Akron, OH – The Greater Akron Chamber is excited to announce the recipients of the 2025 30 For the Future Awards. Since 2007, the Chamber has celebrated professionals aged 25-39 who demonstrate exceptional leadership and are making an impact on our region.
These honorees are recognized as the next generation of leaders who have the energy, vision, and commitment needed to carry Greater Akron into the future. In the workplace and beyond, these trailblazers are driving innovation, championing change, and redefining what leadership looks like.
Join us to honor and celebrate this year’s recipients on September 19, 2025, from 8:30-10:30 AM at the DoubleTree by Hilton Akron/Fairlawn. The event will feature a networking reception, breakfast, and a chance to learn more about and celebrate these remarkable leaders. Event details are available here.
- Leigh Ann Andreani, Playhouse Square
- Michelle Banis, The University of Akron
- Kofi Boakye, BlaBoak Ventures
- Chelsea C. Caspersen, A. Caspersen Company Inc.
- William Eugene Blake, Progressive Alliance Community Development Corporation
- Nathan Fulmer, Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs, LLC
- Kenneth Furdich, AxessPointe Community Health Centers
- Brandon H. Fredericks, Eide Bailly
- Brandy Harmon, Environmental Design Group
- Bryce Harris, Always Climbing Project
- Anna Huntsman, Ideastream Public Media
- Jeff Klemm, Mr. Jeff / Jeff Klemm Music LLC
- Giovanna Knudsen, MNT Wellness, LLC d/b/a Rogue Awakening d/b/a Altitude Social House
- Morgan L. Ferrell, Summit County Fiscal Office
- Kelly Le, Asian Services in Action
- Jessica Lynn, The Babcock & Wilcox Company
- Lauren Marsh, City of Akron – Mayor’s Office
- Rebecca Miklos, FirstEnergy
- Stephanie Onderko, GOJO Industries
- Raj Patel, MD, Akron Dermatology, Inc
- Rohan Paul, Kent State University
- Reilly Perme, PNC Bank
- Jess Rist, IBH Addiction Recovery
- Parikshit Sarda, Bridgestone America
- Kristen Swinehart, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
- Robert Szeles, Beese Fulmer Private Wealth Management
- Nathan Walden, Hope Soap/People Serving Hope
- Arkeyia Walker, AW Financials
- Dominique Waters, Akron Sneaker Academy Inc.
- Wendy Wood, United Way of Summit & Medina
“The Greater Akron region is fortunate to have such a dynamic and driven group of leaders shaping our future,” said Steve Millard, President and CEO of the Greater Akron Chamber. “This year’s honorees are already making a significant impact within their companies and organizations, and across our broader community. Their leadership, energy, and commitment inspire confidence in the road ahead. We celebrate their accomplishments, and we look forward to supporting their continued growth as they help lead our region’s ongoing vibrancy and success.
Honorees are selected based on several criteria, including their professional accomplishments, leadership, and community service. An independent selection committee facilitated by the Greater Akron Chamber selected the 30 finalists from a competitive pool of over 125 leaders, nominated by members of the Greater Akron Chamber, regional profit and non-profit organizations, and the community.