Board

Kristen Baird Adams

President

Kristen Baird Adams is Chief of Staff of PNC Bank’s national Office of the Regional Presidents, through which PNC and its regional presidents (RPs) deliver the company’s national Main Street bank model across more than 50 markets coast to coast. In this role, Baird Adams leads strategic initiatives; provides counsel and support to PNC’s 54 RPs and oversight of budgeting and operations. She also is accountable for driving internal cross-functional team partnerships that are critical to consistent delivery of the company’s Main Street mo... Kristen Baird Adams is Chief of Staff of PNC Bank’s national Office of the Regional Presidents, through which PNC and its regional presidents (RPs) deliver the company’s national Main Street bank model across more than 50 markets coast to coast. In this role, Baird Adams leads strategic initiatives; provides counsel and support to PNC’s 54 RPs and oversight of budgeting and operations. She also is accountable for driving internal cross-functional team partnerships that are critical to consistent delivery of the company’s Main Street model. Baird Adams also leads PNC’s Sponsorships and Women’s Business Development teams, and serves on the PNC Foundation Board of Directors and PNC’s Corporate Diversity Council.

Previously, Baird Adams served as PNC’s Chief Communications Officer, a role in which she successfully led the development and execution of internal and external communications strategies, including earned and social media, crisis communications and internal communications for PNC 53,000 employees, including those in response to COVID19, PNC’s response to national social justice issues and its acquisition of BBVA USA.

During her 17-year tenure with PNC, Baird Adams has also served as COO of the Office of the RPs, and as Client and Community Relations Director in Cleveland following PNC’s acquisition of National City. In that role, she helped lead the development and execution of local strategies for community relations, philanthropy, marketing and PR, sponsorships and employee engagement, including the local launch of PNC Grow Up Great and the concept development for the PNC Fairfax Connection.

Earlier in her career, Baird Adams served as the head of Corporate Communications for National City, and as a senior corporate communications leader at Robert Falls & Co. and FirstEnergy Corp. She began her career in journalism, including award winning work as a banking and utilities reporter for Crain's Cleveland Business.

Baird Adams is actively engaged in the community, serving as president of the City Club of Cleveland Board of Directors and as a member of the boards of CollegeNow Greater Cleveland, Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Greater Cleveland Sports Commission and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Baird Adams is a member of In Counsel With Women and the Leadership Cleveland Class of 2010.

She earned her bachelor's degree in journalism from The Ohio State University. continue

Colonel Harold V. Anderson

Colonel Harold V. Anderson of the United State Army Reserves (Retired) has spent 24 years as an educator in the East Cleveland City Schools. He enlisted into the Army Reserves in August 1987. He was commissioned a Second Lieutenant, Adjutant General Corps after graduating from University of Texas Pan American Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), Edinburg, Texas in 1992.

Serving with commitment and distinction, Col. Anderson discharged many assignments during his 33 years of active military service. His final assignment was Assi... Colonel Harold V. Anderson of the United State Army Reserves (Retired) has spent 24 years as an educator in the East Cleveland City Schools. He enlisted into the Army Reserves in August 1987. He was commissioned a Second Lieutenant, Adjutant General Corps after graduating from University of Texas Pan American Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC), Edinburg, Texas in 1992.

Serving with commitment and distinction, Col. Anderson discharged many assignments during his 33 years of active military service. His final assignment was Assistant Deputy G1, FORSCOM Fort Bragg, North Carolina June 2019- July 2021. Col. Anderson has been decorated with the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal four oak leaf clusters, Army Commendation Medal two oak leaf clusters, Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze star, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal two oak leaf clusters, Army Service Ribbon, and the Army Staff Identification Badge.

Col. Anderson is a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and holds a B.S. in Physical Education from UT Pan Am and a Master of Educational Leadership from UT Arlington. He serves as President of the Cleveland chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, where he helped to create the Thurgood Marshall Oratorical Debate Project, teaching leadership and debate skills to local high school students.

Col. Anderson and his wife Mitzi have two adult children Terence and Toni Anderson. They reside in Brook Park, Ohio. continue

Artis A. Arnold III

Artis Adolphus Arnold III is a Managing Director at Huntington National Bank in the Institutional Real Estate Group based in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Arnold joined Huntington in 2017 and has over 18 years of global advisory, capital raising, and institutional lending transaction experiences. His client base includes real estate investment trusts and real estate funds focused on investing in commercial real estate markets within the United States.

Outside of his financial services career, he is a minister at Bethany Baptist Church ba... Artis Adolphus Arnold III is a Managing Director at Huntington National Bank in the Institutional Real Estate Group based in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Arnold joined Huntington in 2017 and has over 18 years of global advisory, capital raising, and institutional lending transaction experiences. His client base includes real estate investment trusts and real estate funds focused on investing in commercial real estate markets within the United States.

Outside of his financial services career, he is a minister at Bethany Baptist Church based in Cleveland, Ohio and is an active life member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He received a degree in Applied Mathematics from Brown University in 1999 and his MBA from Massachusetts Institute of Technology Sloan School of Management in 2005.

He resides in Cleveland, Ohio in the historic Glenville community. continue

April Miller Boise

April Miller Boise is executive vice president and chief legal officer at Intel Corporation. She leads Intel’s global legal, trade and government affairs team, and acts as a strategic adviser to the Intel executive leadership team and board of directors.

Prior to joining Intel in July 2022, Miller Boise was executive vice president and chief legal officer at Eaton Corp. Before joining Eaton in 2020, she served as senior vice president, chief legal officer and corporate secretary for Meritor Inc.

Miller Boise has mo... April Miller Boise is executive vice president and chief legal officer at Intel Corporation. She leads Intel’s global legal, trade and government affairs team, and acts as a strategic adviser to the Intel executive leadership team and board of directors.

Prior to joining Intel in July 2022, Miller Boise was executive vice president and chief legal officer at Eaton Corp. Before joining Eaton in 2020, she served as senior vice president, chief legal officer and corporate secretary for Meritor Inc.

Miller Boise has more than 25 years’ experience serving in various executive leadership roles, including general counsel, head of global mergers and acquisitions, and corporate secretary. Earlier in her career, Miller Boise practiced on Wall Street and later led the largest office of an AmLaw 200 law firm as managing partner and was a member of the firm’s executive committee. She has worked with companies across industries including aerospace, electrical products and services, financial services, commercial transportation, automotive, mining, and oil and gas.

Miller Boise holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Chicago Law School and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan Business School. She is a member of the board of directors of Trane Technologies. continue

Terry Brennan

Terry Brennan is the Litigation Coordinator for BakerHostetler's Cleveland office, with practice management responsibility for more than 40 litigation attorneys. He focuses his practice on complex business litigation and corporate criminal matters, representing banks, manufacturers, and other public and private corporations and individuals in a wide range of complex commercial disputes. In his white collar practice, Terry represents individuals and businesses in connection with investigations and prosecutions conducted by the DOJ, SEC, FDA, and... Terry Brennan is the Litigation Coordinator for BakerHostetler's Cleveland office, with practice management responsibility for more than 40 litigation attorneys. He focuses his practice on complex business litigation and corporate criminal matters, representing banks, manufacturers, and other public and private corporations and individuals in a wide range of complex commercial disputes. In his white collar practice, Terry represents individuals and businesses in connection with investigations and prosecutions conducted by the DOJ, SEC, FDA, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies. He conducts internal investigations on behalf of corporate clients, lectures annually on effective depositions and has served as a state-appointed special prosecutor. continue

Louis A. Chaiten

Co-Chair, Program Committee

Louis Chaiten is a partner at Jones Day. His practice focuses on appellate matters, class action defense, and financial institutions litigation. He is co-leader of Professional Services for the Firm. He has argued before the U.S. Supreme Court and numerous federal and state trial and appellate courts. He also commits substantial time to pro bono work.

Louis previously clerked on the U.S. Supreme Court (for Justice Antonin Scalia) and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit (for Judge Jeffrey Sutton). He also served in ... Louis Chaiten is a partner at Jones Day. His practice focuses on appellate matters, class action defense, and financial institutions litigation. He is co-leader of Professional Services for the Firm. He has argued before the U.S. Supreme Court and numerous federal and state trial and appellate courts. He also commits substantial time to pro bono work.

Louis previously clerked on the U.S. Supreme Court (for Justice Antonin Scalia) and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit (for Judge Jeffrey Sutton). He also served in the Office of Legal Counsel at the U.S. Department of Justice, which is responsible for advising the president, the attorney general, and other executive branch officials on complex issues of constitutional, statutory, and international law.

Louis was appointed to the Life Member Committee of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. He also serves on the board of directors of the Jewish Education Center of Cleveland. continue

Kevin Clayton

Kevin Clayton is Senior Vice President, Head of Social Impact and Equity for the Cleveland Cavaliers of the NBA. He is responsible for developing and leading the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion strategic plan for Rock Entertainment Group, which includes the Cavs, Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland Charge, Cleveland Monsters and Cavs Legion Gaming Club. He also oversees the Cavs Community Relations team and the Cavaliers Community Foundation.

Clayton previously held senior level DEI positions at Russell Athletic/Spalding, Bon Sec... Kevin Clayton is Senior Vice President, Head of Social Impact and Equity for the Cleveland Cavaliers of the NBA. He is responsible for developing and leading the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion strategic plan for Rock Entertainment Group, which includes the Cavs, Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland Charge, Cleveland Monsters and Cavs Legion Gaming Club. He also oversees the Cavs Community Relations team and the Cavaliers Community Foundation.

Clayton previously held senior level DEI positions at Russell Athletic/Spalding, Bon Secours Mercy Health, United States Tennis Association and the American Cancer Society, as well as was managing partner of JumpBall LLC, an entity he founded in 2012. He is currently Vice Chair of the Greater Cleveland Urban League, and also a Board Member at United Way of Greater Cleveland and Community Health Charities (CHC).

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Clayton is an alum of North Carolina Central University and Wilmington College Ohio, where he was a member and captain of the basketball team. continue

Robert Falls

Rob is Founder, Chairman and CEO of Falls & Co, the purpose-driven, full-service, strategic, marketing agency based in Cleveland, Ohio.

He is considered a valued and trusted advisor to many corporate, governmental, and civic leaders. He is known as a strategic thinker as well as recognized for his creative ideas and approaches in finding solutions. Prior to his extensive 40-year agency career, Falls was a senior staffer on Capitol Hill. He also managed and consulted on congressional campaigns across the country.
Rob is Founder, Chairman and CEO of Falls & Co, the purpose-driven, full-service, strategic, marketing agency based in Cleveland, Ohio.

He is considered a valued and trusted advisor to many corporate, governmental, and civic leaders. He is known as a strategic thinker as well as recognized for his creative ideas and approaches in finding solutions. Prior to his extensive 40-year agency career, Falls was a senior staffer on Capitol Hill. He also managed and consulted on congressional campaigns across the country.

Rob has served as a board member or chairman on more than a dozen community, professional, civic boards including Public Relations Organisation Internationalé (PROI), the Greater Cleveland Film Commission, Global Cleveland, Achievement Centers for Children and Minds Matter. Currently, Rob serves as a board member of Destination Cleveland, The City Club of Cleveland, The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and serves as a senior advisor to many other community, civic and charity organizations. He is an accredited member (APR) of the Public Relations Society of America and a past president of the organization’s Detroit Chapter. He received the PRSA Lighthouse Award, which recognized his career accomplishments and dedication to the community. He has also been recognized as one of Cleveland’s business and marketing leaders by several organizations and publications.

Falls & Co. has won more than 400 marketing-related awards and has grown to have more than 80 professionals serving more than 80 clients. Falls & Co. is one of the fastest growing firms in the Midwest and has been named by Forbes as one of America’s Best PR Agencies.

Rob began his career as a journalist, a stringer, writer and columnist for several newspapers and magazines and earned his master’s degree in journalism from Michigan State University and his undergraduate degree in English from Western Michigan University. continue

Judi Feniger

Judi Feniger is a Consultant who retired from her position as President and Executive Director of Gordon Square Arts District (GSAD), a unique collaboration between Near West Theater, Cleveland Public Theater, and the Detroit Shoreway Community Development Organization. In this role, she oversaw the revitalization of the neighborhood into an economic cornerstone of Cleveland’s West Side. This renaissance has driven an estimated $500M+ in economic impact within the surrounding community.

Prior to Gordon Square Arts District, Judi... Judi Feniger is a Consultant who retired from her position as President and Executive Director of Gordon Square Arts District (GSAD), a unique collaboration between Near West Theater, Cleveland Public Theater, and the Detroit Shoreway Community Development Organization. In this role, she oversaw the revitalization of the neighborhood into an economic cornerstone of Cleveland’s West Side. This renaissance has driven an estimated $500M+ in economic impact within the surrounding community.

Prior to Gordon Square Arts District, Judi served as Executive Director of the Maltz Museum and prior to that, she was the Chief Public Support Officer of the American Red Cross.

As a successful leader and active member of the community, she is has received the following awards and honors: YWCA Women of Achievement, SBN Visionary, PRSA Lighthouse Award for Career Achievement, American Red Cross CEO Award, Crain’s Cleveland Business Women of Influence and Beachwood High School Gallery of Success.

Judi holds a bachelor’s in Business Management/Marketing from Notre Dame College. continue

Eric M. Fiala

Eric Fiala is Head of Corporate Responsibility and Community Relations at KeyBank. Eric oversees Community Investment Data and Strategy, Community Relations and Corporate Initiatives, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), Philanthropy, and Civic Engagement.

Fiala joined Key in 2002 and has held roles of increasing responsibility. Prior to his current role, he led KeyBank’s Client Insights and Analytics organization as part of KeyBank’s Corporate Center. In this role, he provided critical business analytics and market res... Eric Fiala is Head of Corporate Responsibility and Community Relations at KeyBank. Eric oversees Community Investment Data and Strategy, Community Relations and Corporate Initiatives, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), Philanthropy, and Civic Engagement.

Fiala joined Key in 2002 and has held roles of increasing responsibility. Prior to his current role, he led KeyBank’s Client Insights and Analytics organization as part of KeyBank’s Corporate Center. In this role, he provided critical business analytics and market research in support of line of business revenue and profitability strategies. This also included insights to support Key’s Product, Marketing, Client Experience and Channel teams, including Contact Center, Digital and Branch.

Fiala also served as Consumer Bank Chief Financial Officer. His responsibilities included the financial management, planning and forecasting for the Consumer Bank. Prior to that, he served as CFO for the Rocky Mountain and Great Lakes Regions, with accountability for budgeting and forecasting of regional P&Ls. In 2012, Fiala led Key’s efforts to strategically enhance data and analytics capabilities, which resulted in the creation of Key’s Analytics Center of Expertise.

Fiala earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Miami University. He is also a board member of Jumpstart and The MetroHealth Foundation. continue

Paul N. Harris

Paul N. Harris retired in 2020 from his position as Secretary and General Counsel of KeyCorp, where he oversaw the corporation’s legal and government relations functions and served on the executive committee.

Prior to joining KeyCorp in 2003, Paul served as partner-in-charge of the Cleveland office of Thompson Hine LLP where he managed significant client relationships and oversaw the office’s community and charitable support programs and administrative operations. Paul joined Thompson Hine in 1983 and practiced in the firm’... Paul N. Harris retired in 2020 from his position as Secretary and General Counsel of KeyCorp, where he oversaw the corporation’s legal and government relations functions and served on the executive committee.

Prior to joining KeyCorp in 2003, Paul served as partner-in-charge of the Cleveland office of Thompson Hine LLP where he managed significant client relationships and oversaw the office’s community and charitable support programs and administrative operations. Paul joined Thompson Hine in 1983 and practiced in the firm’s Corporate and Securities practice group before leaving the firm in 1988 to join Revco D.S., Inc. (now CVS), where he was elected as an executive officer in 1993. He rejoined Thompson Hine in 1997.

Paul received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Chicago and his jurisprudence degree from Stanford Law School. continue

Kelly M. Jasko

Kelly M. Jasko is Vice President of Corporate Communications at Eaton. Previously, she was Director of Communications for the Industrial Sector. Kelly joined Eaton as Manager of External Communications in February 2006.

Prior to Eaton, she worked for the International Paper Company for nearly eight years in a series of progressively responsible communications assignments in corporate and manufacturing operations.

Kelly, a native of Canton, Ohio, holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo in Ohio and ... Kelly M. Jasko is Vice President of Corporate Communications at Eaton. Previously, she was Director of Communications for the Industrial Sector. Kelly joined Eaton as Manager of External Communications in February 2006.

Prior to Eaton, she worked for the International Paper Company for nearly eight years in a series of progressively responsible communications assignments in corporate and manufacturing operations.

Kelly, a native of Canton, Ohio, holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo in Ohio and a master’s degree in communications from Marist College in New York. continue

Sharon Sobol Jordan

Sharon Sobol Jordan is the President & CEO of United Way of Greater Cleveland. She is the founder and CEO of OpenSpace Solutions LLC, where she has advised and helped transformational leaders and organizations turn moments of change into opportunities to reimagine what’s possible. Before OpenSpace, Sharon served as president and board member at Unify Labs, where she helped its co-founders and supported the organization in launching this nonprofit tech innovation center with the mission of powering inclusive prosperity.

Prior to ... Sharon Sobol Jordan is the President & CEO of United Way of Greater Cleveland. She is the founder and CEO of OpenSpace Solutions LLC, where she has advised and helped transformational leaders and organizations turn moments of change into opportunities to reimagine what’s possible. Before OpenSpace, Sharon served as president and board member at Unify Labs, where she helped its co-founders and supported the organization in launching this nonprofit tech innovation center with the mission of powering inclusive prosperity.

Prior to that, she was Chief of Staff for Cuyahoga County, a position she began January 2015. She served as President and CEO of The Centers for Families and Children, a Cleveland-based, nonprofit human services organization, and worked as the organization's Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel under then-CEO Lee Fisher, who later became Ohio's lieutenant governor.

Sharon also serves on the boards for the Bruening Foundation, Cleveland Jewish News, Cleveland Transformation Alliance, PolicyBridge, Temple Tifereth Israel, and University Hospitals East Market regional board. She is a leader-in-residence at the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. She is also a member of the Leap of Reason Ambassador Community, In Counsel with Women, and Leadership Cleveland Class of 2003.

Among her many awards and honors, she was named a Crain’s Cleveland Business Woman of Note, YWCA Woman of Achievement, Smart Business Smart 50 leader in Northeast Ohio, Nortech’s Innovative Leader of the Year, and an EY Entrepreneur of the Year finalist, and received the Ohio Glass Ceiling Award from Ohio Diversity Council.

A Cleveland native, Jordan holds a Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration from The Ohio State University and a Bachelor of Science from Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs. continue

David M. Kall

Dave Kall is Managing Partner of the McDonald Hopkins, LLC Cleveland office, vice chair of the Tax and Benefits Department, chair of the Multistate Tax Practice Group, and chair of the Capital Markets Practice Group within the firm’s Business Department. As chair of the Capital Markets Practice Group, Dave spends a considerable amount of time counseling early and growth-stage companies, capital providers and entrepreneurs in a vast array of legal areas.

Prior to joining the firm in 1996, Dave was a senior tax manager at Coopers... Dave Kall is Managing Partner of the McDonald Hopkins, LLC Cleveland office, vice chair of the Tax and Benefits Department, chair of the Multistate Tax Practice Group, and chair of the Capital Markets Practice Group within the firm’s Business Department. As chair of the Capital Markets Practice Group, Dave spends a considerable amount of time counseling early and growth-stage companies, capital providers and entrepreneurs in a vast array of legal areas.

Prior to joining the firm in 1996, Dave was a senior tax manager at Coopers & Lybrand LLP. While at Coopers & Lybrand LLP, Dave was responsible for providing advice to publicly traded and large privately held companies on a wide range of technical issues, including corporate, partnership, and REIT taxation.

Dave earned a J.D., with honors, from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law in 1993. He received a B.A., summa cum laude, with Distinction in Political Science and Honors in the Liberal Arts, from The Ohio State University in 1989. continue

Shana F. Marbury

Shana F. Marbury, Esq. is Executive Vice President of Workforce, Community and Economic Development (WCED) at Cuyahoga Community College. She was previously General Counsel and Senior Vice President for Education and Workforce for the Greater Cleveland Partnership (GCP), where she oversaw legal affairs and led the organizational strategic priorities for education, talent, and workforce development. She focused on partnering on collaborative community projects, such as drafting and implementation of “Cleveland’s Plan for Transforming Schools... Shana F. Marbury, Esq. is Executive Vice President of Workforce, Community and Economic Development (WCED) at Cuyahoga Community College. She was previously General Counsel and Senior Vice President for Education and Workforce for the Greater Cleveland Partnership (GCP), where she oversaw legal affairs and led the organizational strategic priorities for education, talent, and workforce development. She focused on partnering on collaborative community projects, such as drafting and implementation of “Cleveland’s Plan for Transforming Schools” and engaging in the work of the Cleveland Transformation Alliance, which assesses the quality of public schools in Cleveland. Shana also guided GCP efforts in developing college and career readiness in high school and college students.

Prior to her employment at the GCP, Shana worked as a consultant in the areas of diversity and inclusion. Before consulting, Shana worked as a labor, employment, and school law attorney. Shana currently serves on the CMSD Nominating Panel, the Friends of Max S Hayes High School Advisory Board, the Fenn Educational Fund Advisory Committee, and is a former member of the City Club of Cleveland Forum Foundation Board.

Shana received her JD from Tulane and her BA at Tufts University in sociology and political science. continue

John J. McGuire

Vice President & Chair, Governance Committee

John J. McGuire is a partner in Calfee's M&A and Corporate practice groups. He specializes in consummating mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and divestitures for a wide range of companies and industries. His experience with private equity funds, startup entities and commercial financings enables him to assist clients with the legal aspects of capital raising initiatives in both up and down rounds. He counsels startup companies with respect to entity selection and formation, buy-sell agreements and management agreements. John works closely w... John J. McGuire is a partner in Calfee's M&A and Corporate practice groups. He specializes in consummating mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and divestitures for a wide range of companies and industries. His experience with private equity funds, startup entities and commercial financings enables him to assist clients with the legal aspects of capital raising initiatives in both up and down rounds. He counsels startup companies with respect to entity selection and formation, buy-sell agreements and management agreements. John works closely with Calfee's estate planning attorneys to maximize the benefits for future generations in ownership successions and exit events. His practice also includes negotiation of borrower-side commercial financings and loan transactions.

John serves as corporate secretary for several privately-held companies, including Eatem Foods and Meister Media Worldwide. John is also Chair of the Governance Committee for Edwin’s Leadership and Restaurant Institute, on whose board he has served for several years. He began his tenure with Calfee in 1998 and became a partner in 2008. continue

Hugh E. McKay

Hugh E. McKay is Commercial Litigator and Partner-in-Charge for the Cleveland Office of Porter Wright. He has extensive experience representing corporate clients and financial institutions in complex commercial litigation in state and federal courts. He has successfully represented several Fortune 500 companies in major litigation, trying cases to successful jury verdicts. Hugh has been consistently listed in The Best Lawyers in America and is recognized as an Ohio Super Lawyer. He is recognized by Chambers USA as one of Ohio's leading attorney... Hugh E. McKay is Commercial Litigator and Partner-in-Charge for the Cleveland Office of Porter Wright. He has extensive experience representing corporate clients and financial institutions in complex commercial litigation in state and federal courts. He has successfully represented several Fortune 500 companies in major litigation, trying cases to successful jury verdicts. Hugh has been consistently listed in The Best Lawyers in America and is recognized as an Ohio Super Lawyer. He is recognized by Chambers USA as one of Ohio's leading attorneys in Commercial Litigation and is AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell. In 2006, Hugh became President of the Cleveland Bar Association and his 3 Rs initiative in partnership with the Cleveland metropolitan School District has won number awards and become a national model. continue

Michelle Najda

Michelle Najda is a seasoned professional with more than 25 years of nonprofit development and management experience, Michelle joined the Cleveland Clinic in 2022, where she serves as Executive Director of the Ohio Market fundraising team for the Cleveland Clinic Philanthropy Institute. In this role, she offers strategic philanthropic consultation to individuals, families, corporations and foundations that aim to deepen their learning, giving and engagement with Cleveland Clinic.

Previously, she spent ten years at Cleveland Founda... Michelle Najda is a seasoned professional with more than 25 years of nonprofit development and management experience, Michelle joined the Cleveland Clinic in 2022, where she serves as Executive Director of the Ohio Market fundraising team for the Cleveland Clinic Philanthropy Institute. In this role, she offers strategic philanthropic consultation to individuals, families, corporations and foundations that aim to deepen their learning, giving and engagement with Cleveland Clinic.

Previously, she spent ten years at Cleveland Foundation helping donors identify and achieve their charitable giving interests and goals and nearly nine years at Case Western Reserve University, where she played an instrumental role on the leadership team that successfully launched the university’s $1.5 billion capital campaign. continue

August A. Napoli, Jr.

Augie Napoli retired in 2022 from his position as President & Chief Executive Officer of United Way of Greater Cleveland, a position he assumed in June, 2016. Prior to joining United Way, Augie served from 2010-2016 as Deputy Director and Chief Advancement Officer of the Cleveland Museum of Art where he oversaw the campaign in support of the historic renovation and new construction of its University Circle facility and lead the Division of Institutional Advancement. Augie has forty years of nonprofit executive experience in the northeast Ohio r... Augie Napoli retired in 2022 from his position as President & Chief Executive Officer of United Way of Greater Cleveland, a position he assumed in June, 2016. Prior to joining United Way, Augie served from 2010-2016 as Deputy Director and Chief Advancement Officer of the Cleveland Museum of Art where he oversaw the campaign in support of the historic renovation and new construction of its University Circle facility and lead the Division of Institutional Advancement. Augie has forty years of nonprofit executive experience in the northeast Ohio region.

He led institutional advancement activities at several institutions including Baldwin Wallace University, Cleveland State University, Catholic Diocesan Foundation, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Summa Foundation, and Catholic Charities Corp. In addition, he created the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland Foundation and served as its first President and CEO. Augie is a graduate of Franciscan University. He is currently affiliated with numerous professional and community organizations. He is a past President of AMDA (Art Museum Development Association) 2014-2015, and is currently affiliated with numerous professional and community organizations including the Board of Directors of the Cleveland Council on World Affairs, DigitalC, and The Temple-Tifereth Israel. continue

Leta Obertacz

Leta Obertacz is a 20-year fundraising veteran who currently serves as the Senior Vice President for Advancement at the Cleveland Foundation. Prior to joining the Cleveland Foundation, she served as director of advancement for the Cleveland Zoo Society, where she led numerous highly successful fundraising campaigns dedicated to the best quality animal care, education, and meaningful guest experiences.

Prior to her work at the Zoo Society, Leta spent several years as a fundraising and marketing executive at Career Gear, a nonprofit... Leta Obertacz is a 20-year fundraising veteran who currently serves as the Senior Vice President for Advancement at the Cleveland Foundation. Prior to joining the Cleveland Foundation, she served as director of advancement for the Cleveland Zoo Society, where she led numerous highly successful fundraising campaigns dedicated to the best quality animal care, education, and meaningful guest experiences.

Prior to her work at the Zoo Society, Leta spent several years as a fundraising and marketing executive at Career Gear, a nonprofit whose mission is to provide the formerly incarcerated, homeless and veterans with the tools and skills they need to successfully achieve reentry and financial independence.

Leta earned a BA in history with honors from Brown University and a MPA, Pi Alpha Alpha, from Baruch College. She is also a dedicated community volunteer, serving as the co-vice president and advancement chair for EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute and the founding board president for Motogo, a nonprofit that teaches students how to solve problems and build confidence through working on motorcycles.

In Spring 2022, she was recognized as one of Cleveland Magazine’s Women of Distinction. continue

Kaye Ridolfi

Kaye Ridolfi is Vice President, Development at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. An experienced development professional, she has spent more than three decades in the field. Prior to joining the Rock Hall, Kaye served as Senior Vice President, Advancement for the Cleveland Foundation from 2011-2022.

Previous positions include Associate Vice President of Institutional Development and Campaign Director for Case Western Reserve University; Assistant Vice President for Major Gifts at The Ohio State University; and Director of Development... Kaye Ridolfi is Vice President, Development at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. An experienced development professional, she has spent more than three decades in the field. Prior to joining the Rock Hall, Kaye served as Senior Vice President, Advancement for the Cleveland Foundation from 2011-2022.

Previous positions include Associate Vice President of Institutional Development and Campaign Director for Case Western Reserve University; Assistant Vice President for Major Gifts at The Ohio State University; and Director of Development for Ohio Wesleyan University. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) recognized Kaye as Fundraiser of the Year in 2019.

Kaye holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Ohio Wesleyan and a master’s degree in public policy and management from Ohio State. continue

Mark Ross

Mark Ross retired in 2020 from his position as the Managing Partner for PwC in Northeast Ohio. He began his career with PwC in Cleveland as an audit associate in 1987 after graduation from Miami University. Mark transferred into the Firm’s Transaction Services (TS) practice to focus on M&A Advisory services where he was promoted to Senior Manager and ultimately Partner in 1999. While working for PwC, Mark earned an MBA from the Manchester Business School in the UK and then spent five years as the leader of the Florida TS practice located in ... Mark Ross retired in 2020 from his position as the Managing Partner for PwC in Northeast Ohio. He began his career with PwC in Cleveland as an audit associate in 1987 after graduation from Miami University. Mark transferred into the Firm’s Transaction Services (TS) practice to focus on M&A Advisory services where he was promoted to Senior Manager and ultimately Partner in 1999. While working for PwC, Mark earned an MBA from the Manchester Business School in the UK and then spent five years as the leader of the Florida TS practice located in Miami. Prior to returning to Cleveland, Mark led the TS West Region practice for four years in San Francisco, responsible for territories from Texas to the West Coast.

Mark relocated to Cleveland in 2015 to become the Managing Partner of PwC’s Cleveland office. In this role, Mark is responsible to lead, promote teaming and drive growth across the market, as well as to manage several significant local client relationships. He is also a member of the Firm’s Extended Leadership Team. Externally, Mark is charged with being the face of the Firm in the market, business, community, and civic affairs.

Mark is actively engaged in several civic organizations in the Cleveland area and serves on a number of boards that align with his passions and priorities. Currently, Mark serves as the Board Chair for College Now of Greater Cleveland during this critical time for education in our community. Mark is a board member of Playhouse Square where he chairs the Community Engagement and Education Committee. Mark also serves on the Board of the Greater Cleveland Partnership where he helps lead current initiatives around innovation in Northeast Ohio. Enhancing our community’s efforts around diversity & inclusion is one of Mark’s priorities and he is a board member of the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio as well as the Commission on Economic Inclusion. Finally, Mark serves on the Board of Hospice of the Western Reserve and as an active Steering Committee member for VeloSano, the Cleveland Clinic’s ride for cancer research. Mark is a member of the The 50 Club of Cleveland and was in the Leadership Cleveland Class of 2016.

Mark is a runner, cycler, an active social media contributor, and a proud resident of Cleveland’s west side Edgewater neighborhood. continue

Alex Schmitt

Treasurer

Alex Schmitt is an Assurance Partner with over 21 years’ experience with EY, providing audit and advisory services to clients in the banking and securities industries. Alex currently serves as coordinating partner or engagement quality review partner on multiple public financial institutions across the country and various private equity funds in Northeast Ohio. Alex has spent his career in the Cleveland office and in addition to his client responsibilities, he serves as the Northeast Ohio Financial Services Location leader. He is the FSO Marg... Alex Schmitt is an Assurance Partner with over 21 years’ experience with EY, providing audit and advisory services to clients in the banking and securities industries. Alex currently serves as coordinating partner or engagement quality review partner on multiple public financial institutions across the country and various private equity funds in Northeast Ohio. Alex has spent his career in the Cleveland office and in addition to his client responsibilities, he serves as the Northeast Ohio Financial Services Location leader. He is the FSO Margin Coaching Leader, and is one of the firm’s CECL implementation leaders, working directly with the EY National office, EY’s modeling experts, and the AICPA on various implementation matters as they arise.

Alex is a graduate of John Carroll University and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Ohio Society of CPAs. Alex also serves as a board member of the Northeast Ohio Foundation for Patriotism, the Hudson Community Foundation, and the John Carroll University Accounting Advisory Board.

Alex resides in Hudson, Ohio with his wife, Susie, and three children. continue

Patty Shlonsky

Vice President & Co-Chair, Program Committee

Patty Shlonsky is Partner-In-Charge of Ulmer & Berne’s Cleveland office, where she oversees the office’s development, client service, business, and operations efforts. She serves on the firm’s Management and Compensation Committees, and chairs the Employee Benefits and Tax Practice Groups. She maintains a nationally regarded employee benefits practice, and advises clients on compliance issues, benefits issues arising from mergers and acquisitions, privacy and data security issues under HIPAA, health benefits, and executive compensation. ... Patty Shlonsky is Partner-In-Charge of Ulmer & Berne’s Cleveland office, where she oversees the office’s development, client service, business, and operations efforts. She serves on the firm’s Management and Compensation Committees, and chairs the Employee Benefits and Tax Practice Groups. She maintains a nationally regarded employee benefits practice, and advises clients on compliance issues, benefits issues arising from mergers and acquisitions, privacy and data security issues under HIPAA, health benefits, and executive compensation.

Outside of Ulmer & Berne, Patty is active in the Greater Cleveland community and beyond. She serves on the boards of the Cuyahoga County Public Library (where she chairs the Policy, Planning and External Relations Committee), Bellefaire JCB, Planned Parenthood Advocates Ohio, and United for Libraries. She also serves on the Retirement Fund Committee for the Jewish Federation of Cleveland.

Patty earned her B.A. from Miami University, her J.D., with honors, from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, and is a member of Leadership Cleveland, Class of 2012. Patty is an avid reader and edits a book review blog - FromBriefsToBooks.com. continue

Fareed Siddiq

Fareed Siddiq is an experienced Wealth Management Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and has built and expanded his business through dedicated service as a Financial Advisor to his clients. He helps provide counsel in the areas of financial planning, risk management, investment management, estate and tax planning strategies, and retirement planning. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Accredited Investment Fiduciary, Accredited Retirement Fiduciary, and has earned the title of Senior Investment Management Consultant and Portfolio Ma... Fareed Siddiq is an experienced Wealth Management Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and has built and expanded his business through dedicated service as a Financial Advisor to his clients. He helps provide counsel in the areas of financial planning, risk management, investment management, estate and tax planning strategies, and retirement planning. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Accredited Investment Fiduciary, Accredited Retirement Fiduciary, and has earned the title of Senior Investment Management Consultant and Portfolio Management Director through his extensive work in the area of professional money management.

Fareed was born and raised in Pakistan and attended St. Patrick College in Karachi, majoring in Business before moving to the United States in 1972.

Fareed is an active member of the Greater Cleveland community. In addition to the City Club, he sits on the Board of Trustees of several local organizations including: The Diversity Center, American Red Cross, Cleveland Council of World Affairs and The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland (Lifetime Trustee). continue

Robyn Minter Smyers

Immediate Past President

Robyn is an Executive Committee Member and Partner in the Real Estate, Construction and Corporate Transactions & Securities practice groups at the law firm Thompson Hine LLP. She is the immediate past Partner-in-Charge of the firm’s Cleveland office and a former Chair of the firmwide Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative. Robyn focuses her practice on helping companies find and develop new plants, headquarters and facilities. She also has significant experience with shopping center, urban redevelopment, multifamily housing, distribution ce... Robyn is an Executive Committee Member and Partner in the Real Estate, Construction and Corporate Transactions & Securities practice groups at the law firm Thompson Hine LLP. She is the immediate past Partner-in-Charge of the firm’s Cleveland office and a former Chair of the firmwide Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative. Robyn focuses her practice on helping companies find and develop new plants, headquarters and facilities. She also has significant experience with shopping center, urban redevelopment, multifamily housing, distribution center, hospitality and public-private partnership (P3) deals. Robyn also counsels corporations on environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives.

Robyn was honored as the 2018 Black Professional of the Year by the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation and is included on numerous lists of top lawyers, including Savoy’s Most Influential Black Lawyers list, Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business and Best Lawyers in America©.

Robyn holds a bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and juris doctorate from Yale University. continue

Nigamanth Sridhar

Dr. Nigamanth Sridhar serves as Interim Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Cleveland State University. In this role, he serves as the Chief Academic Officer and oversees all academic offerings at the university. Previously, Nigamanth served as the Dean of the College of Graduate Studies at CSU, overseeing the university’s graduate program offerings. Nigamanth also holds a faculty appointment in CSU’s Washkewicz College of Engineering as Professor of Computer Science. His research interests lie in the areas of software... Dr. Nigamanth Sridhar serves as Interim Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Cleveland State University. In this role, he serves as the Chief Academic Officer and oversees all academic offerings at the university. Previously, Nigamanth served as the Dean of the College of Graduate Studies at CSU, overseeing the university’s graduate program offerings. Nigamanth also holds a faculty appointment in CSU’s Washkewicz College of Engineering as Professor of Computer Science. His research interests lie in the areas of software engineering, programming languages, connected devices, and computer science education.

Nigamanth holds MS and PhD degrees in Computer Science from The Ohio State University and a bachelor’s degree in information systems from BITS Pilani in India. He serves on the Board of Education of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. He also serves as a member of the Greater Cleveland Partnership Technology Board and as a trustee for Urban Community School and the Cleveland Leadership Center. Nigamanth and his family live in the Detroit Shoreway neighborhood of Cleveland. continue

Charles Stack

Charles Stack is a successful serial entrepreneur, angel investor, startup advisor, and the co-founder and CEO of the startup accelerator Flashstarts and StartMart Cleveland. Flashstarts launches 12+ new startups every year, providing a complete suite of services from formation, funding, and fund raising. In May 2016, Charles launched StartMart, a 35,000 sq. ft. startup/co-working community in the Terminal Tower. He has a passion (and history) for building great startups.

In 1992 he started Books.com, the first online bookstore, ... Charles Stack is a successful serial entrepreneur, angel investor, startup advisor, and the co-founder and CEO of the startup accelerator Flashstarts and StartMart Cleveland. Flashstarts launches 12+ new startups every year, providing a complete suite of services from formation, funding, and fund raising. In May 2016, Charles launched StartMart, a 35,000 sq. ft. startup/co-working community in the Terminal Tower. He has a passion (and history) for building great startups.

In 1992 he started Books.com, the first online bookstore, and in 1998 he founded Flashline to address the new opportunity in software components and web services. In 2000 Charles won the Infoworld E-Business Innovator Award for his contributions to Internet Retail. He won the Ohio Venture Association (OVA) Venture of the Year award in 2007 and served on the OVA board until 2010. He has mentored and/or been a judge at numerous business plan and startup competitions including Startup Weekend Cleveland in 2014 and the 11 regional University iDeaLabs competition.

He is a frequent speaker at investment, startup, and entrepreneurship conferences as well as regularly sharing his experiences with classes of students at nearly every university in the region. Charles is a graduate of Case Western Reserve University Law School. continue

Molly Walsh

Vice President & Chair, Advancement Committee

Molly Walsh is Principal & Owner of Standout Consulting LLC. She's a certified executive and career coach committed to helping individuals identify and reach their career goals through personalized and strategic guidance. She specializes in executive and career coaching, career transitions, job search strategy, workforce re-entry, and personal branding. Molly's strengths also include non-profit board engagement, leadership training and extensive fundraising expertise. As Principal of Standout Consulting, she enjoys working with individuals from... Molly Walsh is Principal & Owner of Standout Consulting LLC. She's a certified executive and career coach committed to helping individuals identify and reach their career goals through personalized and strategic guidance. She specializes in executive and career coaching, career transitions, job search strategy, workforce re-entry, and personal branding. Molly's strengths also include non-profit board engagement, leadership training and extensive fundraising expertise. As Principal of Standout Consulting, she enjoys working with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including attorneys, IT professionals, creative arts professionals, entrepreneurs, journalists, and non-profit executives and board members.

Molly holds a Master’s in Education from DePaul University and a B.A. from Loyola University. She is a graduate of the Weatherhead School of Management Executive Coaching Program at Case Western Reserve University. continue

Sheila Wright

Sheila Wright is a Partner and President of Frontline Development Group, an Ohio based real estate development firm. She is President of the Good Community Foundation, a private charitable organization founded by philanthropists, Albert and Audrey Ratner. Sheila serves on various boards throughout Northeast Ohio, some of which are represented here today including The City Club of Cleveland, Karamu House and Growth Opportunity Partners. She is the Founder of the CREW Foundation which seeks to achieve racial equity in the area of workforce develo... Sheila Wright is a Partner and President of Frontline Development Group, an Ohio based real estate development firm. She is President of the Good Community Foundation, a private charitable organization founded by philanthropists, Albert and Audrey Ratner. Sheila serves on various boards throughout Northeast Ohio, some of which are represented here today including The City Club of Cleveland, Karamu House and Growth Opportunity Partners. She is the Founder of the CREW Foundation which seeks to achieve racial equity in the area of workforce development for Ohio's media production industry. Sheila received her undergraduate and law degrees from Cleveland State University and earned an Executive M.B.A. from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and the mother of two beautiful daughters, Corbyn and Leslie. continue