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.