The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio's 71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

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71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

2025-26 DIVERSITY CENTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE OFFICERS Tracie M. Longpre Chair Cipriano S. Beredo, III Past Chair Orlando Alvarez, Jr. Vice Chair Sheryl King Benford Vice Chair

Jeri Chaikin Vice Chair Alyson Fieldman Vice Chair Azadeh Hardiman Vice Chair

Harlin Adelman Arlene Anderson Anthony Battle Conor Kenney Cindy Fisher Allan Goldner Jill E. Hennessey Shannon F. Jerse

Bonnie L. Kristan Gregg LaBar Steffany Larkins Leighton McCoy Robyn Minter Smyers Jessika Poldruhi Adam Roth Fareed Siddiq

Thomas W. Adler Cynthia Bassett Rev. Kenneth W. Chalker Bernard A. Finkelstein Robert D. Gries** David J. Hooker Robert J. King, Jr. Stuart F. Kline

William E. MacDonald, III Hugh E. McKay Neal Malicky, Ph.D.** John G. Nestor Stephen M. O’Bryan Larry Pollock Alan D. Rosskamm Michael J. Salkind

Adam Roth Vice Chair Greg Skoda, Jr. Vice Chair Mark Swaim-Fox ∆ President & CEO

DIRECTORS

Naomi Sigg Dalithia Smith Robert E. Soroka Kate Vlasek Natoya Walker Minor, Ph.D. Simon Wilkins Sheldon Wray

LIFE DIRECTORS

James A. Schoff Terry C. Stewart William B. Summers, Jr. Robert M. Wolff Margaret W. Wong

∆ ex-officio Member of the Board ** of blessed memory

DIVERSITY CENTER STAFF Mark Swaim-Fox President & CEO

Miles Kalainaina Senior DEIB Specialist

Amanda Cooper, Ph.D., CDP Vice President/Chief Operating Officer

Jeff Modzelewski Director of Engagement

Jessica A. Daigler, M.A. Director, LeadDIVERSITY

Lorraine Pennick Nash Senior Office Administrator

Cierra Hilson Chief Fundraiser & Marketing Officer

Em Richards Senior DEIB Specialist

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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my distinct honor to welcome you to The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s 71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration. Your support of our mission is deeply appreciated and vital to our continued progress.

Reflecting on a year marked by social and political polarization, I am reminded of Dante Alighieri’s timeless insight: “Mankind is at its best when most free.” When individuals are empowered to express themselves and make their own choices, they unlock their fullest potential—enriching society through diverse perspectives and creative contributions. Although the terms diversity, equity, and inclusion have been weaponized, creating significant challenges for our work, the value and benefits of our programming remain clear. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of our outstanding leadership team and staff, we continue to forge meaningful partnerships and expand our reach, creating lasting impact throughout Northeast Ohio.

For nearly a century, The Diversity Center has been committed to empowering individuals and organizations to embrace Diversity in all its forms and create communities where everyone belongs.

Your support enables us to inspire a new generation of students and future leaders—encouraging them to embrace their differences and become agents of change for fairness, equal opportunity, and inclusion.

Tonight, we celebrate the extraordinary dedication of Kirsten M. Ellenbogen and Vanessa L. Whiting. Both honorees exemplify how teaching acceptance and modeling inclusive leadership can build stronger, more resilient communities.

• Kirsten M. Ellenbogen, Ph.D., President & CEO, Great Lakes Science Center, has built strong community partnerships and programming that have won national recognition while fulfilling a vision of building a community where all people value STEM to inform decision making and enrich lives. She has also provided her leadership in field-advancing initiatives including the Museum Learning Collaborative, the Center for Informal Learning and Schools, the Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network, and serving as co-principal investigator of the Center for Advancement of Informal Science Education. She is Board Chair of the Cleveland Water Alliance, Secretary of the board of the North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation, co-founder of the Northeast Ohio STEM Ecosystem Collaborative, serves on the board of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum and on the Committee of Visitors for the Washkewicz College of Engineering. She also has been recognized by numerous organizations including the Community Inspiration Award at STEMCON, Crain’s Women of Note Award, Crain’s Notable Women in STEM, Cleveland Magazine Women Living STEM, and Cleveland 500 Leaders, Doers, Visionaries, & Idea Generators Who Shape the City.

• Vanessa L. Whiting, President of A.E.S. Management Corporation (a Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen franchisee in Northeast Ohio), employs over 420 Cuyahoga and Summit County residents at its thirteen locations where she is a strong proponent of second and third-chance employment. Ms. Whiting currently serves as Chair of the Board of the United Way of Greater Cleveland and Vice Chair of the Cleveland State University Board of Trustees. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Greater Cleveland Partnership and serves on the Board of Directors of Olympic Steel. Her efforts as a community and business leader, philanthropist and change maker have been recognized by a variety of organizations including Crain’s Women of Note, the NAACP President’s Award, the Cleveland YWCA Women of Achievement Award, the Maltz Museum Heritage Award, the Black Professional of the Year, and induction into the Women of Color Hall of Fame.

We also extend our gratitude to our Honorary Humanitarian Award Celebration Co-Chairs -- Peggy Zone Fisher, Brian E. Hall, Carole F. Hoover, Darrell L. McNair, Albert B. Ratner, Renee Tramble Richard, Robyn Minter Smyers, Carla Tricarichi, and Rev. Ryan Wallace – and to the Honorary Dinner Committee members whose dedication has made this event possible.

Special thanks are due to our Board Co-Chairs, Jill Hennessey and Rob Soroka, for their exceptional leadership, and to our President and CEO, Mark Swaim-Fox, and the entire staff of The Diversity Center, whose tireless efforts drive our mission forward.

As John F. Kennedy wisely observed, “If we cannot now end our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity.” In today’s climate, this message is more urgent than ever. It captures the essence of acceptance and the need for coexistence among individuals with differing opinions, beliefs, and backgrounds. It emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity and nurturing an environment that allows for the expression of varying perspectives without fear or judgment. The Diversity Center’s work—through the transformative power of education—empowers individuals and communities to build healthy relationships, champion decency, and redefine diversity as a source of strength. Now, more than ever, we must invest in education that nurtures understanding and inclusion, ensuring every voice is valued and every difference respected.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we challenge misconceptions and embrace diversity as a true source of strength for our community.

Tracie Longpre Board Chair,

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

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71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

Welcome to our 71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration. This evening is more than a celebration; it is a powerful reminder of the collective strength that emerges when people come together with purpose, compassion, and a shared belief in equity and belonging.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our Honorary Celebration CoChairs Peggy Zone Fisher, Brian E. Hall, Carole F. Hoover, Darrell L. McNair, Albert B. Ratner, Renee Tramble Richard, Robyn Minter Smyers, Carla Tricarichi, and Rev. Ryan Wallace; our Board Celebration Co-Chairs Jill Hennessey and Rob Soroka; and our Master of Ceremonies, Russ Mitchell, Channel 3 News Anchor, WKYC-TV 3. Their dedication and leadership are an inspiration, and their support makes this evening possible.

This year, we are proud to honor Kirsten M. Ellenbogen, President & CEO of the Great Lakes Science Center, and Vanessa L. Whiting, President of A.E.S. Management Corp. Both honorees embody the spirit of the Humanitarian Award. Their steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging is not only visible in their leadership but also in the lives they touch and the communities they strengthen. Their example reminds us that advancing justice and equity is courageous work, and it is work that changes lives.

At The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, we have embraced a renewed mission: to empower people and organizations to embrace all forms of diversity and create communities where everyone belongs. This mission is both urgent and vital. Across the U.S., diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts are facing unprecedented resistance and political pushback. In today’s climate, the word “diversity” itself is often misunderstood, politicized, or even vilified.

This reality makes our work more challenging, but also more essential than ever. We are not deterred. In fact, our resolve has only grown stronger. We remain firmly committed to standing on the side of truth, compassion, and justice. We know that democracy thrives when diverse voices come together, and we know that our communities are stronger when every person is seen, valued, and included.

That is why tonight we are proud to launch our #ReaffirmDiversity campaign. This campaign is our public declaration that diversity is not a weakness, it is our greatest strength. It is a promise to our students, our partners, and our community that we will not be silenced. Running through spring 2026, #ReaffirmDiversity will take shape through print ads, video, and social media, boldly affirming that inclusion and belonging are essential to our shared future.

Your support tonight makes this work possible. By contributing to our Fund A Need, you are directly fueling the #ReaffirmDiversity campaign and ensuring its message resonates across Northeast Ohio and beyond. Together, we will push back against division and fear with unity, courage, and love.

Thank you for standing with us, for believing in this mission, and for committing to a future where every person belongs. The road ahead is not without challenge, but together we will continue to move forward, building bridges, creating understanding, and reaffirming that diversity is, and always will be, our strength.

Mark O. Swaim-Fox President & CEO

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

Scan to donate to Fund-A-Need

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 2024-2025 fiscal year, our generous donors’ support has empowered over 3,700 students and educators to engage in 132 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.

CHANGING LIVES WITH PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT • 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 your organization to SHIFT individual behaviors, interpersonal interactions, management practices, procedures, and policies to create inclusive and equitable opportunities that

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foster feelings of belonging for everyone. These practices enable organizations to attract, recruit, engage, and retain top talent.

• 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.

BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES

• The 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.

• The Unity Challenge brought together teams from all over Northeast Ohio to directly support our community-based leadership programming for students and professionals.

These teams made a real impact on inclusion through their volunteer hours and inclusion actions and had a blast lifting our community together.

• 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.

71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration CELEBRATION TESTIMONIALS “Problem-solving gives people a chance to share their opinions and be heard. Understanding that everyone has a role and must play their part for the team to succeed. I love the facilitator and wish to do more activities like this!”

“The presenter was very thorough and helpful. I learned a lot in my session. This would be valuable for all staff members!”

- Educator Professional Development, Building Relationships & Creating Inclusive Educational Environments

- YouLEAD Problem-Solving & Teamwork “I love these exercises, and I wish more companies went through this kind of training. Thank you so much!”

- SHIFT Consulting, Fostering Collaborate Teamwork

“Diversity means other people have different thoughts, opinions, and family. Like me and my friend, we agree on some things and disagree on others.”

- YouLEAD Jr. Building Compassionate Schools

“I can remember and remind those around me that we are all human and us showing up for each other matters.”

- YouLEAD #RethinkLabels

“Both presenters were very engaging.

Great information and examples of strategies for disrupting bias.”

- SHIFT Consulting, Creating Inclusive Workplaces

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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

THE DIVERSITY CENTER OF NORTHEAST OHIO PROGRAM SPONSORS The Char and Chuck Fowler Family Foundation

The Nordson Corporation

The Cleveland Foundation

Parker Hannifin

Community Foundation of Lorain County

PNC

Cuyahoga Arts and Culture

The Roy A. Hunt Foundation

Diebold Nixdorf

The Sisler McFawn Foundation

Eaton Charitable Fund

The St. Lukes Foundation

The George W. Codrington Charitable Foundation

Synthomer

Giant Eagle

The Treu-Mart Foundation

Key Bank Foundation

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO HAVE HELPED US WITH IN-KIND GIFTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Azadeh Hardiman

Hyland Software

City Ballet of Cleveland

LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland

Cleveland City Dance

Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage

Cleveland Public Theatre

Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream

Council President Blaine Griffin, City of Cleveland

Near West Theatre

Council Representative Jenny Spencer, City of Cleveland

Neighborhood Family Practice

Eaton

Northwest Neighborhoods

Fairfax Renaissance Development Corporation

Orlando Alvarez

Flynn Group

Progressive

Giant Eagle

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Gordon Sims

Saint Ignatius High School

Great Lakes Science Center

Woodhouse Spa

The

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71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

2025 EVENING PROGRAM EVENING HOST

RUSS MITCHELL Evening News Anchor, WKYC-TV-3

WELCOME

TRACIE M. LONGPRE VP, Supply Chain, Applied Industrial Technologies Board Chair, DCNEO

2025 DIVERSITY EDUCATION LEADERSHIP AWARD

JANETTA HAMMOCK,

2025 LEADDIVERSITY OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARD

JEFFRIANNE WILDER, PH.D.

(VIDEO PRESENTATION) REAFFIRM DIVERSITY

ROBYN MINTER SMYERS

VP for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging and students from Magnificat High School

Executive Director, Oberlin College Center For DEI Innovation & Leadership/Assoc.

Professor of Sociology

Partner, Thompson Hine Board Director, DCNEO

DINNER IS SERVED THE DIVERSITY CENTER TODAY

MARK SWAIM-FOX President & CEO, DCNEO

PRESENTATION OF HUMANITARIAN AWARDS

INTRODUCTION OF KIRSTEN M. ELLENBOGEN, PH.D. MARGOT JAMES COPELAND & ERIC GORDON

ACCEPTANCE

KIRSTEN M. ELLENBOGEN, PH.D. President & CEO, Great Lakes Science Center

INTRODUCTION OF VANESSA L. WHITING RENEE TRAMBLE RICHARD & ALBERT RATNER

ACCEPTANCE

VANESSA L. WHITING President, A.E.S. Management Corp.

CLOSING REMARKS

RUSS MITCHELL Evening News Anchor, WKYC-TV-3 Interpretation services – Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 9

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio 2025 DIVERSITY, EDUCATION, AND STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD

Magnificat High School – YouLead DEIB Program In spring 2025, Magnificat High School launched its inaugural YouLead Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Workshop Series, engaging 39 students from diverse class groups and backgrounds. Selected through nominations by school club moderators and an application process overseen by the Diversity Office, participants took part in a four-part leadership development program designed to strengthen their understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion while cultivating their confidence as student leaders.

The workshops, Building Compassionate Schools, Upstander Training, #RethinkLabels, and Student Leadership, offered students practical skills and meaningful dialogue around creating inclusive communities. Students reported increased awareness of DEIB issues and stronger leadership abilities upon completing the series.

Graduates of the program received certificates, diversity leader sweatshirts, and pins to mark their accomplishment. Several were also invited to share their experiences with the school’s DEIB Advisory Committee, reflecting the program’s impact in empowering young leaders to become advocates for equity and belonging within their school and beyond.

2025 DIVERSITY EDUCATION & CITIZENSHIP LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT Janetta M. Hammock, MS, CDP Magnificat High School

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anetta M. Hammock is Vice President for Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) at Magnificat High School, a Catholic, all-girls college preparatory school located in Rocky River, Ohio.

In her role, Hammock works to foster a culture of belonging across the school community and develops and implements a comprehensive equity and inclusion strategic plan for the organization. Additionally, she provides cultural competency training for school constituents, moderates student affinity groups, and leads the work of the school’s Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Advisory Committee.

Prior to her work at Magnificat, Hammock held leadership positions at Clevelandarea universities, including Director of Strategic Initiatives at Case Western Reserve University and Director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs at John Carroll University. She also served as Assistant Director in the Office of Government and Public Affairs at the American Council on Education in Washington, D.C. A Certified Diversity Professional (CDP), Hammock earned master’s degrees in philosophy with an emphasis in diversity management from Cleveland State University and in African American Studies from Morgan State University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Michigan State University.

Hammock currently serves on the board of The Network, a national Catholic social justice organization.

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71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration 2025 LeadDIVERSITY OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARD Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder

Sociologist, writer, and leading thought leader

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r. JeffriAnne Wilder is a sociologist, writer, and leading thought leader whose career bridges academic research, executive leadership, and public engagement. As a consultant, speaker, coach, and commentator, she specializes in intersectional equity, with particular focus on anti-racism and women’s empowerment. She currently serves as the Executive Director of the Center for DEI Innovation and Leadership at Oberlin College, where she leads transformative initiatives that connect students, community partners, and senior DEI leaders to drive innovation and leadership in higher education and beyond.

As a scholar and teacher for 20 years, JeffriAnne has served in a variety of faculty and executive roles. From 2008 to 2018, she was a tenured Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of North Florida and the Founding Director of the Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnic Relations. From 2018 to 2023, she served as Senior Research Faculty and Director of Racial Equity & Strategy at the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT), the only national nonprofit dedicated to advancing women in computing across education, industry, and entrepreneurship. Most recently, she was the curriculum designer and Senior Lecturer for Glasgow Caledonian New York College, helping to launch one of the nation’s first global master’s programs in DEI leadership.

Dr. Wilder is also a prolific public scholar and commentator. She is regularly featured on TV, radio, podcasts, and print media for her insights on culture and society—from hip-hop and professional sports to politics, higher education, and social justice. She is deeply passionate about connecting sociology to everyday life, especially the issues that shape the experiences of women, girls, and communities of color.

Her academic journey reflects a lifelong commitment to intersectional inquiry. She earned her Ph.D. in Sociology, with a concentration in Women’s Studies and Gender Research, from the University of Florida, an M.A. in Sociology from Cleveland State University, and a B.A. from Allegheny College. She is also a proud graduate of Hathaway Brown School. Today, Dr. Wilder remains actively involved in the HB community, serving on the Alumnae Council and leading the Black Alumnae Affinity Group.

Dr. Wilder is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and is deeply committed to mentorship and service. Across her career, she has chaired dozens of theses and dissertations, mentored over 200 students, and championed equity and leadership development for underrepresented communities.

Beyond her professional achievements, JeffriAnne is the proud mother of two daughters, Lela and Avalyn. She is a strong advocate for working mothers, particularly moms of color, and champions family-friendly policies such as paid parental leave, affordable childcare, and flexible work arrangements. In her free time, she is a self-professed football fanatic, cheering on her beloved Cleveland Browns and University of Florida Gators.

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 35 participants is selected through a competitive application process.

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 Peggy Zone Fisher LeadDIVERSITY Outstanding Alumni Award Recipient 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 2012

Lorna Wisham Rockette Richardson Ewell Tina Myles Cedric Haggins Pat Ross Ferry Christopher Johnson Jennifer Opphile

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Thomasine Clark George Sample Ingrid Angel Paula Calmer John E. Betterson, Jr., Ph.D. Courtney Fugate

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2023 2024

Elizabeth “Liz” Anderson Marcia V. Moreno Rebecca Scina Carla L. Chapman Maggie K. Myers Tonya Woods Shelton Jen Hughes

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 11

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

The

Diversity Center of northeast ohio Kirsten M. Ellenbogen, Ph.D. PRESIDENT & CEO GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

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he hallmark of Kirsten’s leadership at Great Lakes Science Center is strong community partnerships, such as the Cleveland Metropolitan School District collaboration for grades 6-8 that offers programming on circuitry, energy, and blockchain. This program was honored as a 2021 Institute of Museum and Library Services National Medal finalist. Partnerships also have driven strategic initiatives that Kirsten developed with corporate leaders to change the community’s narrative around advanced manufacturing. This work was recognized by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, which selected the Science Center as the launch site for the National Week of Making with Mythbusters host Adam Savage in 2016. The effort evolved into a collaboration with MAGNET to develop engaging interactive exhibits in their new headquarters and an enticing new STEM-based playground. The enduring impacts of these community partnerships are measured in longlasting changes to how participants see themselves as people who can take on scientific and engineering challenges at work or in daily life, or sometimes simply

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by the smiles of the families using the STEM playground.

likelihood of exposure to and uptake of misinformation.

Kirsten’s energetic leadership on field-advancing initiatives include the Museum Learning Collaborative, the Center for Informal Learning and Schools, the Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network, and serving as co-principal investigator of the Center for Advancement of Informal Science Education. She was elected Secretary of the board and co-chair of the conference planning committee of the Association of Science and Technology Centers, serving more than 600 science centers in 48 countries. She was appointed to the National Academy of Sciences’ committee that produced the report Learning Science in Informal Environments and chaired the Convocation on the Status of Informal Science Education.

Kirsten co-chaired the National Academies Committee on Advancing Science Communication and serves on the Board on Science Education whose recent reports include Understanding and Addressing Misinformation about Science, designed to guide the discussion on improving access to high-quality scientific information and reduce the

She is passionate about Cleveland and has been honored to lead the Science Center in playing important roles that helped put the city in the spotlight for the 2016 Republican National Convention, the 2021 National Football League Draft, and the 2024 total solar eclipse. She served on the Mayor’s Sustainable City Committee, the Planning and Urban Design Committee of the Group Plan Commission, and is a proud alumna of the 2014 class of Leadership Cleveland. She is Board Chair of the Cleveland Water Alliance, Secretary of the board of the North Coast Waterfront Development Corporation, and co-founder of the Northeast Ohio STEM Ecosystem Collaborative. She also serves on the board of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum and on the Committee of Visitors for the Washkewicz College of Engineering. She received her Ph.D. in Science Education from Vanderbilt University and her B.A. from the University of Chicago. She lives in Shaker Heights with her husband, a Cleveland Metropolitan School District teacher, and their two children.

71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

The

Diversity Center of northeast ohio Vanessa L. Whiting PRESIDENT, A.E.S. MANAGEMENT CORP.

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anessa L. Whiting is the President of A.E.S. Management Corporation, a Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen franchisee in Northeast Ohio. A.E.S. Management Corp., which employs over 420 Cuyahoga and Summit County residents at its thirteen Popeyes locations, provides meaningful workforce experience and opportunity to individuals throughout the community. After the passing of her late husband, Anthony E. Smith, the founder of A.E.S. Management Corp., Ms. Whiting assumed leadership and serves as CEO. Ms. Whiting is also a developer and attorney with extensive experience in economic and community development law, real estate law, tax credit law, public finance, and small business enterprise law. She has served as counsel to lenders, developers, and business owners, and as both bond and underwriter’s counsel. She has consulted on numerous low-income housing tax credit projects, conventional market-rate housing, and commercial retail developments. She has been recognized by Northeast Ohio Live as one of the top 100 attorneys in the State of Ohio. Ms. Whiting is currently active in real estate development and engaged in several ongoing projects.

Ms. Whiting began her legal career as an associate at Bryan Cave in St. Louis, Missouri, and later at Calfee Halter in Cleveland, Ohio.

She founded her own firm in 1995, practiced as a sole practitioner until 2007, and became a partner at Roetzel & Andress. In 2011, she reestablished her firm, continuing to support efforts to revitalize Cleveland’s neighborhoods. She has been licensed to practice law in Missouri, Ohio, Illinois, and the

District of Columbia and currently maintains her Ohio license.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Policy from Duke University (with honors), a Master of Science in Urban Affairs and Public Policy from Southern Illinois University (with honors), and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Illinois.

Her interests include social justice, minority business development, community development, the arts, politics, education, and healthcare. In 2012, she led the successful effort to establish a standing Board Committee on Diversity and Inclusion, becoming the founding architect of MetroHealth’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion framework.. A committed social justice advocate, Ms. Whiting is a strong proponent of second and third-chance employment and believes deeply in developing people and prioritizing people over profit.

Ms. Whiting currently serves as Chair of the Board of the United Way of Greater Cleveland, and Vice Chair of the Cleveland State University Board of Trustees. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Greater Cleveland Partnership and former co-chair of the Equity and Inclusion Committee. She also serves on the Board of Directors of Olympic Steel and is Board liaison to the One Olympic Committee.

Ms. Whiting is a former Chair of the Board of Directors of Metro Health where she also chaired the Diversity & Inclusion Committee, the Legal and Government Relations Committee, the Governance Committee, and served as Board Secretary. She is a former member of the Cuyahoga Community

College Foundation Board, former Chair of the Economic Development Committee of the Cleveland Branch of the NAACP, a former Board Member of the Cleveland Branch NAACP, and a lifelong member. She has also served on the boards of the Cleveland Housing Network, Vice President, Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, New Village Corporation, President, Playhouse Square, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Ms. Whiting is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Alpha Omega Chapter), The LINKS, Inc. (Cleveland Chapter), The Northeasterners, and the Cleveland Chapter of Jack and Jill Associates.

She is an elder at Fairmount Presbyterian Church in Cleveland Heights, having served on its Session and as Clerk of Session. She has chaired the Mission and Personnel Committees, taught Sunday School, and led the Faith Formation Committee. She has also served as a mentor within her faith community.

Her efforts as a community and business leader, philanthropist and change maker have been recognized by a variety of organizations with accolades such as the Soul of Philanthropy’s Legends Award, Giving Black, Crains Women of Note, Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Building Our Economic Wealth Award, the NAACP President’s Award, the Cleveland YWCA Women of Achievement Award , the Maltz Museum Heritage Award , the Black Professional of the Year, and induction into the Women of Color Hall of Fame and many more.

She is the proud mother of three adult children: Taylor, Lorin, and Anthony Smith, II.

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 13

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio 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

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1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

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 CHRISTOPHER M. GORMAN ROBYN MINTER SMYERS KEVIN CLAYTON PEGGY ZONE FISHER

71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

SHIFT Consulting is the professional services division of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. We work with your organization to SHIFT individual behaviors, interpersonal interactions, management practices, procedures, and policies to create inclusive and equitable opportunities that foster feelings of belonging for everyone. These practices enable organizations to attract, recruit, engage, and retain top talent.

Through our partnerships with businesses and organizations, we promote a positive work culture where all feel connected, respected, and valued.

Customized Trainings

Inclusive Solutions Strategic Planning for Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion • JEDI Culture & Climate Surveys • Develop and leverage Diversity Councils and Employee Resource Groups • Policy and Procedure Analysis through JEDI lens •

• • • • • • • •

Creating Inclusive Workplaces Mitigating Bias in Hiring Building Bridges Across Generations Equity, Justice, and Critical Assessment Equitable Policies and Procedures Sexuality & Gender Acceptance Psychological Safety 1-Hour Lunch & Learn Programs:

Contact us to schedule your free consultation and learn more about what SHIFT Consulting can do for your organization.

(216) 752-3000 or SHIFT@diversitycenterneo.org SHIFT Consulting is a division of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 15

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

The

Diversity Center of northeast ohio

71ST ANNUAL HONORARY HOST COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS

Peggy Zone Fisher

First Lady, Baldwin Wallace University Past President & CEO, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

Brian E. Hall

CEO Specialized Construction, Inc.

Renee Tramble Richard

President & CEO, Corporate College Senior Advisor & Counsel to the President Cuyahoga Community College

Carole F. Hoover President & CEO HooverMilstein

Robyn Minter Smyers Partner Thompson Hine

Darrell L. McNair

Albert B. Ratner

Chief Executive Officer MVP Plastics Corporation

Carla Tricarichi Tricarichi & Carnes

Partner RMS

Rev. Ryan Wallace Senior Pastor Fairmount Presbyterian Church

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

71ST ANNUAL HONORARY HOST COMMITTEE Kristen Baird Adams Harlin Adelman Orlando L. Alvarez, Jr. Arlene Anderson Michael A. Baston Sheryl King Benford Anthony Battle Cipriano S. Beredo, III Jeri E. Chaikin Dr. Jacklyn A. Chisholm Kevin Clayton Christopher M. Connor Rhonda Crowder Helen Forbes Fields

Alyson and Matthew Fieldman Cindy Fisher Allan Goldner Azadeh and James Hardiman Tiffany L. Hollinger Kate Hubben Shannon Jerse Vickie Johnson Sharon Sobol Jordan Mr. Nicholas Barendt & Dr. Robin Jump Conor Kenney Ariane Kirkpatrick Bonnie L. Kristan Gregg LaBar

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Jazmin Long Tracie M. Longpre Sandra Madison Randell and Gail McShepard Natoya Walker Minor Amy and Marc Morgenstern Dan Moulthrop Megan O’Bryan Jeremy and Katie Paris Pat Pastore Jessika Poldruhi Meltrice Sharp & LaRese Purnell David and Cynthia Reynolds Claire Rosacco

Enid and Dr. David Rosenberg Adam Roth Fareed Siddiq Naomi Sigg Elizabeth and Bradley Sherman Greg Skoda Dalithia Smith Sharon Sobol Jordan Timothy Tramble Tony G. Weber Simon Wilkins Sheldon Wray Kate Vlasek

71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

LEADERSHIP CHAMPIONS

A.E.S. Management Corp.

INCLUSION CHAMPION

KeyBank Alan and Barbara Rosskamm COMMUNITY BUILDERS Eaton Milton and Tamar Maltz Medical Mutual Thompson Hine

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The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

EQUALITY ADVOCATES CLE Consulting Firm Cleveland Browns Cleveland Cavaliers Cleveland-Cliffs Connor Foundation Cuyahoga Community College Fifth Third Bank

Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP The Jabali Group Lincoln Electric Margaret Wong & Associates John and Karen Moss North East Ohio Place Makers Oatey Company

Oswald Companies PNC Audrey and Albert Ratner Robyn Minter Smyers and Bert Smyers Squire Patton Boggs (US) LLP

UNITY PARTNERS Joanie and Tom Adler Carol Barnak Cynthia Bassett Benesch, Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff LLP Carol F. Hoover and Cleveland Private Trust Company Cleveland State University Cleveland State University College of Law First Federal Lakewood Fisher & Phillips LLP

Frantz Ward LLP Friends of Vanessa Azadeh and James Hardiman John Carroll University Stuart and Terri Kline Lee Fisher, President, Baldwin Wallace University and Peggy Zone Fisher Olympic Steel Parker Hannifin Corporation Larry and Julia Pollock

PwC Enid and Dr. David Rosenberg RPM International Inc. Fareed Siddiq Merrill Lynch Dr. Paula Silverman and Rob Wolff Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP The Timken Company United Way of Greater Cleveland Lorna Wisham

FRIENDS African American Philanthropy Committee of the Cleveland Foundation Nicolas Barendt and Dr. Robin Jump Tony and Lucy Battle BDO USA, P.C. Vivian Delores Davis Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority

Hollinger Financial LLC Thomas E. and Marsha G. Hopkins Kirsten’s Fan Club Bonnie L. Kristan The NRP Group Pinkney Perry/Hylant Port of Cleveland

David and Cynthia Reynolds Robert P. Madison International Inc. Step Forward Bill and Pam Summers Jerry Sue Thornton YWCA of Greater Cleveland

PARTNERS Harlin Adleman Orlando Alverez, Jr. Warren Anderson Sheryl King Benford Birthing Beautiful Communities Jeri Chaikin City of Shaker Heights Cleveland Museum of Art Enterprise Community Partners Alyson and Matthew Fieldman Freedom to Learn Foundation Marcia L. Fudge Goldfarb Weber Creative Media/ Tony Weber

Paul Harris Jill and Jim Hennessey Richard Horvitz and Erica Hartman-Horvitz Tracie Longpre & Nicole Dauria Elizabeth Klein Mr. and Mrs. Morton Q. Levin Ken and Mary Ellen Liang LJF Accounting Services William MacDonald, III Ginger Mlakar, The Cleveland Foundation Beth Mooney Amy and Marc Morgenstern Shelly and Rob Peet Martinko Kim and Paul Pesses

Richard W. Pogue Linda Rae Rhonda Crowder & Associates Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Renee Romana and Sean Decatur David W. Rowan Meredith Seikel St. Lukes Foundation Bud and Donna Thomas Michelle Tomallo Rev. Ryan Wallace Angela Wilcoxson Winston Electric

As of November 17, 2025

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71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

LEADERSHIP CHAMPIONS INCLUSION CHAMPION

COMMUNITY BUILDERS

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 19

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

EQUALITY ADVOCATES

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71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

EQUALITY ADVOCATES

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 21

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

Cleveland State University College of Law congratulates The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

2025 Humanitarian Award Honorees

KIRSTEN M. ELLENBOGEN President & CEO Great Lakes Science Center

VANESSA L. WHITING President A.E.S. Management Corp.

for their remarkable leadership that has left a lasting mark on our community through unwavering commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion!

SU

Our Degrees Juris Doctor - JD Part-time Online JD Master of Laws - LL.M. Master of Legal Studies - MLS Online MLS in Cybersecurity & Data Privacy - MLS

CSULAW.ORG

22 | www.diversitycenterneo.org

71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 23

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

one open door can open doors across a community.

Our most important work happens outside the four walls of our bank. KeyBank gets involved by supporting people who make a difference and working with communityfocused organizations through investments, philanthropy, and volunteering. Together we can keep our communities full of hope, compassion, and opportunity. KeyBank thanks The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio for making a difference.

©2025 KeyCorp®. All rights reserved. KeyBank Member FDIC. 250113-2950330-1295039002

24 | www.diversitycenterneo.org

71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

We extend our sincere congratulations to this year’s Humanitarian Award honorees,

Kirsten Ellenbogen and Vanessa Whiting whose outstanding contributions exemplify the mission of The Diversity Center to create communities where all people are connected, respected, and valued.

Barbara and Alan Rosskamm

CONGRATULATIONS on your

C U YA H O G A CO M M U N ITY CO L L EGE (T RI-C ® )

SALUTES The Diversity Center

71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration, honoring Kirsten M. Ellenbogen, president and CEO of the Great Lakes Science Center, Vanessa L. Whiting, president of A.E.S. Management Corporation, and Cuyahoga Community College Foundation board member. We applaud your efforts to help create a more compassionate and just society.

of Northeast Ohio

tri-c.edu

216-987-6000

25-0851

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 25

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

Saturday, May 9, 2026

Stay tuned—full details are coming soon!

We’re excited to announce that our annual Walk, Rock, Roll & Run is coming back—this time with a fresh twist! Saturday, May 9th we’ll gather for a Community Festival and Walk that brings together families, friends, and neighbors to celebrate diversity, unity, and fun. While we won’t be hosting the run this year, the day will be filled with activities, entertainment, and opportunities to connect.

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The Walk is back!!!

The Walk is back!!!

SAVE THE DATE – SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2026

71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

The Board of Directors of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio proudly congratulates this year’s honorees, Kirsten M. Ellenbogen and Vanessa L. Whiting Your vision, leadership, and impact are shaping a more inclusive and equitable Northeast Ohio.

PROUD SUPPORTER OF

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s 71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration nordson.com

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 27

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio Congratulations to 2025 Humanitarian Award Honorees

Kirsten M. Ellenbogen and

Vanessa L. Whiting Milton & Tamar Maltz

Insuring Healthier Communities

Wherever you are in your higher education journey, College Now can help.

Learn more at collegenowgc.org.

Congratulations, Kirsten & Vanessa — from your friends at College Now

Congratulations to this year’s 2025 Honorees



Vanessa L. Whiting &Kirsten M. Ellenbogen

 From the firm of CALVIN SINGLETON & ASSOCIATES Architects * Planners

13426 Cedar Road | Cleveland Hts., OH 44118 | (216) 321-9953

28 | www.diversitycenterneo.org

71st Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration

A better and brighter future starts with all of us.

Congratulations to Kirsten M. Ellenbogen and Vanessa L. Whiting on receiving the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s Annual Humanitarian Award.

Benesch is proud to recognize these honorees as well as to support the Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio and its important mission.

www.beneschlaw.com Diversity is critically important to Benesch and its culture. Hiring and retaining a diverse work force promotes and demonstrates our commitment to our firm’s core value of being a valued and model member of the community. Creating a workplace where all individuals—regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation—can develop professionally in a supportive, growth-oriented environment, is paramount to our success and something we focus on every day.

The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio | 29