LLP
Partner, Americas Deputy Risk Markets Leader -
Neille Vitale
Tri Mor Corp.
CEO -
Chris Walker
FirstEnergy Corp.
SVP, CHRO & Corp Services -
Rich Wallack
Medical Mutual
Regional Vice President, Northeast Region of Ohio -
Dan Weekley*
Enbridge Gas Ohio
President -
Zach Wemple
GOJO Industries, Inc.
Chief Human Resources Officer -
Katherine White
Torchbearers (YP)
Board Liaison -
Bernett L. Williams
Akron Children's Hospital
Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer; Vice President for Community Initiatives -
Steve Wilt
CAPTRUST
Principal, Financial Advisor
Business Owners Council
The business owner’s council is designed to ensure that the Chamber is appropriately focused on issues and programs specifically tailored to business owners in Greater Akron. This council is comprised of business owners and members from the Greater Akron region.
Diversity Professionals Council
Fostering inclusive economic growth relies on tapping into the expertise and perspectives of our region’s diversity professionals. The Diversity Professional Council convenes DEI and HR leaders regularly, providing a platform for collaborative brainstorming, problem-solving, and networking. Together, they drive forward their companies' and the region's diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, leveraging collective knowledge and experiences to create meaningful progress.
Economic Inclusion Committee
As the representative and convener of the business community in Greater Akron, the Chamber is focused on providing businesses with the tools, resources, and information necessary to become more inclusive, to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within their companies, and to support the growth of minority-owned companies. The Economic Inclusion Committee is focused on ensuring that the Chamber is meeting the needs of the business community in this space and working to advance inclusive growth in the region.
Government Affairs Committee
The GAC’s ability to effectively advocate on these issues is largely due to ongoing support and input from its Government Affairs Committee. This group is comprised of leaders from within business, nonprofit, higher education, and community-based organizations. This committee is, at its core, a tool that enables the GAC to understand members’ perspectives on relevant issues and collaboratively explore solutions. Doing this work is critical to the GAC’s ability to effectively advocate on our members’ behalf and provides us with a platform to collectively engage elected officials.
Polymer Industry Advisory Council
Greater Akron is the center of the world’s polymer industry and with support from the Polymer Industry Advisory Council (PIAC), the region continues to drive global innovation and shape the local economy. The PIAC convenes leaders from across the Polymer Industry Cluster to inform and guide the development of the Cluster; share ideas and strengthen relationships; and identify common challenges, develop shared solutions, and pursue collaborative projects that advance industry innovation and have a positive impact on the economy.
Supplier Diversity Procurement Council
The Supplier Diversity Procurement Council is a specialized initiative centered on promoting inclusivity and equity within procurement practices. This council is dedicated to championing a diverse supplier base by fostering opportunities for businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and individuals with disabilities. Through strategic planning, outreach programs, and advocacy efforts, the council seeks to expand supplier diversity, creating avenues for underrepresented businesses to participate in the procurement process. It aims to establish fair and inclusive supplier selection processes, offer support and resources to diverse suppliers, and collaborate with stakeholders to drive economic growth while fostering a more equitable and representative business landscape.
Women’s Network Leadership Institute Advisory Council
In October of 2019, Women’s Network and the Greater Akron Chamber memorialized an official Affiliation Agreement for the purpose of creating women’s programming within the Greater Akron Chamber. The Women’s Network Leadership Institute Advisory Council oversees the mission of the Women’s Network to Connect, Empower and Inspire through Best-in-Class Curriculum offerings, Research and Thought Leadership.
Our Chair's Circle represents our most significant investors and the drivers of our work.
Akron Children's
ACF
AT&T
BMF
BMF
Buckingham
CBIZ
CBRE
Charles Schwab
City of Akron
Cleveland Clinic Akron General
CLA
County of Summit
Continental
Eide Bailly
Enbridge
EY
FedEx
Fifth Third
First Energy
GAR
gojo
Goodyear
GPD Group
GreatWork
Huntington
JP Morgan Chase
Kaulig Companies Championship
KeyBank
Knight Foundation
Lumos
Magnet
Medical Mutual
Metis
Northeast Ohio Medical University
PVC
PNC Bank
Roetzel
S.A. Comunale
Shumaker
Sikich
Spectrum
State & Federal
Summa
Team-neo
University of Akron
United Way Summit-Medina
Vistra
Welty
Westfield Bank
Brian Anderson
Vice President, Polymer Industry Cluster
Brian Anderson
Brian Anderson is the Vice President of the Polymer Industry Cluster for the Greater Akron Chamber. Brian leads the Polymer Industry Cluster Initiative of Northeast Ohio, as well as the data and regional economic analysis functions of the organization. Prior to the Chamber, Brian worked at a wearable technology start-up and a Fortune 500 company. He decided to make a move because he wanted to contribute to an organization that he felt could improve the region and the lives of its residents.
Brian received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics at Emmanuel College in Boston where he was also a three-sport collegiate athlete. From there, he attended The University of Akron for his MBA, and University of Texas – San Antonio for his master’s degree in finance.
Brian and his wife Casey like to travel, cook, and are dedicated fans and season ticket holders of the University of Akron men’s soccer team.
Emily Baarson
Manager, Projects and Initiatives
ConxusNEO
Emily Baarson
Emily Baarson brings a unique range of experiences to ConxusNEO as Manager, Projects and Initiatives. Her 20-year career has been shaped by enabling community change through planning and economic development. In recent years, her work has focused on enhancing access to opportunity and improving workforce mobility. She is a creative collaborator who thrives on engaging with community partners to solve complex challenges and find creative funding to do so.
As the spouse of a retired military officer, Emily has lived and worked in many interesting places. While living with constant change could seem overwhelming to some, Emily saw her family’s moves as opportunities to learn, and flourished in the midst of change and the challenge of adapting to new situations.
Having experienced such a range of places and work environments, she gained first-hand knowledge of the importance of workplace policies that support adaptive thinking and life-work balance. In an era when more women hold advanced degrees than men, Emily sees a critical need to provide meaningful and flexible ways for women who frequently relocate or have changing family needs to contribute to the economy.
Originally from Northeast Ohio, Emily earned a Bachelor of Science in Botany/Environmental Science from Miami University (Ohio) and a Master of Urban Planning, Design and Development from Cleveland State University. After many years away, Emily and her family relocated to Ohio in 2019 to be closer to extended family and enjoy the great quality of life and incredible educational opportunities offered in the Buckeye State.
Jean Barbato
Senior Manager, Manufacturing Sector Partnership,
ConxusNEO
Jean Barbato
Jean brings 15 years of experience in higher education working with recruitment, advising and retention for non-traditional, adult completion programs, and grant management in workforce training and apprenticeships. She also has 35 years of experience as a small business owner and understands the difficulties and the importance of training and retaining employees.
At ConxusNEO, Jean is the Senior Manager of the Manufacturing Sector Partnership with oversight of the sector partnership, the U.S. Department of Labor Scaling Apprenticeship grant and the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Good Jobs Challenge program. Her responsibilities include collaborating with local community-based organizations who serve underrepresented, underserved people in the greater Akron region to provide training and to gain quality job opportunities for career growth.
Jean earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and a Master of Business Administration from Walsh University in North Canton, OH. She is on the Advisory Board for the Stark County’s Greater Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank Community Harvest program, is a member of the Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital Service League, and is the chair of the grant writing committee for Another Act of Kindness.
Hope Bell
Senior Manager, Community Partnerships
ConxusNEO
Hope Bell
ConxusNEO
Dedicated to fostering meaningful connections and driving positive change, Hope is a passionate workforce development advocate with a proven track record in the non-profit sector. Hope has an exceptional ability to build bridges between organizations, stakeholders, and communities. With a strong commitment to collaboration and community empowerment, she has consistently demonstrated her capacity to create impactful partnerships that drive collective success.
With extensive experience in workforce development, and 10 years of experience in strategic planning and program management, Hope has consistently championed programs that bridge the gap between education and employment. She has successfully conceptualized, developed, and executed innovative initiatives that equip individuals with the skills and confidence needed to excel in today’s competitive job market.
Hope holds a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication from Morehead State University and continues to pursue professional development opportunities to stay at the forefront of workforce development strategies and trends.
Hope’s vision revolves around creating a future where collaboration is not just a buzzword but a cornerstone of sustainable progress. She remains committed to exploring new avenues for partnerships, amplifying community-driven initiatives, and inspiring others to contribute to the collective well-being of the community.
Alyssa Carpenter
Director, Economic Development
Alyssa Carpenter
Alyssa Carpenter has a unique role, serving in a dual capacity as the Director of Economic Development for the Greater Akron Chamber and the Director of Business Development for Team NEO, focusing on the rubber, plastic and polymer industries serving Stark and Summit Counties. Alyssa views the work of economic development much like a puzzle with intersections of building relationships, problem solving, and pulling the partners in the public and private sectors together in order help our companies and communities grow and prosper.
For her work professionally, Alyssa earned the Ohio Economic Development, Ohio Certified Economic Developer certification. She also frequently presents as a guest speaker as part of the Ohio Economic Development (OEDA) programing on topics of economic and professional development, as well as more locally, via Team NEO’s NODE program.
Most of her time outside of work involves her kids, Caroline and Grant, and their school activities. Alyssa also enjoys entertaining and being outdoors.
Surendra Chawla
Consultant, Polymer Industry Cluster
Surendra Chawla
Surendra Chawla retired from The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company as a Senior Director of Global Innovation in 2018 after 40 years of service in different roles and responsibilities. He joined Goodyear in 1978 as a Senior Research Engineer in Corporate Research and rose through the ranks to Director and Head of the Goodyear Corporate Research from 2003 to 2008. In 2009, he was given the responsibility to lead Goodyear Open Innovation initiative. In this role, he championed the culture of open innovation in Goodyear, to explore, assess and internalize external technologies for sustainable product leadership and create new business opportunities in mobility solution space of Connected, Autonomous, Shared and Electrical (CASE) vehicles. He created a global R&D network of world-class universities, research institutes, national laboratories, open networks, suppliers, customers and start-ups; and successfully integrated dozens of new programs into Goodyear technology and product platforms. He is one of the founders of the Goodyear Institute of Technology (GIT) – “forum for tire related technologies”. Hundreds of Goodyear associates around the world have benefited from this opportunity to expand their knowledge and skill base. In January 2021, he joined Greater Akron Chamber as a consultant to support the Polymer Industry Cluster Initiative.
He has a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from India, Master’s and PhD from the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), Chicago, USA.
Michele Cook
Executive Assistant
Michele Cook
Michele Cook is the Executive Assistant for the Greater Akron Chamber. In her role, Michele works closely with GAC President & CEO Steve Millard to assist in keeping the executive committee and other leaders engaged, informed, and prepared for the Chamber’s work each day. This includes maintaining accurate contact records for the organization's boards, committees and task teams, as well as writing meeting minutes, and overseeing the distribution of materials in advance of board and committee meetings. She was driven to work for the Chamber because of their efforts to support the business community and her ambition to inspire kindness; both important aspects to her personally and professionally.
The City of Cuyahoga Falls once presented a hero award to Michele for an instance in which she utilized CPR to assist a man who’d fallen in the road after experiencing a heart attack. in the middle of the street. Michele stays in contact with the man today, demonstrating her affinity for compassion.
Michele likes to spend as much time outdoors as possible but doesn’t complain when she is stuck inside snuggling with her dog and cat. Family is very important to her, and she spends each Sunday together with them for family breakfast. She is most proud of her son, who is currently studying at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
Gregg P. Cramer
Vice President, Economic Development
Gregg Cramer
Gregg Cramer is the Vice President of Economic Development for the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role he manages the day-to-day economic development operations, including Attraction and Business Retention & Expansion. Gregg also works with our Elevate Greater Akron partners to oversee the collective effort to meet with 300+ companies on an annual basis. Along with the County of Summit and City of Akron, he also co-chairs the “Akron, USA” domestic/international marketing initiative.
Gregg is inspired by the fact that his father worked at B.F. Goodrich for 25 years in the same office complex currently occupied by the Chamber; he literally looks out the window at his father’s office every day. Gregg truly believes we are a unique community with a rich history and have a great story to tell.
Professionally, Gregg received his Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) certification from the National Development Council. He also honed his public speaking skills during his run for public office. For the record, his family prayed he would lose the race; he lost the race.
Without question, the defining characteristic of his life has been raising a child with Special Needs; in countless ways - personally and professionally - it has made him a more appreciative, better, and focused person. Other than chocolate, Gregg’s only vice is American muscle cars.
Sarah Deitrick
Project Manager
Sarah Deitrick
Sarah Deitrick is the Project Manager of the Polymer Industry Cluster for The Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, Sarah advances the work of the region’s industry partners by coordinating the Polymer Industry Advisory Council’s engagement in various economic development operations. This includes executing promotional events and conferences for the cluster, as well as surveying the Greater Akron business community to gather insights, perspectives, and challenges that help to shape the organizations’ efforts. She loves playing a part in meaningful work and chose to work at the Chamber in order to drive economic growth and prosperity within the community.
As a 3rd generation Akronite, Sarah is deeply connected to the region. She is most proud of founding her grassroots organization, Friends of Keyser-Swain Farmhouse in 2021, which advocates the historical significance, preservation, and selective restoration of the building. She is additionally proud to serve as President of Progress Through Preservation of Greater Akron, a volunteer non-profit organization.
When not at work, Sarah finds comfort in spending time with her daughter watching movies, exploring the trails of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, visiting museums, and attending concerts.
Robyn Durlin
Manager, Digital Marketing and Web Design
Robyn Durlin
Robyn Durlin is the Manager of Digital Marketing and Web Design for the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, Robyn creates graphics, designs, and other visual materials for the Chamber to use in its marketing and communications efforts. Robyn joined the Chamber team after 15 years in digital design for the retail advertising and marketing industries. She decided to step away from the corporate marketing world to join an organization where she could make a difference in her local community.
Originally from Maine, Robyn attended Lyndon State College (now Vermont State University) where she earned bachelor’s degrees in digital media and graphic design, before moving to Greater Akron in search of a more robust job market.
She now lives in Portage County with her husband and three cats, where she enjoys spending time outside kayaking, beach combing, hiking, and camping. Robyn also frequents concerts and likes to take trips to visit her family in New England.
Heather Flohr
Senior Manager, Business Operations
Heather Flohr
Heather is the Senior Manager, Business Operations at the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role she handles many responsibilities ranging from bookkeeping for the organization, human resource support for staff, as well as general office management. A couple years ago Heather chose to make a change in careers and join the Chamber after seeing the positive impact being made by the team in this region. She wanted to be a part of the change the Chamber was making in the community.
Heather is a proud Veteran of the United State Marine Corps, having served for eight years from 2004 – 2012, during that time she received various Medals and Letters of Commendations. Heather has a bachelor’s degree in social psychology from Park University and is a Certified Notary Public for the State of Ohio. She is also a graduate of Torchbearers Class of 2019 and served as the Co-Chair for Membership in 2020.
Outside of work her favorite things to do include hiking and reading. In 2020 she read over 140 books! She also likes to find volunteer opportunities she can share with her kids to get them immersed in their community. Heather lives in Copley with her husband, their three children, and their dog.
Halee Gerenday
Director, Marketing and Communications
Halee Gerenday
Halee Gerenday is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, she brings visibility to the work of the Chamber and our regional partners, and ensures our members stay connected to information that will support and strengthen their businesses. She chose to work at the Chamber because she wanted to support community growth and utilize the power of storytelling to showcase the people and businesses here in Greater Akron.
Halee received her bachelor’s degree in digital media journalism & sport communications from Ashland University. Professionally, she is a proud recipient of a first-place award for Best Reporter in Ohio by the Society of Professional Journalists in 2017 for her work with the Medina Gazette.
For Halee, home is in Medina County with her husband and son. She enjoys traveling and being outdoors – whether it’s reading a good book on her patio, camping at one of Ohio’s State Parks, snowboarding or walking the trail with her dogs.
Sante Ghetti
Vice President, Investor Engagement
Sante Ghetti
Sante is the Vice President of Investor Engagement for the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role he works to support our members goals, ensuring our members are connected, engaged, and supported in our shared work and mission. Sante chose the Greater Akron Chamber because he has a passion for supporting the business community and the region. His favorite part of his job is getting to know and working with people, he is always learning something new from everyone he meets.
Professionally, Sante has a unique background having previously working in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. He is particularly proud of his time working for The White House as well as raising money for pediatric cancer patients and survivors. A few awards he has received as recognition for his work have been 2014 COSE Staff Service Award, 2018 Catalyst of Leadership & Excellence (CLE) Award, and he was a member of the Leadership Cleveland Class of 2020.
Sante has a wife and two daughters that inspire him daily. While it’s his family that inspires him the most, he also enjoys golfing and traveling to anywhere that has a beach.
Jen Golembiewski
Senior Manager, Member Engagement
Jen Golembiewski
Jen Golembiewski is the Senior Manager of Investor Engagement at the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role she works to support our members’ goals, ensuring our members are connected, engaged, and supported in our shared work and mission. Jen chose to work with the Chamber to do what she can to help Greater Akron flourish; she wants to continue the legacy of her grandmother, who owned a steel factory in Akron and was very active in the community.
Prior to coming to the Chamber, Jen held various positions in management, business operations, and enrollment communications; she enjoys serving others and connecting people with the resources needed to advance their professional efforts. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communications and an MBA in integrated marketing from Walsh University.
Jen lives in Stark County with her husband and two children, who are Irish twins. She is a board member on her son’s wrestling team and loves to watch her children participate in sports and the performing arts. In her free time, she also enjoys boating, reading, bourbon, and watching football.
Ameeca Holmes
Senior Manager, Healthcare Sector Partnership
ConxusNEO
Ameeca Holmes
Ameeca is an Akron native and comes from a local hospital with 11 years of experience. Ameeca is passionate about community outreach efforts and has led many grant initiatives related to youth development, education, and public health issues focusing on maternal and child health. All of her previous work experiences have awarded her the knowledge and skills to raise awareness and facilitate beneficial programming in adverse communities.
Ameeca received her bachelor’s and Masters of Arts from Kent State University. At ConxusNEO, she will manage the Healthcare Sector Partnership and continue to foster and promote relationships in the community with local healthcare facilities to support workforce development opportunities.
Evan Laux
Manager, Content Creation
Evan Laux
Evan Laux is the Content Creation Manager for The Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, Evan develops various media for the Chamber and distributes it to members and other partners. This includes written marketing materials, social media posts, newsletters, podcasts, internal resources, event photography, and other media. Evan chose to work with the Chamber so that he could be better connected to the community and learn more about business development.
Evan graduated from Ashland University in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in digital media journalism and media production. In his first career experience prior to being with the Chamber, Evan worked for an automotive magazine where he reported on the high-performance engine building industry. He is proud of his experience attending and covering national racing events and interviewing CEOs from industry-leading companies like Rottler, Amsoil, King Engine Bearings, SBI, and Maxiforce.
He hails from the small town of Tiffin, Ohio, and moved to Akron directly after college. Throughout the year, Evan can be found playing volleyball with Summit Sports and Social, both at the downtown sand courts and the Pinnacle Sports facility in Fairlawn. He often frequents Blu Jazz+ and Musica to see local musicians, runs and bikes on the Summit Metroparks trails, and volunteers with Sawyers Wish.
Emily Lundgard
Vice President, Elevate Greater Akron
Emily Lundgard
Emily Lundgard is the Vice President of Elevate Greater Akron, the region’s collective economic development initiative. Emily’s deep passion for collaboration, civic service, and community is at work every day in her role convening and supporting the leaders of Elevate as they advance a shared vision and set of priorities to bring prosperity to Greater Akron. Approaching each day with a forward-thinking mindset is a necessity for Emily, who leads with authenticity and hard work.
Over the last 16 years, Emily has worked in the public, non-profit, and philanthropic sectors, bringing to bear her expertise in policy and advocacy, communications, strategy, and coalition building. She is most proud of launching the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition, serving as Cuyahoga County’s first special assistant for regional collaboration, and working to bring more housing affordability and stability to communities across Ohio.
Emily is Ohio born and raised. She is originally from Dayton, received her both bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from the Ohio University, and now lives in Northeast Ohio with her husband Loren. Outside of work, Emily can be found exploring cities, reading the next great American novel, or engaged in her local community where she volunteers as a youth soccer coach and serves on the Ohio City Incorporated Board of Directors.
Steve Millard
President & CEO
Steve Millard
Steve Millard is President and CEO of the Greater Akron Chamber. Steve was attracted to the Chamber in 2018 to become a part of an emerging new collaboration among economic development partners led by the County of Summit, the City of Akron, the GAR Foundation, and the Chamber’s Board leadership. The promise of an enterprise approach across disparate ecosystem partners to increase jobs, investment and opportunity for the region was a bold idea for the region and the business community that he wanted to be involved in creating.
That bold idea became the unique collaboration that is working to advance economic development in Greater Akron called Elevate Greater Akron. The commitment by more than 20 ecosystem partners working together to do the right things to drive growth and success for the region has allowed for stronger collaboration and impact for the region.
Prior to joining the Chamber in 2018, Steve spent more than 20 years leading in various roles in economic development including as the President and Executive Director of the Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE) and the Executive Vice President of the Greater Cleveland Partnership.
Professionally, Steve is a Certified Chamber Executive and has been recognized in a variety of ways for community leadership, Board service and professional contributions. Steve holds a B.S. in Finance, a B.S. in Transportation and Distribution Management from Syracuse University, and an M.B.A. from Case Western Reserve University. Prior to his work in Economic Development, he spent time at both GE Medical Systems (now GE Health Care) and Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) in supply chain operations and strategy consulting roles.
Steve currently serves on several boards including Leadership Akron, Summit Education Initiative, TeamNEO, ConxusNEO, Business Volunteers Unlimited, Downtown Akron Partnership, Downtown Akron Development Corporation and Medical Service Company.
Steve and his wife, Lisa, are proud to have a daughter, Lexie, who is a high school English teacher and a son, Ben, currently attending Marietta College. They live as the guests of three cats and two dogs who go out of their way to be perfectly good at doing absolutely nothing. Steve has no impressive hobbies or world adventures to brag about, but does have some bad habits like good bourbon, great scotch, and an occasional cigar that he is happy to share.
Elisha Murray
Office Coordinator
Elisha Murray
Elisha Murray is the Office Coordinator at the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role, Elisha oversees the scheduling, set-up and supplies associated with our event space, coordinates with vendors to keep the office well-stocked and well-organized, greets guests and connects them with the appropriate individual, and answers the main phone-line for member inquiries. She is energized and inspired by connecting with others and uses that passion to make the 388 Main St. office a welcoming and inviting space for employees, members, and other visitors.
Professionally, Elisha has a wide range of experience in Management and Sales and earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from The University of Akron. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Elisha and her husband opened their own landscaping business where she serves as Office Manager and Bookkeeper.
In her free time, Elisha enjoys going for walks on the Summit Metro Park trails or around her neighborhood. She is an avid Audiobook listener and loves books that focus on self-development, health, wellness, and spiritual enlightenment. Volunteering is also important to Elisha, who has helped with fundraising for the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Awareness Walk since 2008.
Brynn Popa
Executive Vice President
Brynn Popa
Brynn is the Executive Vice President for the Greater Akron Chamber. For the last 15 years, Brynn has been immersed in economic development work, where she has advanced public policy efforts impacting business, played leadership roles in the coordination of collaborative economic development partnerships and worked to enhance the climate for business success in Northeast Ohio. In her current role, Brynn oversees the many operational efforts as well as key strategic initiatives of the Greater Akron Chamber, including the Chamber’s work as the convener and collaborator for Elevate Greater Akron. Among all of her roles, perhaps one of her most prized is the one she plays as a leader of teams – identifying unique talent, helping people to harness their skills and advance the organization’s work in impactful ways. Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, Brynn is proud and humbled to have the opportunity to impact change in her hometown and is inspired by the collaborative spirit in the region, illustrated by the strong public private partnerships that make all his work a possibility.
Advancing the region’s potential is something Brynn strives to do both professionally and personally. She is a member of the Board of Directors for the Akron Civic Theater as well as the United Way Summit Medina. In 2011, Brynn was recognized for her work and leadership as a recipient of the Crain’s Cleveland 40 Under 40 Award. Brynn received her undergraduate degrees in Political Science and Sociology from John Carroll University and her Masters of Public Administration from Cleveland State University.
When she has the time, Brynn enjoys traveling, running, cooking and binge-watching Netflix series. She lives in Copley with her husband, Greg and two daughters.
Alexis Raineri
Coordinator, Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance
Alexis Raineri
Alexis Raineri is the Coordinator of the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance (ACAA), the joint advocacy-focused partnership between the Greater Akron Chamber and Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. In her role, Alexis creates Advocacy Update communications, helps manage the ACAA social media accounts, and works toward establishing the alliance’s public policy agenda. She chose to work with the Chamber to better learn the connection between communications work and public policy.
Prior to her work with the Chamber, Alexis worked as a barista at Barnes & Noble for five years while studying for her degree. In December 2023, she graduated summa cum laude as a Williams Honors College student from the University of Akron, where she studied public relations. She is most proud of her senior capstone, titled (Un)successful Use of Apologia: A Case Study of Mayor Schubert’s Resignation, which is published on IdeaExchange.
Alexis and her two-triplet brothers were born on Halloween – coincidentally, she is an avid reader of Stephen King and other horror/fantasy books series. She also enjoys hiking and baking.
Anna Richards
Senior Manager, Programs and Events
Anna Richards
Anna is the Senior Manager of Programs and Events at the Greater Akron Chamber. In this role she creates opportunities for our members to come together, make connections, and stay informed. Anna has always enjoyed bringing people together and helping others, so she chose the Chamber to be a part of an organization that connects people and businesses in the region.
Anna dedicates time to volunteering, especially with the University of Dayton Cleveland Alumni Community actively serving in the Akron Chair and Service Chair roles.
Outside of work, Anna loves to spend time with her husband and two boys. They enjoy crafting, traveling, kayaking, and baking.
John Rizzo
Vice President, Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance
John Rizzo
John Rizzo is the Vice President of the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance for the Chamber. In this role, he works to connect chamber members to key information on relevant political activities, convene regional stakeholders on pressing issues facing the business community, and advocate for identified solutions. Coming from a family of small business owners, John really enjoys working with companies to understand and pursue the various policies and opportunities they stand to benefit from. Although not every effort results in a “win”, he finds it rewarding to facilitate conversations that identify real issues and solutions and work to achieve tangible results on behalf of small businesses.
John Rizzo received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of Akron from which he is a proud alumnus. He also serves on several nonprofit committees and advisory boards within the region and participates on various panel discussions during advocacy-related events.
Coming from a large multicultural family, there is nothing John enjoys more than spending time with family, friends, and his dog, Bella. And, when Ohio’s weather permits it, he really enjoys cycling through Summit Metro Parks, golfing, and playing intramural sports.
Sheri Shields
Senior Manager, Small Business Engagement
We have identified the Board members that also participate on our Executive Committee with a * by their name.
| Name | Personal Title | Related Organization |
|---|---|---|
| Tyler Amos | VP - Sr. Financial Consultant, Akron Branch | Charles Schwab Corporate Services |
| Anne Armao | Vice President, Member Experience & Product Development | SummaCare |
| Dunja Augustin | Vice President of Operations | Vistra |
| Ken Babby | Owner & Chief Executive Officer | Akron RubberDucks |
| Elizabeth Bartz | President and CEO | State and Federal Communications, Inc. |
| Kristi Beeman | Regional Banker | Huntington National Bank |
| Warren Blazy | Senior Vice President | CBRE |
| Tami Bolder | Director, CBIZ Valuation Group | CBIZ, Inc. (CBIZ Mayer Hoffman McCann) |
| Julie Brandle* | President | Metis Construction Services LLC |
| Marie Brilmyer | Partner | Cohen & Company |
| Traci Buckner | Executive Director | Akron Children's Museum |
| Ren Camacho* | President and CEO | Akron-Canton Airport |
| Tony Costanzo | Director, External/Legislative Affairs | AT&T |
| Joe Daleiden | Sr. Vice President - Commercial Banking | KeyBank |
| Dr. Cliff Deveny* | President /CEO | Summa Health |
| Dr. Todd Diacon | President | Kent State University |
| Dawn Distler | Chief Executive Officer | METRO RTA |
| Marc Divis | President | Akron Energy Systems, LLC |
| Krista Dobronos | SVP, Consumer Banking Leader | Westfield Bank |
| Jason Dodson | Shareholder | Roetzel & Andress |
| Tracy Dowe | City President & Middle Market Team Leader - Akron/Canton/Youngstown | Fifth Third Bank |
| Laura Duda* | Senior Vice President & Chief Communications Officer | Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company |
| Gino Faciana | Co-CEO | Pleasant Valley Corporation - NAI Pleasant Valley |
| Craig Ferriot | President | Ferriot |
| J.R. Fowler | COO | S.A. Comunale |
| Rich Fry | Taxation Practice Group Leader | Buckingham Doolittle & Burroughs LLC |
| Val Geiger | Executive Director, Commercial Banking | JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. |
| Peter Geise | Akron Area President | FocusCFO |
| Chris Gessner | President & CEO | Akron Children's Hospital |
| Suzie Graham Moore | Director of Economic Development | City of Akron |
| Dwayne Groll* | CEO | Environmental Design Group, LLC |
| Dan Hampu | President & CEO | Burton D. Morgan Foundation |
| Dr. Brian Harte | President | Cleveland Clinic Akron General |
| Craig Hassinger | CEO and President | SeibertKeck Insurance |
| Gillianne Hetrick | Vice President, Human Resources & Corporate Operations | Babcock & Wilcox |
| John Higgins | Region Vice President | Spectrum |
| Dr. Para Jones* | President | Stark State College |
| Halle Jones Capers | President | Halle's Engineering & Design |
| Ethan Karp | President and CEO | MAGNET |
| Bill Koehler | Chief Executive Officer | Team NEO |
| Dr. John Langell* | President | Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) |
| Amanda Leffler | Akron Managing Partner | Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick |
| Erin Leppo Palmer | CFO & In-House Legal Counsel | Leppo, Inc. (Leppo Equipment/Bobcat of Akron) |
| Dr. Leia' Love | Chief Executive Officer | Leia' Love Hair & Nail Salon |
| Joe Luckring* | Regional President | PNC Bank |
| Mayor Shammas Malik | Mayor | City of Akron |
| Christine Mayer* | President | GAR Foundation |
| Jim Merklin | Partner | Bober Markey Fedorovich |
| Marc Merklin* | Shareholder | Roetzel & Andress |
| Steve Millard* | President & CEO | Greater Akron Chamber |
| Lakisha Miller-Barclay* | Executive Director & CEO | Rubber Division, ACS |
| Mike Morrison | Senior Director, Private Markets | GPD Group |
| Chuck Mullen | Partner, Great Lakes Market Leader | Eide Bailly |
| Jim Mullen | President & CEO | United Way of Summit and Medina |
| Chrissy Myers | CEO | AUI & Clarity HR |
| Brian Nelsen | Chief of Staff | County of Summit, Ohio |
| RJ Nemer | President | The University of Akron |
| Don Padgett | Executive Director | Kaulig Companies Championship |
| Roberta Palacio | Supply Chain Executive | Continental |
| B. Patel | Principal & Co-Founder | GHC Green Harvest Capital |
| Joe Paul | Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | The Davey Tree Expert Company |
| Ron Paydo | Market President | Huntington Bank |
| John Petures | President & CEO | Akron Community Foundation |
| Kendra Philon* | Vice President, Assurance Services | Meaden & Moore |
| Tony Prinzo | VP, Human Resources | National Interstate Insurance |
| Tia Ramlow* | President | Great Work Employment |
| Dr. Michael Robinson | Superintendent | Akron Public Schools |
| Terry Robinson | Dean of Technical Learning & Outreach | Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC |
| Ike Samson-Akpan | President/Owner | SAF, Inc. |
| Dr. Jennifer Savitski* | Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology | Cleveland Clinic Akron General |
| Executive Ilene Shapiro | County Executive | County of Summit, Ohio |
| Shaleeta Smith | President | Akron Urban League Young Professionals |
| Raymond Somich | Global Director, Government Affairs | Synthomer |
| Erin Spring | Senior Director, Material Science | The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company |
| Brian Steere | Co-President | Steere Enterprises |
| Don Taylor | CEO | Welty |
| Damian Thomas | Market President | The RCF Group |
| Jason Tuma | Partner, Northeast Ohio Market Leader | Sikich LLP |
| Andrew Twardzik | Partner, Americas Deputy Risk Markets Leader | Ernst & Young LLP |
| Neille Vitale | CEO | Tri Mor Corp. |
| Rich Wallack | Regional Vice President, Northeast Region of Ohio | Medical Mutual |
| Dan Weekley* | President | Enbridge Gas Ohio |
| Zach Wemple | Chief Human Resources Officer | GOJO Industries, Inc. |
| Katherine White | Board Liaison | Torchbearers (YP) |
| Bernett L. Williams | Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer; Vice President for Community Initiatives | Akron Children's |
| Steve Wilt | Principal, Finacial Advisor | CAPTRUST |
-
Tyler Amos
Charles Schwab Corporate Services
VP - Sr. Financial Consultant, Akron Branch -
Anne Armao
SummaCare
Vice President, Member Experience & Product Development -
Dunja Augustin
Vistra
Vice President, Operations -
Ken Babby
Akron RubberDucks
Owner & Chief Executive Officer -
Elizabeth Bartz
State and Federal Communications
President and CEO -
Kristi Beeman
Huntington National Bank
Regional Banker -
Warren Blazy
CBRE
Senior Vice President -
Tami Bolder
CBIZ, Inc.
Director, CBIZ Validation Group -
Julie Brandle*
Metis Construction Services LLC
President -
Marie Brilmyer
Cohen & Company
Partner -
Traci Buckner
Childrens Museum
Executive Director -
Ren Camacho*
Akron-Canton Airport
President & CEO -
Tony Costanzo
AT&T
Director, External Affairs -
Joe Daleiden
Key Bank
Sr. Vice President - Commercial Banking -
Dr. Cliff Deveny*
Summa Health
President & CEO -
Dr. Todd Diacon
Kent State University
President -
Dawn Distler
METRO RTA
Chief Executive Officer -
Marc Divis
Akron Energy Systems, LLC
President -
Krista Dobronos
Westfield Bank
SVP, Consumer Banking Leader -
Jason Dodson
Roetzel & Andress
Shareholder -
Tracy Dowe
Fifth Third Bank
City President & Middle Market Team Leader - Akron/Canton/Youngstown -
Laura Duda*
The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Senior Vice President & Chief Communications Officer -
Gino Faciana
Pleasant Valley Corporation - NAI Pleasant Valley
co-CEO -
Craig Ferriot
Ferriot
President -
J.R. Fowler
S.A. Comunale
COO -
Rich Fry
Buckingham Doolittle & Burrough
Taxation Practice Group Leader -
Val Geiger
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
Executive Director, Commercial Banking -
Peter Geise
Focus CFO
Akron Area President -
Chris Gessner
Akron Children's Hospital
President & CEO -
Suzie Graham Moore
City of Akron
Director of Economic Development -
Dwayne Groll*
Environmental Design Group
President -
Dan Hampu
Burton D. Morgan Foundation
President & CEO -
Dr. Brian Harte
Cleveland Clinic Akron General
President -
Craig Hassinger
SeibertKeck Insurance
President & CEO -
Gillianne Hetrick
Babcock & Wilcox
Vice President, Human Resources & Corporate Operations -
John Higgins Jr.
Spectrum
Regional Vice President -
Dr. Para Jones*
Stark State College
President -
Halle Jones Capers, P.E.
Halle's Engineering and Design
President -
Dr. Ethan Karp
MAGNET
President & CEO -
Bill Koehler
TeamNEO
Chief Executive Officer -
Dr. John Langell*
Northeast Ohio Medical University
President -
Amanda Leffler
Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick
Attorney-at-Law -
Erin Leppo Palmer
Leppo, Inc.
CFO & In-House Legal Counsel -
Dr. Leia Love
Leia Love Hair & Nail Salon
Chief Executive Officer -
Joe Luckring*
PNC Bank
Regional President -
Shammas Malik
Mayor
City of Akron -
Christine Mayer*
GAR Foundation
President -
Jim Merklin
Bober Markey Fedorovich
Partner -
Marc Merklin, Esq.*
Brouse McDowell
Partner -
Steve Millard*
Greater Akron Chamber
President & CEO -
Lakisha Miller-Barclay*
Rubber Division, ACS
Executive Director & CEO -
Mike Morrison
GPD Group
Senior Director, Private Markets -
Chuck Mullen
Apple Growth Partners
Chairman -
Jim Mullen
United Way of Summit and Medina Counties
President & Chief Executive Officer -
Chrissy Myers
AUI & Clairty HR
CEO -
Brian Nelsen
County of Summit, Ohio
Chief of Staff -
RJ Nemer*
The University of Akron
President -
Don Padgett
Kaulig Companies Championship
Executive Director -
Roberta Palacio
Continental
Supply Chain Executive -
B Patel
Green Harvest Capital
Principal & Co-Founder -
Joe Paul
The Davey Tree Expert Company
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer -
Ron Paydo
Huntington
Community President -
John Petures Jr.
Akron Community Foundation
President & CEO -
Kendra Philon*
Meadon & Moore
Senior Manager, Assurance Services -
Tony Prinzo
National Interstate Insurance
VP, Human Resources -
Tia Ramlow*
Great Work Employment
President -
Dr. Michael Robinson
Akron Public Schools
Superintendent -
Terry Robinson
Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC
Dean of Technical Learning & Outreach -
Ike Samson-Akpan Sr.
SAF, Inc.
President/Owner -
Dr. Jennifer Savitski*
Cleveland Clinic Akron General
Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology -
Honorable Ilene Shapiro
County of Summit
County Executive -
Shaleeta Smith
Akron Urban League Young Professionals
President -
Raymond Somich
Synthomer
Global Director, Government Affairs -
Erin Spring
The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Senior Director, Material Science -
Brian Steere
Steere Enterprises
Co-President -
Don Taylor
Welty
CEO -
Damian Thomas
The RCF Group
Market President -
Jason Tuma
Sikich LLP
Partner, Northeast Ohio Market Leader -
Andrew Twardzik
Ernst & Young LLP
Partner, Americas Deputy Risk Markets Leader -
Neille Vitale
Tri Mor Corp.
CEO -
Chris Walker
FirstEnergy Corp.
SVP, CHRO & Corp Services -
Rich Wallack
Medical Mutual
Regional Vice President, Northeast Region of Ohio -
Dan Weekley*
Enbridge Gas Ohio
President -
Zach Wemple
GOJO Industries, Inc.
Chief Human Resources Officer -
Katherine White
Torchbearers (YP)
Board Liaison -
Bernett L. Williams
Akron Children's Hospital
Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer; Vice President for Community Initiatives -
Steve Wilt
CAPTRUST
Principal, Financial Advisor
Business Owners Council
The business owner’s council is designed to ensure that the Chamber is appropriately focused on issues and programs specifically tailored to business owners in Greater Akron. This council is comprised of business owners and members from the Greater Akron region.
Diversity Professionals Council
Fostering inclusive economic growth relies on tapping into the expertise and perspectives of our region’s diversity professionals. The Diversity Professional Council convenes DEI and HR leaders regularly, providing a platform for collaborative brainstorming, problem-solving, and networking. Together, they drive forward their companies' and the region's diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, leveraging collective knowledge and experiences to create meaningful progress.
Economic Inclusion Committee
As the representative and convener of the business community in Greater Akron, the Chamber is focused on providing businesses with the tools, resources, and information necessary to become more inclusive, to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within their companies, and to support the growth of minority-owned companies. The Economic Inclusion Committee is focused on ensuring that the Chamber is meeting the needs of the business community in this space and working to advance inclusive growth in the region.
Government Affairs Committee
The GAC’s ability to effectively advocate on these issues is largely due to ongoing support and input from its Government Affairs Committee. This group is comprised of leaders from within business, nonprofit, higher education, and community-based organizations. This committee is, at its core, a tool that enables the GAC to understand members’ perspectives on relevant issues and collaboratively explore solutions. Doing this work is critical to the GAC’s ability to effectively advocate on our members’ behalf and provides us with a platform to collectively engage elected officials.
Polymer Industry Advisory Council
Greater Akron is the center of the world’s polymer industry and with support from the Polymer Industry Advisory Council (PIAC), the region continues to drive global innovation and shape the local economy. The PIAC convenes leaders from across the Polymer Industry Cluster to inform and guide the development of the Cluster; share ideas and strengthen relationships; and identify common challenges, develop shared solutions, and pursue collaborative projects that advance industry innovation and have a positive impact on the economy.
Supplier Diversity Procurement Council
The Supplier Diversity Procurement Council is a specialized initiative centered on promoting inclusivity and equity within procurement practices. This council is dedicated to championing a diverse supplier base by fostering opportunities for businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and individuals with disabilities. Through strategic planning, outreach programs, and advocacy efforts, the council seeks to expand supplier diversity, creating avenues for underrepresented businesses to participate in the procurement process. It aims to establish fair and inclusive supplier selection processes, offer support and resources to diverse suppliers, and collaborate with stakeholders to drive economic growth while fostering a more equitable and representative business landscape.
Women’s Network Leadership Institute Advisory Council
In October of 2019, Women’s Network and the Greater Akron Chamber memorialized an official Affiliation Agreement for the purpose of creating women’s programming within the Greater Akron Chamber. The Women’s Network Leadership Institute Advisory Council oversees the mission of the Women’s Network to Connect, Empower and Inspire through Best-in-Class Curriculum offerings, Research and Thought Leadership.
Our Chair's Circle represents our most significant investors and the drivers of our work.
Akron Children's
ACF
AT&T
BMF
BMF
Buckingham
CBIZ
CBRE
Charles Schwab
City of Akron
Cleveland Clinic Akron General
CLA
County of Summit
Continental
Eide Bailly
Enbridge
EY
FedEx
Fifth Third
First Energy
GAR
gojo
Goodyear
GPD Group
GreatWork
Huntington
JP Morgan Chase
Kaulig Companies Championship
KeyBank
Knight Foundation
Lumos
Magnet
Medical Mutual
Metis
Northeast Ohio Medical University
PVC
PNC Bank
Roetzel
S.A. Comunale
Shumaker
Sikich
Spectrum
State & Federal
Summa
Team-neo
University of Akron
United Way Summit-Medina
Vistra
Welty
Westfield Bank
Careers
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND GROWING GREATER AKRON
One voice for business really can make a difference –
especially when that voice represents thousands of businesses.
Join the Greater Akron Chamber and become active in the
Greater Akron Region’s dynamic business community.
the Chamber
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND
GROWING GREATER AKRON
One voice for business really can make a
difference – especially when that voice
represents thousands of businesses.
Join the Greater Akron Chamber and
become active in the Greater Akron Region’s
dynamic business community.
the Chamber
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND GROWING GREATER AKRON
One voice for business really can make a difference – especially when that voice represents thousands of businesses. Join the Greater Akron Chamber and become active in the Greater Akron Region’s dynamic business community.
