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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
your work and dedication inspire us.
At KeyBank, we believe achievements that have a positive impact on people and our community should always be recognized. Making a difference is never easy, and we never stop being thankful for the people who do it. We are especially proud of the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, 69th Annual Humanitarian Award honorees. Congratulations to Thompson Hine, Executive Committee Member and Partner, Robyn Minter Smyers, and our Chairman & CEO, Chris Gorman. Honoring you is our honor. Thank you for all you do.
©2023 KeyCorp. KeyBank Member FDIC. 221108-1326908-1264143862
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration 2023-24 DIVERSITY CENTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE OFFICERS Tracie M. Longpre Chair Cipriano S. Beredo, III Past Chair Sheryl King Benford Vice Chair
Jeri Chaikin Vice Chair Uleto Fuentes Vice Chair Azadeh Hardiman Vice Chair
Harlin Adelman Orlando Alvarez, Jr. Arlene Anderson Richie Bachala Anthony Battle John E. Betterson, Jr. Ph.D. ∆ Rev. Kenneth W. Chalker Alyson Fieldman Cindy Fisher Allan Goldner Lisa Grdina Hon. Burt W. Griffin
Helena Haynes-Carter Jill E. Hennessey Shannon F. Jerse Bonnie L. Kristan Gregg LaBar Leighton McCoy Hugh E. McKay Robyn Minter Smyers Russ Mitchell David B. Nejedlik Stephen M. O’Bryan Adam Roth
Thomas W. Adler Cynthia Bassett Bernard A. Finkelstein Robert D. Gries* David J. Hooker Robert J. King, Jr.
DIRECTORS
LIFE DIRECTORS
Stuart F. Kline William E. MacDonald, III Neal Malicky, Ph.D. John G. Nestor Larry Pollock Alan D. Rosskamm
Steffany Larkins Vice Chair Tony Weber Vice Chair Peggy Zone Fisher ∆ President & CEO David W. Rowan Michael J. Salkind Fareed Siddiq Greg Skoda, Jr. Dalithia Smith Robert E. Soroka Kate Vlasek Natoya Walker Minor, Ph.D. Simon Wilkins Deandra Williams-Lewis Margaret W. Wong
James A. Schoff Terry C. Stewart William B. Summers, Jr. Robert M. Wolff
∆ ex-officio Member of the Board * of blessed memory
DIVERSITY CENTER STAFF Peggy Zone Fisher President & CEO Amanda Cooper, Ph.D., CDP Vice President/Chief Operating Officer Samantha Speck, M.A. Chief Program Officer
PROGRAM DEPARTMENT
Jessica A. Daigler, M.A. Director, LeadDIVERSITY
Megan Nelius, M.A. Director of Programs, School & Youth
Melodie Gonzales Engagement Manager, School & Youth
Em Richards Senior JEDI Specialist, School & Youth
Shilpa Kenjale, M.A. Director of Programs, SHIFT Consulting
Hannah Kalainaina JEDI Specialist, SHIFT Consulting
Jeff Modzelewski Director of Engagement, SHIFT Consulting
ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
Kimberly Koch Chief Financial Officer
Cierra Hilson Director of Special Events & Marketing
Brenda Saridakis, J.D., M.A. Director of Development
Jamil N. Hairston Marketing and Communications Specialist
Lorraine Z. Pennick Nash Executive Assistant to the President & CEO / Office Manager
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 3
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
It is my pleasure to welcome you to The Diversity Center’s 69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I thank you for your ongoing support of the Center’s mission. For nearly 100 years, The Diversity Center has been committed to building communities where all people are connected, respected and valued. Support of our work is helping a new generation of students and future leaders embrace their differences and become change agents for inclusion and diversity in our region. Every year throughout Northeast Ohio, our programs touch more than 4,000 people in eight counties, and help organizations to facilitate inclusive and productive work environments. We couldn’t do it without those who champion our cause. Tonight, we celebrate the incredible dedication of Christopher M. Gorman and Robyn Minter Smyers. Both of these individuals exemplify that teaching acceptance can build stronger, more inclusive communities. Mr. Gorman, Chairman and CEO of KeyCorp, views Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as on ongoing priority that requires continuous reflection, evolution and improvement. Fourteen times, Key has been named to DiversityInc’s global ranking of the “Top 50 Companies for Diversity” – a clear testament to their long-term commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as well as the effectiveness of their strategies and practices. Ms. Smyers, a partner with Thompson Hine, epitomizes what it means to make a positive impact in our community. Her involvement includes active membership on the Diversity Center’s board since 2009, serving as former chair of Thompson Hine’s firm-wide Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative, plus many diversity and civic engagements and distinctions, including being honored in 2018 as the Black Professional of the Year by the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation and receiving the Richard H. Adler Community Leadership Award from the American Jewish Committee (AJC) Cleveland. We also applaud our Honorary Humanitarian Award Celebration Co-Chairs: • Rev. Courtney Clayton-Jenkins – Pastor and Teacher at South Euclid United Church of Christ • Stewart Kohl – Co-CEO of the Riverside Company • Lillian Kuri – President and Chief Executive Officer of The Cleveland Foundation • Darrell L. McNair – CEO of MVP Plastics and our 2022 Humanitarian Award Honoree, and • The Honorary Celebration Committee members who helped to make this event so successful I especially want to thank our Board Co-Chairs, Jill Hennessey and Rob Soroka, for their incredible work over the past several months. Finally, we extend our sincere appreciation to our President and CEO, Peggy Zone Fisher, and to the staff of The Diversity Center. This event could not have happened without their hard work and dedication. This Celebration not only acknowledges the remarkable contributions of individuals and organizations in Northeast Ohio, it is also the primary fundraiser for The Diversity Center’s School and Youth programs that serve to empower children with the skills and abilities to build inclusive classrooms and communities. In a world troubled in so many ways, I think Nadia Murad, a Yazidi activist and recipient of the 2018 Nobel Peace prize, said it best – “The world has only one border. It is called humanity. The differences between us are small compared to our shared humanity. Put humans first.” Through education, this is exactly what the Diversity Center strives to do in Northeast Ohio. I cannot thank you enough for your support.
Tracie Longpre Board Chair,
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
Welcome to the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s 69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration. Our sincere thanks to our Honorary Celebration Co-chairs, Rev. Courtney Clayton-Jenkins, Stewart Kohl, Lillian Kuri, and Darrell L. McNair, our Board Celebration Co-chairs Jill Hennessey and Rob Soroka, Master of Ceremonies Russ Mitchell, Channel 3 News Anchor, WKYC TV-3, our generous Sponsors, our remarkable staff, and our dedicated Board led by our extraordinary Chair, Tracie Longpre. We are especially proud to honor our 2023 Humanitarian Award recipients, Robyn Minter Smyers and Christopher Gorman. Each has advanced diversity and inclusion across Northeast Ohio through their exemplary civic, charitable, and professional leadership. Thank you, Robyn and Chris for allowing us to honor you this evening. The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio is the only organization in Ohio with a mission focused solely on directly addressing and eliminating bias, bigotry, intolerance, and racism and creating communities where all people are connected, respected, and valued. Almost every day, we learn about hate-fueled violence, intimidation, harassment, or discrimination against someone because of the color of their skin, where they were born, whom they love, how they live, or what they believe. Let us be clear. When that happens, it is an attack on all of us. This is my 17th year as President and CEO, and in the face of these increased challenges, I am still moved every day by how we have adapted, innovated, and continued to develop and grow. The increased demand for our programming, combined with the generosity of people and organizations like yours, has allowed us to expand our programming and reach more students and educators than ever before. Our programs help thousands of children, teens, and young adults in 8 counties each year embrace their differences and become change agents in their schools and communities. We also train educators to create learning environments that promote respect, acceptance, and inclusion. Most importantly, without the support of each of you, our extraordinary work would not be possible. With deep appreciation and gratitude,
Peggy Zone Fisher President & CEO
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 5
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
ABOUT THE DIVERSITY CENTER
The
Diversity Center of northeast ohio
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio was founded in 1927 as the National Conference of Christians and Jews (NCCJ). Our mission is to eliminate bias, bigotry and racism. We are the premier organization in our region offering comprehensive diversity, equity and inclusion training. The Diversity Center is a member of the National Federation for Just Communities. For the 2022-2023 fiscal year, our generous donors support has empowered over 2,000 students and educators to engage in 191 diversity and inclusion centered workshops, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to become leaders and change agents in their schools.
OPENING MINDS WITH SCHOOL & YOUTH PROGRAMS
The Diversity Center’s student programs promote understanding, respect and inclusion through facilitated conversations, simulations and hands-on activities. YouLEAD (6-12) and YouLEAD Junior (K-2 & 3-5) are our premiere on-site student leadership programs. Grounded in Social and Emotional Learning, these series of workshops promote the development of self and social awareness, relationship skills, self-management, responsible decision making, and action. YouLEAD and YouLEAD Junior workshops are age-appropriate, interactive, and designed to encourage students to engage with peers, and create dialogue around various diversity and inclusion topics. We offer both onsite and virtual elementary, middle, and high school programs. Student Facilitation Training teaches students how to be effective facilitators, gaining skills such as: active listening and effective communication, critical analysis, and conflict resolution. Diversity Through the Arts integrates musical, visual, theatrical, and English language arts with lessons on inclusiveness and communication skills to promote creativity and leadership. Athletic Pathways contains a four-part and a six-part series. The purpose of this athlete-specific YouLEAD pathway is to bring a sense of awareness and inclusion to athletes who may want to see what justice, equity, and inclusion should look like through an athletic lens. Workshops for Educators to foster healthy learning communities, and create classrooms where all are connected, respected, and valued. We also provide strategic planning, 1x1 and group coaching, and consultation on developing inclusive and equitable policies and procedures.
inclusion. These practices enable organizations to attract, recruit, engage, and retain the world’s best talent. Through our partnerships with business and community leaders, we support the development of inclusive work environments where all feel connected, respected, and valued.
BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES
Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration Since 1949, The Diversity Center has honored stellar individuals who have delivered exemplary leadership in civic, charitable, and professional organizations. Our honorees have profoundly advanced Northeast Ohio as a diverse and inclusive community.
R.I.S.E. High School Retreat A gathering of high school students will spend 2 ½ days exploring topics of diversity and inclusion through experiential activities and discussions. Our R.I.S.E. High School Retreat returns April 18th – April 20th, 2024, with the theme of ACTIVISM: Student Change-Makers.
The Walk, Rock, Roll & Run is Northeast Ohio’s largest diversity celebration that brings people together at Great Lakes Science Center, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and USS COD to celebrate diversity in Northeast Ohio with a day of family fun and entertainment, along with a 1 and 3-mile walk and a 5k run. This event will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at the Great Lakes Science Center.
CHANGING LIVES WITH PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT
Through Community Engagement, The Diversity Center partners with local organizations, nonprofits and government agencies to provide strategic and thoughtful leadership on issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion.
LeadDIVERSITY brings together a select group of professionals to engage with regional leaders and the greater community in order to raise participants’ awareness of diversity issues, build their leadership skills and provide them with a tool kit to be advocates for diversity and inclusion. SHIFT Consulting is the professional services division of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. We work with organizations to SHIFT individual behaviors, interpersonal interactions, management practices, procedures, and policies toward
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Scan the QR Code with your mobile device to learn more!
69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
CELEBRATION TESTIMONIALS “It is not an option for children to be in the education system, and they spend a majority of their life up to that point in these classrooms. As educators, we need to make those spaces as accepting and open for students as possible.” – Educator
“[The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s programming] has influenced me to be nice to everyone [and] make sure everyone feels safe at school.” – Student Participant
“We all experience our identities in different and complex ways.” “Understanding our own identities helps in our interactions with others.” – Educators
“Extremely informative and relevant content that is directly connected to [our] school environment. Fantastic educators/presenters. THANK YOU!” – Educator “This [programming] influences how I treat others at school because you never know what a person is going through. So, you should think before you talk about somebody.” – Student Participant
“Today was a great way of having a discussion and connecting with people that I might not have connected with before.” – Student Participant
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SUPPORTERS Akron Community Foundation Cuyahoga Arts and Culture Diebold Nixdorf, Inc. Dominion Energy Eaton Robert D. Gries and the Gries Family Foundation Jewish Federation of Cleveland KeyBank National Association Nordson Corporation Foundation Parker Hannifin Corporation PNC Bank Roy A. Hunt Foundation
Saint Luke’s Foundation Ruth G. and Sam H. Sampliner Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland State Farm Insurance Foundation Will and Jan Sukenik Synthomer Foundation Target The George W. Codrington Charitable Foundation The Harry K. and Emma R. Fox Charitable Foundation The Helen F. Stolier & Louis Stolier Family Foundation The Higley Fund The Sisler McFawn Foundation
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO HAVE HELPED US WITH IN-KIND GIFTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Z 107.9 Radio One 93.1 WZAK Radio One Abide Yoga Mayor Justin M. Bibb Breuggers Bagels Brecksville Breuggers Bagels Strongsville City of Cleveland - Division of Water Cleveland City Council Cleveland City Dance CynChan Coaching Dominion East Ohio Eaton Einstein Brothers Bagels Rocky River Economy Produce Fiddlehead Gallery Giant Eagle Goldfarb Weber Creative Media Great Lakes Science Center Cleveland City Council President: Blaine A. Griffin, Ward 6
The
Heinen’s Honey Birch Bakehouse Laurice Skin Care Lotus Candles Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage Michael Angelo’s Mitchell’s Ice cream Music Box Supper Club Plexus LGBT & Allied Chamber of Commerce PNC Bank Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Cleveland City Council Member: Jenny Spencer, Ward 15 Studio West 117 The HIT Factor USS Cod Submarine Memorial Vitamix Tony Weber WKYC Woodhouse Spa
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration 2023 EVENING PROGRAM EVENING HOST
RUSS MITCHELL The Diversity Center Board Director Channel 3 News Anchor WKYC TV-3
INVOCATION
REVEREND COURTNEY CLAYTON-JENKINS
WELCOME
TRACIE M. LONGPRE
2023 DIVERSITY STUDENT CITIZENSHIP AWARD
BELLA RINK, RHIANA BRUCE, PARKER GREEN, AND DANYA HAMMOUDEH
Chair, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio Board of Directors Vice President Supply Chain, Applied Industrial Technologies
Green High School
2023 DIVERSITY EDUCATION & CITIZEN LEADERSHIP AWARD 2023 OUTSTANDING LEADDIVERSITY ALUMNI AWARD
MARY MATISAK
Social Emotional Learning Educator, Milkovich Middle School
MAGGIE MYERS
Manager, Process Improvement and DEI Working Group Chair, FirstEnergy
TONYA WOODS SHELTON Consultant, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, FirstEnergy Corp
TEACH ACCEPTANCE, BUILD COMMUNITY PERSONAL TESTIMONY (VIDEO PRESENTATION)
AZADEH HARDIMAN
Business Leader, Level 20 Progressive Board Director, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio LeadDIVERSITY (2006-2007)
PEGGY ZONE FISHER President & CEO, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
DINNER IS SERVED THE DIVERSITY CENTER TODAY PRESENTATION OF HUMANITARIAN AWARDS
PEGGY ZONE FISHER
President & CEO, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
INTRODUCTION OF CHRISTOPHER M. GORMAN HELENA HAYNES-CARTER Executive Vice-President, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer KeyBank
ACCEPTANCE CHRISTOPHER M. GORMAN
Chairman, CEO, and President, KeyCorp
INTRODUCTION OF ROBYN MINTER SMYERS DAN MOULTHROP
Chief Executive Officer, The City Club of Cleveland
ACCEPTANCE ROBYN MINTER SMYERS
Partner, Thompson Hine
CLOSING REMARKS
RUSS MITCHELL The Diversity Center Board Director Channel 3 News Anchor WKYC TV-3
This evening’s music is provided by the Cleveland Metropolitan School District’s All-City Arts Program Jazz Ensemble and Director Dave Kasper This evening’s interpretation services are provided by Cleveland Hearing and Speech Center
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio 2023 STUDENT DIVERSITY CHAMPION AWARD RECIPIENTS
Meet our Green High School Student Champion Award Recipients from left to right Bella Rink, Rhiana Bruce, Parker Green, and Danya Hammoudeh.
Bella Rink, She/Her/Hers | Senior
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am currently serving as a board member at Akron Snow Angels, a non-profit organization committed to ‘spreading the warmth’ to the homeless community of Akron by providing basic essentials and fostering compassionate friendships while inspiring others to do the same. They envision a community where every individual is warm and treasure with love and respect. I go on bi-weekly missions with them between the months of November-March. I also have organized a donation drive for the homeless for the past 8 years, and have collected over $15,000 worth of items for local homeless. My work has given me the opportunity to appear on Channel 5 News, speak at various events about my mission, and make connections with people who need it most.
In my free time, I enjoy working at the local haunted house, the Haunted Schoolhouse and Laboratory as a makeup artist and haunt actor. I also like writing poetry, playing around with special effects makeup, spending time with my amazing friends and family, cooking, and volunteering around my community. I plan on going to Kent State University to pursue a degree in nursing and start my own nonprofit organization.
Rhiana Bruce, She/Her/Hers | Junior
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ustice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work is special to me because our world has so much room to grow in those categories and I want to help be the change we need to see. But also, I believe that everyone has a voice and everyone has the right to feel included and special, and it’s heartbreaking knowing that there are people who will criticize someone because of their ethnicity, race, or sexual preference. So, I want to be the voice that takes a step farther to help spread Justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. I am currently a part of the All-in club at my school and we’ve done many projects and attended many conferences that support the spread of justice, equity, and inclusion, and through all in I have learned so much. I am also a part of the diversity committee, and we have met with different advocates to learn how to become better facilitators. My interests and hobbies consist of running track and field, playing tennis, helping grow my community, and spending time with friends and family. I would like to go to college and study fashion design and Africana studies like community activism, strategy, and development.
Parker Green, She/Her/Hers | Senior
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ustice, equity and inclusion work is important to me because I want to leave the world better than I found it. I also am a strong believer that staying on the sidelines when injustice is happening is just as bad as committing that injustice. That belief drives me to be an active advocate for what I find important.
Currently I am a member of my school’s “All In,” where we organize events that teach the school about diversity, equity, and inclusion. I have also spoken at conferences about identity, equity, climate justice, and activism. Furthermore, I was able to organize a pediatric cancer fundraising drive, where, with the help of “All In,” we raised funds for Project Outrun (a local charity I have worked with in the past). In my free time, I play on my school’s varsity track and soccer team, and participate in twelve other extracurriculars. When I’m not doing those, you can usually find me reading a book, embroidering something (poorly), or painting (also poorly).
Danya Hammoudeh, She/Her/Hers | Junior
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am involved with a lot of the arts such as choir & ensemble. I am currently in a design, communications and marketing program at the Portage Lakes Career Center. I do lots of volunteer work around my community and with my mosque I’m very interested in psychology and marketing it’s important that everyone’s voice is heard. it’s also important to listen to all different point of views, to get a better understanding of the world around you.
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration 2023 DIVERSITY EDUCATION & CITIZENSHIP LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT Mary Matisak
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ary Matisak (she/they) is an inspired Social Emotional Learning (SEL) teacher at Milkovich Middle School in Maple Heights. Ten years into her teaching career, eight years as an educator at Milkovich, Mary has taught English-Language Arts, Social Studies, and three years ago, created the SEL class that is now used schoolwide. As a passionate advocate for their students, mental health, and social justice, she is Founder and Advisor of Milkovich’s Pride Club (Gender and Sexuality Alliance) and Unity Club. Both clubs were started to celebrate diversity and foster inclusivity and respect for all students in our school community. Mary and their students in Unity Club had the opportunity to work with The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. Through this collaboration, DCNEO provides training that fosters leadership skills in efforts to continue building a positive and nurturing environment for all students to thrive at Milkovich.
Throughout the 2022-2023 school year, Mary’s students participated in the Stop the Hate songwriting competition through the Maltz Museum. One of their classes, a group of 22 eighth-grade boys, with the help of a local singer/songwriter from Roots of American Music, wrote and recorded a song titled Harmony that took first place in the competition and earned the school a $3,500 anti-bias grant for Milkovich. Inside and outside of the classroom, Mary creates a safe space for members of the global majority and LGBTQ+ community. They hold a strong commitment to the constant evolution of self in an effort to constantly be learning and continue to grow. She is deeply committed to anti-racist work and strives every day to pursue the work of unlearning the societal conditioning that causes harm to others. During the pandemic, they created ‘Brave Safe Space’ for family and friends in an effort to educate others on social issues. Every day, Mary strives for equity, and acceptance, and gives her all to her students. At home, Mary spends most of their time in the backyard with her husband Larry, two-year-old son Payton, pitbull named Popeye, and ginger tabby named Jonfen (the boss).
LeadDIVERSITY OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARD LeadDIVERSITY is a program that engages a select group of Northeast Ohio professionals with community leaders and one another to raise the participants’ awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion issues, build their leadership skills, and enhance their networks. The class of up to 40 participants is selected through a competitive application process. The selection committee seeks applicants with proven leadership skills who have exhibited strong community commitment, and desire to learn. The LeadDIVERSITY program approaches diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership issues from a no-fault, interactive foundation with the goal of affecting positive change.
Emphasis is placed on personal and professional growth through group participation as well as knowledge and practical skill enrichment. Each session is designed to help participants explore the concepts of diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership and to analyze its personal, workplace, and community impact. The LeadDIVERSITY Outstanding Alumni Award Honoree is nominated annually by fellow alumni of the program. The Award recipient successfully demonstrates application of their LeadDIVERSITY learnings to be a positive change agent in both their professional and personal communities.
PAST LeadDIVERSITY ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENTS 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Lorna Wisham Rockette Richardson Ewell Tina Myles Cedric Haggins Pat Ross Ferry Christopher Johnson
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Jennifer Opphile Thomasine Clark George Sample Ingrid Angel Paula Calmer John E. Betterson, Jr., Ph.D.
2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Courtney Fugate Elizabeth “Liz” Anderson Marcia V. Moreno Rebecca Scina Carla L. Chapman
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio 2023 LeadDIVERSITY OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARD Maggie K. Myers
FirstEnergy Utilities Manager, Process Improvement
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aggie Myers (she/her) is the Manager, Process Improvement and DEI Working Group Chair for FirstEnergy.
She joined the company in 2006 supporting the Electrical Services department for The Illuminating Company. Later that year, Maggie transitioned to Workforce Development to fill the role of analyzing staffing demographics and preparing correlated staffing strategies for critical positions within the operating companies. In 2013, she was selected to lead organizational readiness activities, representing FirstEnergy Utilities, for a company-wide project to implement a new suite of electronic communication platforms, business tools, and file sharing applications. Maggie was promoted to Supervisor, Information Technology Solutions supporting all utility metering systems in 2015. She was named to her current position in September 2018.
Maggie earned a bachelor’s degree from The University of Akron. She is active in FirstEnergy’s employee business resource groups and serves as an advisor to MOSaic, a resource for FirstEnergy’s people of color and allies. She founded the FirstEnergy Allies Book Club (2020-2022), graduated from The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s LeadDIVERSITY program in 2021, and earned a DEI in Leadership: Inclusive Workplaces certificate from Miami University in 2023. Maggie leads FirstEnergy’s fundraising team for The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s annual Walk, Rock, Roll & Run event. In 2021, Maggie was recognized by the YWCA of Greater Cleveland as a Woman of Professional Excellence and as a 30 for the Future recipient by the Greater Akron Chamber. She is being recognized in November 2023 with an Outstanding Alumni Award through The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio.
2023 LeadDIVERSITY OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARD Tonya Woods Shelton
Consultant, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, FirstEnergy Corp.
T
onya Woods Shelton (she/her) is a consultant on the corporate Diversity, Equity & Inclusion team at FirstEnergy Corp. Tonya is responsible for leading DEI engagement and training and leveraging her expertise as a practitioner to implement strategies, programs and practices to advance DEI throughout the organization. Tonya joined FirstEnergy in 2014 in a leadership development role where she trained newly promoted leaders in fundamental leadership skills. Before coming to FirstEnergy, she worked for Allstate Insurance Company, where she led the efforts for internal communications and leadership development. She also played a key role in implementing diversity training and championing inclusion across the company. With more than 20 years of leadership experience, Tonya has an in-depth understanding of organizational development and talent management processes. As a strong communicator who engages employees and groups while facilitating or presenting, she is known for her ability to create safe spaces while hosting dialogue sessions on difficult topics. Her facilitation style strengthens engagement, fosters trust and builds lasting relationships with employees at all levels. Tonya is enthusiastic about causes that celebrate and uplift women and serves as a mentor and friend to many. She is equally as fervent about her community, previously serving as a board member for Junior Achievement of Summit County and the Alcohol Drug Addiction and Mental Health Board of Summit County. A continuous learner, she is a graduate of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s LeadDIVERSITY program and Leadership Akron’s Diversity on Board. A native of northeast Ohio, Tonya earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from The University of Akron.
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
The
Diversity Center of northeast ohio Christopher M. Gorman
CHAIRMAN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, AND PRESIDENT, KEYCORP
C
hristopher M. Gorman is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of KeyCorp, one of the United States’ largest bank-based financial services companies. Chris and his team are responsible for managing $198 billion in assets, leading more than 17,000 teammates, and serving KeyCorp’s 3.5 million clients. He is focused on, and dedicated to, delivering shareholder value; keeping the client experience central to all priorities; lifting and revitalizing communities; and maintaining a diverse, experienced, and engaged board of directors and team. Prior to serving as Chairman and CEO, Chris held many roles spanning three decades of banking experience, including as KeyCorp’s Chief Operating Officer
and President of Banking. Chris was also responsible for leading Key’s integration of First Niagara Financial Group, which was the largest acquisition in Key’s nearly 200-year history. Prior to that, Chris served as the President of Key Corporate Bank, which was comprised of KeyBank Real Estate Capital®, Enterprise Commercial Payments, Key Equipment Finance® and KeyBanc Capital Markets®. Earlier in his career, Chris led KeyBanc Capital Markets and held various leadership roles at McDonald Investments, a registered brokerdealer acquired by KeyCorp in 1998. Chris is a member of the Business Roundtable and serves on the Executive Committee of the
Ohio Business Roundtable. He is a member of the Supervisory Board for The Clearing House, and is an active member of both the Bank Policy Institute (BPI) and its technology policy division, the BITS Committee. Chris is also active in the Cleveland community, serving as a Trustee of the Cleveland Museum of Art and on the board of the University Hospitals Health System, where he also is the Chair of the Audit & Compliance Committee. He is on the Executive Committee of the Greater Cleveland Partnership and serves on the Board of Visitors for the Farmer School of Business at Miami University. Chris received a bachelor’s degree in finance from Miami University in 1983.
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
The
Diversity Center of northeast ohio Robyn Minter Smyers PARTNER, THOMPSON HINE
R
obyn Minter Smyers is a Partner in the Real Estate, Construction and Corporate practice groups at Thompson Hine LLP, as well as a member of the firm’s Executive Committee. She is the immediate past Partnerin-Charge of the firm’s Cleveland office and a former Chair of the firmwide Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiative. Robyn’s legal practice focuses 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. Her forte is coordinating complex transactions, particularly multi-site, multi-state acquisitions and divestitures, ground-up developments, and sale-leaseback deals. She has been involved in many noteworthy
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public impact projects in Cleveland, including the redevelopment of Public Square. Robyn also advises corporations on environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives. Robyn is active with many community organizations focused on civic engagement, philanthropy, education, and diversity, equity & inclusion. She’s served on the board of the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio since 2009 and is the immediate past President of the City Club of Cleveland, where she has served on the board since 2010. Other current and prior commitments include The George W. Codrington Charitable Foundation, The Treu-Mart Fund, The Cleveland Foundation’s African American Philanthropy Committee, The George Gund Foundation, Case Western Reserve University President’s Commission on Student Success, The Links Incorporated
(Western Reserve Chapter) and Museum of Contemporary Art – Cleveland. Robyn has been recognized for her community leadership by many organizations. She was honored as the 2018 Black Professional of the Year by the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation and received the Richard H. Adler Community Leadership Award from the American Jewish Committee (AJC) Cleveland. She is included on numerous lists of top lawyers, including Savoy’s Most Influential Black Lawyers list and Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business. Robyn holds a B.A. from Harvard College and a J.D. from Yale Law School. She is the daughter of Dolly and Steve Minter, married to Bert Smyers, and the proud mother of Thomas, Charlotte and Laurence.
69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration HUMANITARIAN AWARD PAST RECIPIENTS 1949 1951 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
PAUL HOFFMAN LOUIS B. SELTZER JOHN A. GREENE A.M. LUNTZ GEORGE M. HUMPHREY RABBI ABBA HILLEL SILVER BOB HOPE DR. JOHN S. MILLIS DR. T. KEITH GLENNAN JUDGE ANTHONY J. CELEBREZZE HON. LESTER B. PEARSON THOMAS F. PATTON MAURICE SALTZMAN RALPH M. BESSE JOHN CARDINAL KROL FRANCIS A. COY THOMAS VAIL REV. BILLY GRAHAM MR. & MRS. WILLIAM C. TREUHAFT E. MANDELL DE WINDT DR. PAUL W. BRIGGS FREDERICK C. CRAWFORD HON. FRANCES P. BOLTON CHARLES E. SPAHR HERBERT E. STRAWBRIDGE DR. RUBEN F. METTLER ARCHBISHOP JAMES A. HICKEY ARTHUR B. MODELL ALTON W. WHITEHOUSE RABBI ARMOND E. COHEN STANLEY PACE ROBERT GINN SAM MILLER DR. NOLEN ELLISON MAYOR GEORGE VOINOVICH ALLEN C. HOLMES GORDON E. HEFFERN JAMES H. ROSS BP AMERICA EDWARD B. BRANDON SISTER MARY MARTHE REINHARD DOLLY & STEVEN MINTER RICHARD W. POGUE ROBERT W. GILLESPIE MAYOR MICHAEL R. WHITE JOHN LEWIS CONGRESSMAN LOUIS STOKES DR. NEAL MALICKY JACQUELINE WOODS DR. RICHARD A. BOYD ROBERT S. REITMAN DAVID A. & DEBORAH L. DABERKO DAVID G. HILL
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
JUDGE GEORGE W. WHITE DAVID H. HOAG WILLIAM B. SUMMERS, JR. JEANETTE GRASSELLI BROWN ROBERT D. GRIES BISHOP ANTHONY M. PILLA ALEXANDER M. CUTLER HENRY L. MEYER, III JERRY SUE THORNTON, PH.D CAROLE F. HOOVER ALAN D. ROSSKAMM A. MALACHI MIXON, III TERRI HAMILTON BROWN MORRY WEISS ART J. FALCO CHRISTOPHER M. CONNOR EUGENE T.W. SANDERS, PH.D. GOVERNOR TED STRICKLAND FIRST LADY FRANCES STRICKLAND DELOS M. COSGROVE, MD CLEVELAND CLINIC PAUL CLARK & PNC REVEREND DR. OTIS MOSS, JR. EDWINA MOSS MILTON AND TAMAR MALTZ BARBARA R. SNYDER MAYOR FRANK G. JACKSON THOMAS F. ZENTY, III SR. JUDITH ANN KARAM, CSA WILLIAM CONWAY CHARLES D. FOWLER LARRY POLLOCK THOMAS W. ADLER BETH E. MOONEY JOSÉ C. FELICIANO RICK CHIRICOSTA GERI M. PRESTI RONALD B. RICHARD DANIEL P. WALSH RONALD M. BERKMAN, PH.D. MARGOT JAMES COPELAND ERIC S. GORDON BERNIE MORENO RANDELL MCSHEPHARD ENID ROSENBERG MARC S. BYRNES AKRAM BOUTROS, MD, FACHE ALEX JOHNSON, PH.D. SALLY GRIES CRAIG ARNOLD ANDREW BERRY DARRELL L. MCNAIR TOMISLAV MIHALJEVIC, MD
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
SHIFT Consul�ng is the professional services division of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. We work with your organiza�on to SHIFT individual behaviors, interpersonal interac�ons, management prac�ces, procedures, and policies toward inclusion. These prac�ces enable organiza�ons to a�ract, recruit, engage, and retain the world’s best talent. Through our partnerships with business and community leaders, we support the development of inclusive work environments where all feel connected, respected, and valued.
Customized Trainings
Inclusive Solu�ons · · · · · ·
Strategic Planning for Jus�ce, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Culture & Climate Surveys Coaching Implement best prac�ces in talent management of diverse workforces Develop and leverage Diversity Councils and Employee Resource Groups Policy, Procedure, and Environmental Analysis
· · · · · · ·
An�-Racist Organiza�onal Toolkit Creating Inclusive Workplaces Mi�ga�ng Bias in Hiring Privilege and Systemic Inequity Equity, Jus�ce, and Cri�cal Assessment Diversity in Thought using the Hermann Brain Dominance Instrument (HBDI) Iden�ty-specific workshops (e.g., Sexuality and Gender Acceptance, Genera�onal Diversity, Ableism, Intro to Socioeconomic Status, Intro to Diversity in Faith)
Contact us to schedule your free consulta�on and learn more about what SHIFT Consul�ng can do for your organiza�on (216) 752-3000 or SHIFT@diversitycenterneo.org SHIFT Consulting is a division of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
The
Diversity Center of northeast ohio 69TH ANNUAL HONORARY CELEBRATION COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS
Rev. Courtney Clayton-Jenkins Pastor and Teacher South Euclid United Church of Christ
Stewart A. Kohl Co-CEO The Riverside Company
Lillian Kuri President and CEO The Cleveland Foundation
Darrell L. McNair CEO MVP Plastics
CELEBRATION BOARD CO-CHAIRS
Jill Hennessey Market Leader – Commercial Banking Northern Ohio The PNC Financial Services Group
Robert E. Soroka Sr. VP., Retail Executive Fifth Third Bank
69TH ANNUAL HONORARY CELEBRATION COMMITTEE Joanie and Tom Adler Brent D. Ballard Sheryl King Benford Mayor Justin M. Bibb April Miller Boise Kip T. Bollin Alexandria Johnson Boone Amy Brady Joe Compton Margot James Copeland Lynnette Crenshaw Paul and Karen J. Dolan Trina Evans Umberto P. Fedeli Eric Fiala Alyson Fieldman Lee Fisher Uleto Fuentes Thomas Gill Sally and Bob Gries
Mary Lousie Hahn Azadeh and James Hardiman Paul Harris Helena Haynes-Carter Becky and David Heller Jill Hennessey Connie Hill-Johnson Andrean Horton Eric W. Kaler Ariane Kirkpatrick Robert J. Klonk Kelly Lamirand India Pierce Lee Tracie M. Longpre Randell McShepard Dan Moulthrop Randy Paine Pat Pastore Jon J. Pinney Larry and Julia Pollock
Sarah Rathke Audrey and Albert Ratner Deborah Read Ronn Richard Anthony Richardson Enid and David Rosenberg Michael Salkind David Schafer Bill Seelbach Robert C. Smith Robert Soroka Linda A. Striefsky Terry Szmagala James and Frances Waters Shanelle Smith Whigham Karen A. White Vanessa Whiting Lorna Wisham
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
LEADERSHIP CHAMPIONS
KeyBank Thompson Hine DIVERSITY CHAMPION
FirstEnergy
COMMUNITY BUILDERS Cleveland Foundation Stewart A. Kohl Milton and Tamar Maltz Parker Hannifin Corporation
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
EQUALITY ADVOCATES Calfee Halter & Griswold LLC Christopher Connor Cleveland Browns Cleveland Cavaliers Cleveland Clinic Foundation Cleveland Guardians The Cleveland Museum of Art Cuyahoga Community College Deloitte
Eaton Fifth Third Bank George W. Codrington Foundation Medical Mutual John and Karen Nestor The Oatey Company Olympic Steel, Inc. Oswald Companies PNC
The Sherwin-Williams Company Robyn Minter Smyers and Bert Smyers Squire Patton Boggs William Summers, Jr. The Timken Company Treu-Mart Fund, a supporting organization of Cleveland Foundation and the Jewish Federation
UNITY PARTNERS Joanie and Tom Adler Applied Industrial Technologies Cynthia Bassett Benesch Cerity Partners Cleveland Clinic Cleveland State University Dominion Energy Dominion Energy Ohio Diversity Council ERIEBANK First Federal Lakewood
Frantz Ward LLP Humana Stuart and Terri Kline Kohrman Jackson & Krantz Lincoln Electric Littler Mendelson P.C. Margaret W. Wong & Associates Mario and Dana Morino Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District The NRP Group Julia and Larry Pollock
PwC Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Mark D. Ross Alan and Barbara Rosskamm RPM International Inc. United Way of Greater Cleveland Verizon Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging The Wuliger Foundation
FRIENDS Dr. Laura and Harlin Adelman A.E.S. Management Corp. Orlando L. Alvarez, Jr. Warren Anderson Anthony Battle Believe in Reading Sheryl King Benford Case Western Reserve University Rick and Sheila Chiricosta Citymark Capital Cleveland Foundation Nikki Deskovich
First National Bank GOJO Great Lakes Science Center Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority Gries Financial Partners Azadeh and James Hardiman Paul Harris Indus International The Jabali Development Group LJF CPA Mansour Gavin LPA
Darrell and Ronna McNair MetroHealth Playhouse Square Foundation Port of Cleveland Porter Wright James and Susan Ratner Robert P. Madison International Enid and Dr. David Rosenberg Saint Ignatius High School Jerry Sue Thornton Marilyn Wise & Bob Chelfant
PARTNERS ASW Global, LLC BDO USA Fran and Jules Belkin Bernstein Alexandria Boone Burton D. Morgan Foundation Jeri Chaikin Grace and Rev. Kenneth Chalker Bonnie and Mike Cole College Now Greater Cleveland Joe Compton Greg Cowan Alyson Fieldman Fisher Phillips Richard Fisher Thomas Gill
Larry Goldberg Goldfarb Weber Creative Media Allan Goldner Jeanette Grasselli Brown Mary Louise Hahn Jill and Jim Hennessey Jane and Michael Horvitz Robert J. King, Jr. Jonathan Leiken Mr. and Mrs. Morton Q. Levin Tracy M. Longpre William MacDonald III McDonald Hopkins Amy and Marc Morganstern Stephen O’Bryan Zack and Debby Paris
Stamy Paul Indian Pierce Lee Richard Pogue Ronald and Deborah Ratner Robert Rawson, Jr. RDM Foundation David Rowan Jeffrey Sabatine Jim and Anne Schoff Rob & Joyce Soroka Taras Szmagala, Jr. Team NEO Mayor David E. Weiss Robert Wolff and Paula Silverman As of November 3, 2023
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
LEADERSHIP CHAMPIONS
DIVERSITY CHAMPION
COMMUNITY BUILDERS
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
EQUALITY ADVOCATES
Christopher Connor
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
EQUALITY ADVOCATES
William Summers, Jr.
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
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Great Lakes Science Center congratulates the 2023 Humanitarian Award honorees, Robyn Minter Smyers, Partner, Thompson Hine Christopher Gorman, Chairman, CEO and President, KeyCorp.
Thank you for your work building the future of Northeast Ohio!
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
Cleveland State University College of Law
Dean Lee Fisher
And Our Students, Faculty, & Staff Congratulate The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
2023 Humanitarian Award Honorees
Robyn Minter Smyers Partner, Thompson Hine
SU
Christopher Gorman
Chairman, CEO & President, KeyCorp
Our Degrees Juris Doctor -JD Part-time Online Juris Doctor -JD Master of Laws - LL.M. Master of Legal Studies - MLS Online MLS in Cybersecurity & Data Privacy - MLS
CSULAW.ORG
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
LeadDIVERSITY is a program in which a select group of professionals engage with community leaders and one another to raise the participants’ awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion issues, build their leadership skills, and enhance their network. For more information, please email Jessica Daigler, Director of LeadDIVERSITY, at jdaigler@diversitycenterneo.org!
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
“A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.” ~St. Basil the Great, Bishop of Caesarea The Fedeli Group is happy to support The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
The Fedeli Group sends our warmest congratulations to Robyn Minter Smyers and Christopher Gorman on receiving the well-deserved Humanitarian Award. Thank you for your significant contributions and commitment to our wonderful community. Your leadership, values of mutual respect, and outstanding humanitarian achievements have made a difference in the lives of many individuals. 5005 Rockside Road ~ Fifth Floor Independence, OH 44131 (216) 328-8080 ~ 800-837-7191 ~ Fax (216) 328-8081 www.thefedeligroup.com
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
Congratulations Robyn Minter Smyers
69th Humanitarian Award Honoree We are so very proud of you and the amazing trail you blaze every day! Your Loving Family, Bert, Thomas, Charlotte & Laurence Smyers
NEW HEIGHTS RESEARCH CONGRATULATES ROBYN MINTER SMYERS AND CHRISTOPHER GORMAN AS RECIPIENTS OF THE DIVERSITY CENTER’S 69TH ANNUAL HUMANITARIAN AWARDS. We are proud to celebrate these leaders – and the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio – for the work they do to improve the lives of each of us in the community.
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
Congratulations! Teach Acceptance, Build Community Congratulations to Robyn Minter Smyers and Christopher M. Gorman on receiving The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s 69th Annual Humanitarian Award. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in our communities!
“We’re trying to do something that has never been done before. We’re trying to create the Earth’s first mass, multicultural democratic republic.”
-Eric Liu
Congratulations to Chris Gorman and Robyn Minter Smyers.
Thank you for choosing this work. We stand with you and The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. Learn more at cityclub.org
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69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
Lighting the way, today–and every day. Congratulations to Maggie Myers and Tonya Shelton on being this year’s recipients of the Outstanding LeadDIVERSITY Alumni Award.
Tracie Longpre, Board Chair, and The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio Board of Directors send warmest congratulations to the 2023 Humanitarian Award Honorees: Robyn Minter Smyers and Christopher M. Gorman.
Creating communities where all people are connected, respected, and valued.
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio Congratulations to 2023 Humanitarian Award Winners
Robyn Minter Smyers and
Christopher Gorman Milton & Tamar Maltz
Michael Salkind Honors Robyn Minter Smyers
April 18th – April 20th, 2024
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Congratulations Robyn Minter Smyers and Christopher M. Gorman on receiving the 2023 Humanitarian Award. Shari Obrenski, President American Federation of Teachers Local 279 • OFT • AFL-CIO
www.ctu279.org
ACTIVISM: Student Change-Makers
69th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
Congratulations Robyn Minter Smyers & Christopher Gorman! We are inspired by your leadership and dedication to others, and your constant striving for equity and justice.
Robyn Minter Smyers, Executive Committee Member and Partner, Thompson Hine
Christopher Gorman, Chairman, CEO & President, KeyCorp
We are proud to join
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio in celebrating its 69th Annual Humanitarian Award Dinner
ThompsonHine.com
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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
In Memory of Robert D. Gries
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio recognizes his long-standing contribution to our mission and vision. Bob has served the organization with dedication, integrity, and compassion for many years. His friendship is valued by all who knew him. 32 | www.diversitycenterneo.org