May 2008

 The Leadership Akron Alumni Association develops future leaders, creates a community network
and reinforces leadership skills for the benefit of the greater Akron area.

In This Issue

Parsons Receives Distinguished Leader Award Upcoming Events Leadership Akron Hires Program Coordinator Survey Response Needed Dr. Lois Nora Speaks to Alumni Teodosio Keynotes JLA Graduation Volunteer Opportunites Member News

In choosing the 2008 Distinguished Leader Award, the recipient
is to exemplify the spirit, goals and highest standards of civic commitment. Joe Parsons (Leadership Akron Class VI) meets all those criteria and more, and credits Leadership Akron with opening his eyes to the needs and possibilities of how to serve our community.

Joe’s involvement as President of the Board of Directors at the
Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank might be described as a philanthropic “perfect storm.” In 2002, Mary Ann Boland asked him to join the Board in anticipation of the Foodbank’s need to move into larger quarters. In 2005, he retired as President of Albrecht, Inc., an Akron commercial real estate firm. When he left, the timing was perfect to do some heavy lifting for the Foodbank.

According to Foodbank Executive Director Dan Flowers '06, “Joe led all aspects of the sale of the Foodbank’s former facility, as well as the purchase and renovation of the Foodbank’s new warehouse, donating all of his time and legal fees.” Simultaneously Joe shepherded the Board through a campaign that raised over $6 million in pledges for the new 85,000 sq. ft. distribution center.

“Knowing people are in need of food gets you motivated to do something,” Joe said when asked why he got involved. “Not everyone is situated the same economically and those who are fortunate have an obligation to help those who are struggling.”

Joe described the entire process as a team effort by both the Board and staff. From start to finish, everything went smoothly and he says he wouldn’t do anything differently. He described the difficulty of  100% of the knowledge and information needed, yet having to make decisions and keep forward momentum. The Facilities Committee received input from as many sources as possible but ultimately had to make the final decisions. “You do something because it is the right thing to do. Be responsible and take a course of action that you believe is right. If you follow that path there will be no regrets.”

Production at the Foodbank’s new facility will more than double in the next few years. The staff and volunteers are energized and proud of the new facility they call home. The capital campaign gave the Foodbank an opportunity to get their message out and increase their visibility and image in the community. Ongoing operating donations have increased, affirming that they were doing the right thing and that the community would support it.

Joe feels that leadership is something to be learned and evident in actions rather than words. Anyone is capable of anything given a certain set of circumstances, finding something that is important and meaningful to them, and moving it forward.

Joe’s “Perfect Storm” at the Foodbank has now turned into blue skies and calm seas. So, in July, he heads to Munich to ride motorcycles through the Italian Alps while he ponders his next effort for our community.
 

LAAA Lunch Club, June 20, 11:30 a.m., Portage Country Club
Do you think you know your fellow Alumni?  Cost $20 - Lunch will be served.

RSVP:  June 17 to Heidi Roane, LAAA, 1 Cascade Plaza, 17th Floor, Akron  OH 44308-1192. Click here to register http://www.lakron.com/3-events.asp.

Ellen McIntyre Golf Outing, July 21, 7:00 a.m., Silver Lake Country Club

RSVP:  Early bird registration of $72 due by June 27. After June 27, registration fee is $79. Lunch only is $15. RSVP to Heidi Roane, LAAA, 1 Cascade Plaza, 17th Floor, Akron  OH 44308-1192. Click here to register http://www.lakron.com/3-events.asp.

Annual Meeting, August 22, 11:30 a.m., Portage Country Club
Cost $20 - Lunch will be served

RSVP:  August 19. RSVP to Heidi Roane, LAAA, 1 Cascade Plaza, 17th Floor, Akron  OH 44308-1192. Click here to register http://www.lakron.com/3-events.asp.

Questions? Call Heidi Roane at 330.237.1239 or e-mail hroane@lakron.com

Leadership Akron welcomes Susan Kosco to the staff as our new program coordinator.

Susan comes to Leadership Akron with a background in human resources, having worked for National City Bank for fourteen years. She is ready to re-enter the workforce
after a hiatus to raise and home-school her four children.

Susan experienced Leadership Akron vicariously a few years ago when her husband Maurus, a Senior Vice President at National City Bank, was part of Class 22. In her interviews at the staff and board levels, Susan demonstrated the same manner of grace and professionalism that has made Diane Bray so invaluable to Leadership Akron.

“I am excited for the opportunity to support a program of such high quality and ideals as Leadership Akron,” Kosco remarked.

We are thrilled that Susan is joining our team and look forward to the ways her talents will continue building the excellence of the program!
 

The LAAA Directory is among the most valuable tools in Akron—but it all depends on good information. Directory surveys for the 2008-09 alumni directory were mailed out in late April. Please be sure to complete and return to:

                                   Heidi Roane
                                   LAAA
                                   1 Cascade Plaza, 17th Floor
                                   Akron  OH 44308

  You may also fax it to Heidi at 330.434.1104.                   

Dr. Lois Nora, M.D., J.D., MBA, president of the Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy spoke at LAAA’s Leadership Development Luncheon in February. The program focused on “Good to Great During Challenging Times”.

In her MBA program, Dr. Nora was impressed by the work of Jim Collins, co-author of the book Built to Last. In 2000, as a fellow with The Ohio State University, she was invited by the University’s President to attend a retreat at Jim Collins’ center in Colorado. In her role as scribe for the experience, Dr. Nora saw how Collins’ research at that time later evolved into his best selling book, Good to Great.

She discussed important concepts from the book and provided illustrations on how she has used the concepts in her work at the College and in working collaboratively with hospitals, institutions of higher education, and other stakeholders in Northeast Ohio.

Over fifty alumni attended to hear how Dr. Nora applies principles of leadership in two sectors critical to the success of Northeast Ohio - education and healthcare.

by Bernie Rochford '04, JLA Co-chair

                      2007 - 2008 Junior Leadership Akron Class 21


The Honorable Linda Tucci Teodosio, Judge of the Summit County Juvenile Court, delivered an inspiring keynote address to the 21st graduating class of the Junior Leadership Akron Program April 27 at The Martin University Center. The judge took a moment to describe some of the functions of the juvenile court and quipped that she was sure none of the class members would avail themselves of the court’ services, save a minor traffic infraction. Judge Teodosio focused her comments on the Pillars of Character and used examples that resonated with the class. The kids enjoyed hearing from someone so connected with their issues and responded well to her message of building and maintaining a solid character as they go through life.

Leadership Akron thanks JLA co-chairs Bernie Rochford ’04 and Lori Lautenschlager ’05; the dozens of alumni who volunteered their time for Junior Leadership and JLA's premier sponsor, Time Warner Cable, for another great year!
 

More than 400 Jewish teens from the United States, Israel, and Venezuela will meet in Akron Aug. 10-15 for a week of competition, community service, and social activities. By integrating sports with Jewish identity and values, the JCC Maccabi Games is an unforgettable experience for the athletes, coaches, families and the community. Tennis, Soccer, Basketball, Golf, Bowling, and Track & Field will be represented. Thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors are needed. For information, instructions, and to volunteer follow the blimp at www.shawjcc.org or contact Sue McMains ’01,Maccabi Volunteer Chair at 330.666.0803, smcmains@neo.rr.com.
 

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The Northern Ohio chapter of the ALS Association (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) has several board openings and is targeting younger Summit County leaders to serve. While they would be thrilled to identify candidates with a passion for this particular disease, they are open to considering anyone with a strong community service background and the desire to make a contribution. Those who have an interest should contact Polly Knox at pknox@ssandg.com.
 

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Awards/Recognitions/Promotions     

Chip Billow ’94 and Rick Fedorovich ’88 received the 2008 Distinguished Service Award from United Way of Summit County at its Annual Meeting on April 2.

Mark Clark ’93 has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Strategic Planning & Operations at FirstEnergy Corp.

Paula Davis ’91 has been named President & CEO at Keep Akron Beautiful.

Robert DeJournett ’05 was recently awarded the 2008 Harold K. Stubbs Humanitarian award in the field of business.

Barbara Frank ’85 was honored as a DPVOA Volunteer of the Year by the Literacy Council of Buncombe County (NC)at their annual luncheon.

Becky Hoover '01 is now Director, Employee Relations at The University of Akron.

Val Hoover ’99 recently graduated from the JoAnn Davidson Ohio Leadership Institute after completingthe intensive eight month training program.

Jess Hurst ’06 has been selected as one of America’s Top Financial Planners in 2008 by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.

Rob Malone ’87 has been appointed Chairman of Business Law Practice Group at Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs, L.L.P.

Jim Merklin ’03 served on a panel presentation for the nationally broadcast continuing education program for audit managers and supervisors on January 16 for the American Institute of CPAs. He was also featured in “Help in Tough Times – Experts Guide Restructuring Bankruptcy” in the Akron Beacon Journal on March 31.

Scott Miller ’03 has been named Vice President/General Manager of Operations of Time Warner Cable, Northeast Ohio Division.

Jack Morrison ’89 has been selected as a 2008 Super Lawyer – Corporate Counsel by Law & Politics magazine.

Bob Pacanovsky ’07 was honored by the Alzheimer’s Association at the Forget Me Not Gala on May 2 for exemplifying philanthropy and exceptional support for the association.

Joe Parsons ’91 received the Cleveland Preservation Society Award for rehabilitation of the former Akron Post Office at 168 E. Market Street.

Dale Ruther ’98 was published in the “Ask the Expert” column for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, addressing a question about IRA deductions. Dale additionally coauthored “Defer Taxes, Maximize Value with a Like-Kind Exchange” that appeared in the February 2008 issue of Construction Executive, and he was extensively quoted in “A Mixed Message for Construction Taxation” which appeared in the January-February 2008 issue of CFMA’s Building Profits.

Leila Vespoli ’01 has been promoted to Executive Vice President & General Counsel at FirstEnergy Corp.

Anthony Funeral Home (David Anthony ’98) has relocated to a new building. New business address is 1990 South Main Street, Akron OH 44301. Telephone:
330.724.1281, Fax: 330.724.9035.

Heather Bentley '05 is no longer with American Greetings. She can be reached at her home address, 4718 North Ridge Drive, Akron OH 44333. Telephone number is 330.666.0656. E-mail address is heatherbentley1@yahoo.com.

Bob Bowman '92 has a new home address. It is 845 Cranberry Lane, Akron OH 44313. Telephone number is 330.867.2239.

Margaret Fuller Corneille '86 of Minnesota Board of Law Examiners has moved. New address is 180 E. 5th Street #950, St. Paul  MN 55101. Telephone number is 651.201.2706. Fax number is 651.296.5866. E-mail address is peg@c-holdings.com.

Roger Emerson ’03 is now Patent Attorney at Emerson, Thomson & Bennett. Address is 777 West Market Street, Akron OH 44303. Telephone: 330.434.9999.
Fax: 330.434.8888, E-mail: roger@emersonthomson.com.

Don Graham (Leadership Cleveland ’97) has retired from Fifth Third Bank. He may be reached at his home address 2850 Forest Drive, Pepper Pike OH 44124.
Telephone: 216.831.5133, E-mail: dham825@aol.com.

John Guild ’99 is now President & CEO for the Historic Annapolis Shiplap House Foundation. Address is 18 Pinkney Street, Annapolis, MD 21404. Telephone:
410.990.4708, Fax: 410.267.6189, E-mail: john.guild@annapolis.org.

Joel Hampton '92 is now National Sales Manager with Bil Jac Foods. Address is 3337 Medina Road, Medina  OH 44256. Telephone number is 800.321.1002. Fax number is 330.725.2707. E-mail address is jhampton@biljac.com. New home address is 5871 Glen Eagles Drive, Medina OH 44256. Telephone number is 330.722.5386. E-mail address is ccexec1@aol.com.

Larry Kerr '87 of L. J. Kerr & Associates has moved. Address is 9251 North Shore Drive, Mineral City  OH 44656. Telephone number and fax numbers are 330.343.9686. E-mail address is Larry.J.Kerr@yahoo.com.

McKay Insurance Agency, Inc. (Pat McKay ’87) is relocating on 5/30. New address is 1653 Merriman Road, #209, Akron OH 44313. Telephone: 330.630.2727, Fax:
330.630.2733, E-mail: mckay@mckayins.com.

Debbie Mowrey ’85 is now Director of Programs and Development for Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Address is 2 Lynn Cove Road, Asheville NC 28804. Telephone: 828.255.5573, E-mail: Debbie_Mowrey@friendsbrp.org.

JoAnn Schlue (Leadership Portage ’00) is now Manager, Corporate and Foundations with Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank. Address is 350 Opportunity Parkway, Akron OH 44307. Telephone: 330.777.2308, Fax: 330.996.5357. E-mail: joann@akroncantonfoodbank.org.

Paul Suso '86 is no longer Administrative Director for Womankind Prenatal Care Center. He is still Deputy Registrar/Owner of Barberton License Bureau.

Vince Tersigni ’99 is now Partner at Jackson, Lewis LLP. Address is Park Center, Plaza I, Suite 400, 6100 Oak Tree Blvd., Cleveland OH 44131. Telephone: 216.750.0415, Fax: 216.750.0826, E-mail: Vincent.Tersigni@jacksonlewis.com.

Cheryl Urban ’99 has retired from The University of Akron. She can be reached at her home address 462 Messner Road, Akron OH 44319. Telephone: 330.882.4166. E-mail address is cu1@ukron.edu.

Jeff Wilhite ’91 of Hydrogen Energy Systems, LLC has moved. Address is 12 East Exchange Street, 8th Floor, Akron OH 44308. Telephone: 330.807.8291. E-mail: jwilhite@neo.rr.com/

Val Hoover ’99 from Kohrman Jackson and Krantz has moved. New address is Metro Place V, Metro Place South, Suite 600, Dublin OH 43017. Telephone: 614.408.9700.,Fax: 216.621.6536, E-mail: vch@kjk.com.

Leaders Serving the Community

David Anthony ’98 is serving on the Cleveland Diocese cluster Planning Committee for St. Paul, Queen of Heaven, St. Francis and Nativity Catholic Churches.

Mark Bober ’95 has been elected President-Elect of the Jewish Community Board of Akron effective June, 2008 and will serve a two year term as President effective June 2009.

Paula Chesser ’00 has been elected President-Elect of the Fairlawn Area Chamber of Commerce.

Rick Fedorovich ’88 has been elected to a third term as Chairman of Akron General Health System.

Bill Glaeser ’97 has been appointed Chairman of Goodwill Industries of Akron.

Randy Katz ’98 has been appointed to the United Way of Summit County board.

Mike Kura ’89 will be the next President of the Haven of Rest Board effective in July ’08.

Ray Lee ’89 was elected Chairman of the Juice Products Association (JPA) at their annual meeting in April. He was also elected as a board member of the University Hospitals Case Medical Center.

Jim Merklin ’03 has been elected Chairman of the Board of Community Support Services. He was also elected First Vice-Chair of Goodwill Industries of Akron after having served two years as Chairman.

Jim Nilsen ’87 has been appointed to the Board of Directors at the Greater Akron Chamber.

Ellen Otto ’89 has been appointed to the board of Crown Point Farm and Ecology Center. She is also co-chairing the tenth anniversary “Taste of the Earth” dinner and auction, to be held on August 9. She was also appointed to the Rotary Camp board.

Helen Paige ’86 has been appointed to the Institutional Review Board at Summa Health System.

Joe Parsons ’91 has been appointed At Large Councilman for the Village of New Franklin.

Lucy Randles ’89 has been appointed Secretary of The Weathervane Community Playhouse board and she recently chaired the committee for TheaterFest 2008, Weathervane’s spring fundraiser.

Brian Ray ’08 has been appointed to the board of trustees of Akron Civic Theatre.

Karen Talbott ’91 was elected as Board Chairman for Summit Workforce Solutions and also for Info Line. She was also re-elected as Vice Chair of Workforce Development for the Greater Akron Chamber and also serves on its Executive Committee.

Thomas Tatum ’00 served as Chairman of the 2008 March of Dimes “March for Babies” spring fundraiser on May 10.

Barry Thoman ’08 has been appointed Treasurer of Goodwill Industries of Akron.

Kristie Van Auken ’00 has been appointed to the AAA Akron Board of Directors.

Our condolences to Dirk Hiney ’88 on the death of his grandmother Barbara Hiney, co-founder and life trustee of Leadership Akron who passed away on April 11.

Our condolences to John Nassos ’98 on the death of his father, Pete Nassos who passed away on May 5.

Our condolences to the family of Sandra Stubbs-Pitts ’88 who passed away on March 21.

Our condolences to Elaine Woloshyn ‘88 on the death of her mother, Estelle Woloshyn who passed away on May 2.

Directory Changes

Fran Doll '88 has a new e-mail address. It is dollgasp@att.net.

Dave Vargo’07 has a new e-mail address. It is dvargo3@nmc-oh.com.
 

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