Issue No. 1 | April 14, 2023

Welcome to our first-ever newsletter, The Catalyst 

Welcome to The Catalyst, a newsletter designed to inform, inspire, and connect people and ideas across Ohio. The name "The Catalyst" reflects our desire to be a driving force in bringing people together, stimulating growth, and promoting positive change. Whether you're an alumni, partner, or supporter of our organization, this newsletter is a platform for you to stay engaged with what's happening across Leadership Ohio. So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy reading our new periodical - The Catalyst!

Leadership Ohio Appoints 35 Fellows to the Class of 2023

We are proud to announce the Class of 2023! This year's Fellows bring a wide range of expertise and distinguished service in the public and private sectors. "This is a distinguished group of accomplished individuals from all across the state,” said James W. Murray, president of the board of trustees, Leadership Ohio. “Ohio needs effective and civil leadership in today’s polarized society, and we are excited to welcome this diverse cross-sector cohort to Leadership Ohio today.” 

Newark, OH Chosen as Location to Host Opening Retreat 

The Class of 2023 will kick off at the opening retreat April 21-22 at Cherry Valley in Newark. Read the full news release here.

Downtown Newark, OH

Leaders On the Move

Leadership Ohio executive director Lisa Duty and Carmela Daniels (2021) were appointed to the board of directors for the Ohio Victim Witness Association (OVWA).

Shon Christy (2021) launched a new company, Fractional Social Pro, a first-of-its-kind national social media staffing company. 

Stéphanie McManus Renda (2019) started a new position as Vice President at Neighborhood Strategies.

Kendra Smith (2020) was named an honoree in the Women on the Rise category of the YWCA Northwest Ohio Milestones Awards.

Tony Staubach (2017) was named to Waste360’s 2023 40 Under 40 Award List. 

Congratulations to Carolyn Rice (2021), sworn in for a second term as Montgomery County Commissioner.

Chris Cutter (2022) and Brad Perkins (2022) were elected to the board of directors for Jobs for Ohio's Graduates (JOG).

Rick Stockburger (2021) of BRITE Energy Innovators, is quoted in The New York Times. 

Mark Greer (2022) Runs for Akron Mayor

Read one reporter's take on the race: Malik, Mosley, Greer offer best hopes for Akron's next mayor by H. Christensen in the Akron Beacon Journal.

Right: Mark Greer, Class of 2022

Ohio Impact Project Update: Earned Credit 

Senate Bill 288, the “criminal justice omnibus bill” was signed into law by Governor DeWine on January 3. One key provision included changes to Ohio’s Earned Credit process which was the focus of a 2022 Ohio Impact Project led by Rachel Gagnon, Rayshun Holt, Jocelyn Rosnick, Bryan Stewart, and Hillary Stewart. Read about the team's project here.

America 250-Ohio 

America 250-Ohio, led by Leadership Ohio president emeritus Todd Kleismit (2013), unveiled its new logo and billboard campaign in celebration of Ohio Statehood Day on March 2. Several Leadership Ohio alumni received appointments to the Commission which is charged with preparing for Ohio's participation in the nation's 250th anniversary in 2026: 

• State Senator Hearcel Craig (1998)
• Kelly Falcone Hall (2018)
• Mayor Sharetta Smith (2019)
• Mackensie Wittmer (2021).