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AUG U S T 2 02 6

THE LEADERS AND INNOVATORS DRIVING NORTHEAST OHIO’S NEXT CHAPTER

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL WHO WERE SELECTED FOR

THE 2026 CLEVELAND 500 INCLUDING OUR VERY OWN:

Dee Haslam & Jimmy Haslam

CEO and Chairman, Managing Partners

Whitney Haslam Johnson Managing Partner

JW Johnson

Managing Partner

CONTENTS

AUGUST 2026

6 CLEVELAND 500

BY JEN BOWEN SIMA, ANN-MARIE VAZZANO AND DILLON STEWART Cleveland knows how to gets things done — and it all starts with the people at the top. Meet the 500 locals whose leadership, expertise and influence shape Northeast Ohio’s future.

COVER PHOTO BY WIL LINDSEY

DEPARTMENTS 2 From the Editor

COMMUNITY

4 Healthcare, Activism and Growth Impactful institutions share how they drive our region to build better.

CLEVELAND 500 CMA : GABE WASYLKO / RACE: COURTESY LIFEBANC / SKYLINE: GABE LEIDY / METROHEALTH: DANIEL LOZADA

11 Accounting & Consulting 17 Arts & Museums 23 Banking & Finance

29 Business 37 Community Leaders 43 Education 49 Entertainment, Hospitality & Leisure 57 Government 61 Healthcare 67 Insurance 70 Law 74 Manufacturing & Logistics 78 Real Estate, Housing, Architects, Building & Construction

85 Technology

23 61 Copyright 2026 by Great Lakes Studios. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without permission of Great Lakes Studios. All rights reserved. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions. All information is subject to change. clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 1

FROM THE EDITOR // BY DILLON S TE WART

Our Collaborative Era

Publisher Denise Polverine Executive Editor Dillon Stewart Managing Editor Jennifer Bowen Sima Senior Editor Ann-Marie Vazzano Contributing Editor Ron Ledgard Art Directors Jenny Perdue Megan Rosta-Walcutt Erin Stinard Contributing Writers Terry Troy Contributing Artists Erik Drost Alex Farmer Russ Lang Wil Lindsey Daniel Lozada Gabe Leidy Bob Perkoski Matt Sexton Thom Sheridan Gabe Wasylko Senior Account Sarah Desmond Executives Tiffany Myroniak Account Executives Julie Bialowas Brittany Valentine

leveland could be on the cusp of its most collaborative period since the early 1900s. The Cleveland Group Plan of 1903 helped create the civic heart of today’s Downtown Cleveland by concentrating buildings around the Mall. In 1914, the Cleveland Foundation became the nation’s first community foundation, funneling money into cultural and civic causes. Funding from the likes of the Rockefellers, the Mathers, the Hannas and, later, the Gunds pushed forward still-beloved institutions like the Cleveland Orchestra, the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Metroparks. That era — as well as the effort to revitalize Downtown in the ’90s — proved the power of cohesion. Today, however, the level of interconnectedness is striking. Momentum stretches from the lakefront to the riverfront, with the Cavs’ Cleveland Clinic Global Peak Performance Center and Irishtown Bend Park. Sherwin-Williams’ new headquarters is bringing workers back Downtown. The Metroparks are expanding. The West Side Market is under renovation. Even The Great Stadium Debate of 2025 is kumbaya compared to last year. Challenges persist, of course. But right now, the region’s largest civic institutions, philanthropic foundations, world-class hospitals, talent-incubating universities and Fortune 500 companies are pursuing complimentary agendas that leverage our natural resources, infrastructure and economic growth. You’re holding in your hand more evidence of brightness on the horizon. The 2026 Cleveland 500 (pg. 6), our annual list of Northeast Ohio’s most impactful leaders, isn’t just a who-to-know list. It’s a guide to our city’s future. Relationships define modern business, and those enterprises shape modern cities. Cleveland is once again proving it has the building blocks for growth — if it all comes together.

Operations Manager Corey Galloway Traffic Coordinator Paige Schuller Events Manager Jennifer Roberts Chief Financial Officer George Sedlak

Cleveland Magazine | Cleveland Scene | Ohio Magazine Lake Erie Living | Cleveland Studios

1422 Euclid Ave., Suite 730, Cleveland, OH 44115 (216) 771-2833 | fax (216) 781-6318 | www.glpublishing.com ERIK DROST

2 Cleveland 500 | 2026

–– congratulations Congratulations to all the Cleveland 500 honorees, including KeyBank’s own Chairman and CEO, Chris Gorman, and the Head of Institutional Banking, Randy Paine.

Chris Gorman | Chairman and CEO

Randy Paine | Head of Institutional Banking

On behalf of the entire team at KeyBank, we are grateful for your leadership, passion, and enduring commitment to excellence. You inspire us to bring – and give – our best every day. KeyBank is proud to be Cleveland’s hometown bank and to continue building a strong, enduring legacy of commitment and service in the community. Together with our leaders, we are united in our purpose: to help our clients, colleagues, and community thrive.

Key is from Cleveland and for Cleveland.

COMMUNITY A RUN GIFTING LIFE

Lifebanc honors donors, families and recipients. By Terry Troy

4 Cleveland 500 | 2026

“In terms of fundraising, this is our premier event,” says Joshua Myers, CFO of Lifebanc. “All of the funds raised JOSHUA MYERS go toward our operations, as well as supporting our work in terms of public education and bereavement counseling. “We pride ourselves on the work we do in terms of bereavement. We wouldn’t be able to give the gift of life without those who give. This is a very important part of honoring those families and helping them get through the process.” The event is expected to draw some 1,500 people, but it has been growing every year. While runners can look forward to a competitive 5K, those who are not competing or walking will find a meaningful, community centered event with plenty of family-friendly activities. The walk is also open to strollers and family groups. You’ll find donor families honoring the legacy of loved ones passed as well as transplant recipients celebrating their second chance. There also will be numerous community teams and corporate groups rallying together to support Lifebanc’s cause. While fundraising is encouraged, it’s not required. Many participants

COURTESY LIFEBANC

f you have ever considered organ donation, wanted to explore the process or assess its impact on humanity and our community, you’ll have a chance a little later this month. On Sunday, Aug. 23 at Blossom Music Center, Lifebanc will host its Gift of Life Walk & Run, a powerful community event that celebrates organ, eye and tissue donors, while honoring their families and loved ones. It also recognizes transplant recipients and is a beacon of hope for those still awaiting a hero who can provide a “gift of life.” It’s also a 5K Race or mile walk, so it’s a great opportunity to get out in the summer air while supporting a very worthwhile cause. But you don’t necessarily have to walk or run to enjoy yourself. The event, which has been held for more than 30 years, kicks off at 9 a.m. There are pre-race activities, so plan on getting there a little earlier. This year, the Gift of Life Run & Walk is partnering with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Mascot Moondog will be at the event, along with the Scream Team. In-arena announcer Ahmaad Crump is also co-hosting the event with 92.3 The Fan’s Andy Baskin. Both have a connection to donation.

choose to raise funds to honor a donor or recipient, but all are welcome to register and attend. “We also have activities for kids preand post-race,” adds Myers. “If you don’t want to walk or run, there will be food trucks, ice cream and music. And the Blossom location is centrally located. It’s also a nice place to visit on a summer Sunday morning. “My favorite part of this event is the Legacy Garden,” he adds. “This is where we honor donors, their families and loved ones as well as recipients.” At the Legacy Garden you can stroll past memorials honoring those who have passed but created a second chance at life. “In addition to raising funds, this event creates a community, a spirit of fellowship,” adds Myers. “It also educates people on the continuing need and importance of organ donation.” It’s an event where you can experience the story of organ donation from both sides. You can talk with families and loved ones who can share the donation process and what they went through. You can talk to the recipients who can offer testimony about how they were able to get a second chance at life and are able to participate in the event. If you’re interested, head to lifebanc. org for details on attendance and registration. But, you don’t need to participate to donate. On the Gift of Life Walk & Run signup page, you’ll find a big button where you can simply support the event.

PHILANTHROPY FOR PRIMATES

Donors large and small are rebuilding our zoo. By Terry Troy

COURTESY CLEVEL AND ZOOLOGICAL SOCIET Y

hanks to one of the largest fundraising efforts in its history, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has embarked on a multi-phase project will expand and enhance guest experiences and animal well-being. Construction is nearly complete on the initial sequence of the transformative $120 million project, which incorporates state-of-the-art technology and research on animal care and conservation. The Primate Forest will include three distinct animal habitats: Tropical Forest, Orangutan Forest and Gorilla Forest. “The project will be completed in phases, with the first opening a little later this summer,” says Andrea Ponikvar, vice president of philanthropy for the Cleveland Zoological Society, which is the nonprofit fundraising partner of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. “In addition to the habitats, the project also includes a lot of new human spaces and experiences, as well.” Major philanthropic investments have made the transformation of the former RainForest into the new Primate Forest possible. Primate Forest will be centered around the two-story CrossCountry Mortgage Forest Home, a new entranceway that will immerse guests in the wonders of the natural world through interactive technology and displays, multi-level play structures and more. The state-of-the-art facility includes a new, expanded Orangutan Forest habitat, featuring the first outdoor yard for the species, and a future phase will include construction of the Gorilla Forest, which will be a new home for the zoo’s growing gorilla troop.

“The CrossCountry Mortgage Forest Home is a great example of how a major hometown company was aligned in the zoo’s mission and saw the value of an investment in the zoo and the impact their generous gift would have,” says Ponikvar. “When it comes to philanthropic investment, Cleveland is an incredible place. I am proud to be from this area, which has so many major cultural institutions that are supported and thriving thanks to major philanthropic donations.” PNC ADVENTURE PLAYSPACE

In addition, a $750,000 grant from the PNC Foundation will bring to life the zoo’s first-ever indoor play area called the PNC Adventure Playspace. It will feature a naturalistic design that draws inspiration from the new facility’s focus on forests and integrates accessible components that welcome children to engage in a range of sensory, tactile and imaginative play. The space will overlook the outdoor orangutan habitat, so as children play, they can see the great apes moving and exercising, too. PNC has supported the zoo for more than 30 years, including funding for educational programs and sponsoring the zoo’s popular membership program since 2018, which provides members with exclusive perks and benefits.

“Our guests and visitors often don’t realize that when they purchase a membership or round up a purchase at the gift shop, they are making a philanthropic gift.” — ANDREA PONIKVAR, VICE PRESIDENT OF PHILANTHROPY

COMMUNITY “We are so very grateful for PNC’s legacy of support for the programs, people and projects at Cleveland SARAH CRUPI Metroparks Zoo,” says Sarah Crupi, CEO of the Cleveland Zoological Society. “PNC Adventure Playspace is a continuation of the company’s meaningful philanthropic support.” DR. VASU & LISA PANDRANGI AND FAMILY FOREST THEATER

Another major addition to the project is made possible by a $1 million gift from Dr. Vasu and Lisa Pandrangi. The Dr. Vasu & Lisa Pandrangi and Family Forest Theater is an immersive, nature-focused theater. Philanthropic dollars also support science education initiatives that connect people with wildlife and empower conservation action. Through experiences and programs that foster curiosity and scientific literacy, the zoo is helping Northeast Ohioans build leadership skills, explore potential career paths and envision themselves as part of a sustainable future. While major donations have made a project like Primate Forest possible, it’s not just major investors who have contributed to the Cleveland Zoological Society’s philanthropic efforts, Ponikvar says. It was necessary to have “all hands on deck,” she says. “Our guests and visitors often don’t realize that when they purchase a membership or round up a purchase at the gift shop, they are making a philanthropic gift,” says Ponikvar. “We are very fortunate to have one of the largest membership bases in Northeast Ohio. “Projects like Primate Forest are made possible through a combination of transformational leadership gifts and thousands of individual contributions from people who care deeply about the zoo,” adds Ponikvar. “It’s a powerful example of what a community can accomplish when people come together around a shared vision.” clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 5

CLEVELAND

500 Meet the leaders of today, shaping the Cleveland of tomorrow.

WIL LINDSEY

6 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Leadership has always been challenging, says Becky McMahon, president and CEO of the Cleveland Leadership Center. But economic instability, shifting technology and career uncertainty have today’s leaders navigating rockier terrain. A new path is emerging, however, based in a philosophy of understanding. “In the old style of leadership, the leader was the operator who had all the answers,” she says. “Today, leadership isn’t about having all of the answers. It’s about being confident in your ability to navigate everchanging circumstances, confident in your emotional intelligence, in understanding how to manage individuals’ well-beings when workloads and demands are everincreasing.” Over 40 years, CLC has focused on building tangible leadership skills, creating a deeper understanding of Northeast Ohio’s business landscape, and encouraging participants to confront civic conversations that go beyond boosterism. “We have so many assets within our region,” McMahon says. “But oftentimes people are just not aware of what the incredible depth of our assets are.” Some of those assets include talent that doesn’t sit at the top of the org chart, which is why Cleveland Leadership Center offers several programs designed for everyone from high schoolers to late-career executives. “From my perspective, you could have a Cleveland 500,000 list,” says McMahon. “Leadership happens in 16-year-olds and in 80-year-olds. It is about looking at the role that you play in life and leaning into your faith in yourself to step forward and play a role in making wherever you are better, stronger and more inclusive.”

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 7

Cleveland 500 Index Accounting & Consulting John Barnes..............................12 Kuno S. Bell...............................12 Chris Bellamy............................12 James P. Carulas.......................13 Fiona Chambers........................13 Richard C. Fedorovich...............13

James “Jim” Porter...................22

Jeneen Springer Marziani.........26

Ron Leonhardt...........................36

Geralyn Presti............................22

Cindy L. Steeb...........................26

Scot Lowry.................................36

Meenakshi Sharma....................21

Marc Stefanski..........................27

Jay Lucarelli..............................36

Tony Sias...................................22

Jay Turakhia..............................27

Tricia Lucas...............................32

Catherine Timko........................21

Tom Zucker...............................26

Octavio Marquez.......................32

Carl Topilow...............................22 Matthew Weinkam.....................22 Stephanie White........................22 Johnny K. Wu............................22

Kevin Martin..............................36

Business

John McMicken Jr.....................36 Scott Mueller.............................36

Kevin S. Adelstein......................30

Nick Osiecki...............................36

Jeff Ahola..................................30

Gary Panteck.............................36

Joe Arcuri..................................35

Joshua Peirez............................36

Jim Bass....................................35

Paul Perozeni............................36

Michael E. Brosky......................24

Kimberly Beckett.......................35

Rick Buoncore...........................27

Noel Blaha.................................35

Sam Pines.................................33

Carrie Carpenter........................24

Don Boodjeh..............................35

William Cosgrove......................27

Bethia Burke..............................35

Ralph Della Ratta.......................27

Michelle L. Burke.......................30

Fred DiSanto..............................24

Micki Byrnes..............................30

Michael Drennan.......................27

Emily Campbell..........................30

William Elliott Jr.........................27

Scott Chapin..............................30

Heather Ettinger........................27

Joe Cimperman.........................35

Todd Federman.........................24

Amanda Cole.............................31

Cindy Flynn................................24

Chris Conroy..............................35

Matt Gausman...........................27

Tony Di Fiore..............................35

James R. Geuther......................24

Taylor Evans..............................36

Brian Gevry................................27

Rob Falls....................................36

Wesley Gillespie........................27

Jose C. Feliciano Sr...................31

David Goldberg..........................27

Ken Ganley................................36

Chris Gorman............................25

Daniel Hampu............................31

Beth Hammack..........................25

Lute Harmon Jr..........................31

Bill Garvey.................................19

Michael Jeans...........................25

Phyllis Harris.............................31

André Gremillet.........................22

Stewart Kohl..............................27

Rusty Harris...............................36

William Griswold........................22

Kara Lewis.................................27

Corey Head................................31

Greg Harris................................19

Frank Linsalata..........................27

Cindy Holzheimer......................32

Tameka Taylor...........................36

Craig Hassall.............................19

Kevin Myeroff............................27

Keith Hotchkiss.........................32

Kevin Thomas............................36

Jeremy Johnson........................22

Matt Nipper...............................25

Joey Huang...............................32

Brian Tierney.............................36

Megan Lykins Reich...................19

Michael Obi...............................25

Ansir Junaid..............................36

Jackie Wachter..........................35

Hermione Malone......................19

Andrew “Randy” Paine III...........25

Michael Kahoe...........................36

Kristin Warzocha.......................35

Nathan Motta............................19

Patrick M. Pastore.....................26

Matt Kaulig................................36

Tony Weber................................35

Ed Moydell.................................20

Boyd Pethel...............................27

Kelly Keefe.................................32

Steve Weinstein.........................36

Effie Nunes................................20

Timothy Phillips.........................27

Fred Koury.................................36

Brad Whitehead.........................35

Jill Marie Paulsen......................20

Tom Pitera.................................27

Joe Kubic...................................36

Chas Withers.............................36

Aaron Petersal...........................21

Robert C. Smith.........................26

Michael Kubinski.......................36

Paul Gregory..............................16 Jerry Grisko...............................14 Sean Kilbane..............................16 Brian Marita...............................14 Brandon Miller...........................14 James Mylen.............................16 Rosemary Rehner......................16 Jim Rollins.................................15 Jonathon Ruple.........................15 Brian Seidner.............................15 Gregory J. Skoda.......................16 Aaron Swartz.............................16 Adam Zelwin..............................16

Arts & Museums Raymond Bobgan......................18 Rhonda Brown...........................22 Kirsten Ellenbogen....................18 Kelly Falcone.............................18 Edward P. Gallagher...................18

8 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Banking & Finance

Denise Polverine........................33 Michelle Primm.........................36 Chris Quinn................................36 Matt Radicelli............................33 Terry Rafih.................................36 Radhika Reddy...........................36 Kenn Ricci..................................33 Paul Roetzer..............................34 Mike Rossi.................................34 Anthony Salgado.......................36 Nico Samaniego........................34 Jeff Schell.................................36 Michael Silvestro.......................34 Renee Singleton........................36 Mark Smucker...........................36 Alan Spitzer...............................34 Bryan Stubbs.............................34 J.K. Symancyk...........................36 Rachel Talton.............................35

Index

Community Leaders Monte Ahuja..............................42 Kate Borders..............................38 A. Ray Dalton.............................38 Michael Deemer........................38 Matt Dolan.................................42

Jamar O. Rahming.....................47

Chris Hodgson...........................56

David Joyce...............................60

Paul Rose..................................47

Daniel Holan..............................56

Shammas Malik.........................60

Michele Scott Taylor..................47

Will Hollingsworth.....................56

Rick Manoloff............................59

Steve Stevenson........................48

Linda D. Johanek.......................53

Dale Miller.................................60

Felton Thomas Jr.......................48

JW Johnson..............................56

Bernie Moreno...........................60

Carmen Twillie Ambar...............48

Douglas Katz.............................53

Michael O’Malley.......................60

Tom Leneghan...........................56

Jeffery K. Patterson..................59

Sam McNulty.............................53

Jeffrey Riddell...........................60

Gregg Mervis.............................56

Chris Ronayne...........................59

Joseph Miceli............................56

Ilene Shapiro.............................60

Mike Mitchell.............................56

Lisa Stickan...............................60

Rosemary Mudry.......................53

Colleen M. Swedyk....................60

Kaitie Nickel..............................56

Jim Tressel................................60

John F. Garofalo........................38 Lute Harmon Sr..........................42 Ramona Hood............................42

Entertainment, Hospitality & Leisure

Lillian Kuri..................................42

Bret Adams................................56

Edward Malesic.........................42

Koby Altman..............................50

Randell McShepard...................42

Warren Anderson.......................50

Marsha Mockabee.....................42

Chris Antonetti..........................56

Dan Moulthrop...........................38

Nic Barlage................................50

Lorne Novick.............................38

Chad Barnhill.............................56

Stephen O’Bryan........................39

Jason Beudert...........................56

Richard Pogue...........................39

John Bibbo................................50

Anthony Richardson..................42

John Bonner..............................56

Erika Rudin-Luria.......................39

Kevin Brady................................50

Zulayka Ruiz-Barral...................40

Mike Campo..............................56

Jane and Lee Seidman..............42

Brandon Chrostowski................56

Baiju Shah.................................40

Matthew Cole............................50

Sharon Sobol Jordon.................41

Mike Conway.............................51

Frank C. Sullivan........................42

Dan Conway...............................56

Mark Swaim-Fox........................42

Patrick Conway.........................56

Jeremy T. Wood.........................42

Paul Corto..................................51

Stephen Hoffman......................42

Sam Covelli................................56

Education

Sarah Crupi................................51

Lisa Petit...................................56 John Reilly.................................56 Daniel Saltzman........................56

Healthcare

Bob Sarver.................................56

Christine Alexander-Rager........62

Michael Schwartz......................54

Mitchell Balk..............................66

Kathy Shimer.............................56

Maria Bennett............................66

Stephanie Siegel........................54

Richard Boyson Jr.....................62

Tom Sirna..................................56

Daniel Carestio..........................66

Neil Stein...................................54

Jill Dietrich Mellon.....................66

Jon A. Steinbrecher...................54

William Finn...............................63

Jim Stouffer Jr...........................56

Joshua Frederick.......................66

Ted Swaldo................................54

Jorge Garcia-Zuazaga...............63

Sean Watterson.........................54

Christopher A. Gessner.............66

Andrew Watts............................55

William Koeblitz.........................66

Rocco Whalen............................55

Mark Kohoot..............................64

Brian M. Zimmerman.................55

Shannon Kuhn...........................64 John Luellen..............................66

Bob DiBiasio..............................56

Cliff Megerian............................66

Sunil Ahuja................................44

Paul Dolan.................................56

Marcia Ballinger........................44

Linda Ekey.................................52

Government

Michael A. Baston.....................44

Mary Jo Ferrante.......................56

Morris Beverage III....................60

Matthew Monoghan..................66

Laura J. Bloomberg...................44

Eric Flatt....................................56

Justin Bibb................................60

Michael Petras Jr.......................66

Todd A. Diacon..........................44

Helen Forbes Fields...................52

India L. Birdsong Terry..............58

Lee Fisher..................................44

Barry Gabel................................56

Joevrose Bourdeau Small.........60

Kathryn Heidemann...................45

Dan Gilbert.................................56

David Brock...............................58

Paul W. Hogle............................45

David Gilbert..............................52

Shontel Brown...........................60

Eric Kaler...................................45

Megan Gillum............................52

Renato Camacho.......................58

John Langell..............................48

Marc Glassman.........................56

Russell E. Dash..........................60

Warren Morgan..........................46

Keisha Gonzalez........................52

Mike DeWine.............................60

Robert Nemer............................48

Larry Goodman..........................52

Kyle Dreyfuss-Wells...................58

Insurance

Carolyn Noll Sorg.......................46

Dee Haslam...............................56

Jeff Epstein...............................58

Andrew “Bubba” Berenzweig.....69

Shari Obrenski...........................48

Jim Haslam...............................56

Bryant L. Francis........................58

Greg A. Brunn............................69

Megan O’Bryan..........................46

Whitney Haslam Johnson.........56

Blaine Griffin..............................60

Jim Dustin.................................69

Mary B. Outley...........................48

Jeff Heinen................................53

Jon Husted................................60

Umberto Fedeli..........................69

Emma Parker.............................48

Thomas J. Heinen.....................53

Jason M. Joyce.........................59

Tricia Griffith..............................69

Tomislav “Tom” Mihaljevic........64

Robyn Strosaker........................66 Daryl Tol.....................................66 Kendra Urdzik............................65 Robert “Bob” Varley...................65 William A. Young Jr...................65

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 9

Tony Helton...............................69

Juan Chahda.............................77

Victor DiGeronimo Jr..................79

Russell Rogers..........................84

Michelle Hirsch.........................68

Megan Fellinger.........................77

Mike Dilley.................................83

James Ruhlin Jr.........................84

David Kempton..........................69

Timothy K. Flanagan.................75

Scott M. Dimit............................79

Neil Sackett...............................84

Robert Klonk..............................69

Wayne Foley..............................77

Brad Disandis............................79

Mitchell Schneider.....................84

Allison Lanzilotta.......................69

Lourenco Goncalves..................77

Debbie Donley...........................79

John P. Snavely Sr.....................84

Ed Largent.................................69

Steven Hedlund.........................77

Michael Doris............................80

Paul Spenthoff...........................82

Howard L. Lewis........................69

Ethan Karp.................................77

James Drexinger.......................83

Ezra Stark..................................82

Edward Xavier McNamara.........68

Ashish Khandpur.......................77

Jim Eppele.................................83

Bryce Sylvester..........................84

Jane Peterson...........................69

Steve Laserson..........................77

Karen M. Fanger........................83

Don Taylor.................................84

Amanda Yoho............................69

Todd Leebow.............................77

John Ferchill..............................83

Gareth Vaughan.........................84

Rebecca Liebert........................77

Melissa Ferchill Swingos...........83

Paul Voinovich...........................83

Mike Lisman..............................77

Adam Fishman..........................80

Thomas Lozick..........................77

Greg Geis...................................83

Robert McBride.........................77

J. David Heller...........................83

Matt Mcdermott........................77

Doug Hensel..............................83

Darrell McNair...........................77

Daniel Hurst...............................80

Sundaram Nagarajan.................77

Patrick Hurst.............................80

Jennifer A. Parmentier..............77

Matt Janiak...............................83

Heidi G. Petz..............................77

Jason Jones..............................83

Josh Reiner...............................77

Chris Kamis...............................80

Technology

Neal Restivo..............................75

Mike Kamis................................83

Chris Adams..............................88

Rustom Khouri III.......................80

Shane M. Bigelow......................86

Tim King....................................83

Patrick Brown............................88

Ariane Kirkpatrick......................81

Arnon Chait...............................88

Bo Knez.....................................83

Hiroyuki Fujita...........................86

Law Nailah K. Byrd............................71 Michele Connell.........................71 Colleen Cotter............................71 Gregg Eisenberg........................71 Ian Friedman.............................73 Terry Gilbert...............................73 Ira Kaplan..................................71 Christopher G. Keim..................71 Harold Maxfield.........................72

Allison Roberts Grealis..............75

Teresa Metcalf Beasley.............72

Paulo Ruiz.................................75

Lawrence Oscar.........................73

Doug Schattinger.......................77

Thomas Ostrowski....................72

Jack Schron Jr...........................76

Jon Pinney.................................73

Michael D. Siegal.......................76

Shawn M. Riley..........................72

Deon Stander.............................77

Becky Ruppert McMahon..........72

Michael Stanek..........................77

John Saada Jr............................73

Mark Stewart.............................77

Chris Schmitt.............................72

Frank Sullivan............................77

Patty Shlonsky...........................73

Roger J. Sustar..........................76

Darrin Kotecki............................83 Doug Lancashire........................81 Ronald Ledin..............................83 Sandra Madison........................83 Ari Maron...................................83 Adelbert “Chip” Marous.............81

Douglas E. Spiker......................73

Garry Marsoubian......................83

Dwayne Steward........................73

Mark Mead................................83

Matthew Tenerowicz.................73 Adrian D. Thompson..................73 Sonya Virant..............................73 Dustin Vrabel.............................73

Real Estate, Housing, Architects, Building & Construction

Tania Menesse..........................83 Kyle Merrill................................83 Gary Naim..................................83

Richard Bancroft........................83

Travis Nelson.............................83

Jack Alan Bialosky Jr................79

Kevin J. Nowak..........................81

Sherri Brandon...........................83

James Orr..................................83

John Carney..............................83

Rick Osborne Jr.........................83

Andrew “Bubba” Coleman.........83

Ted Otero...................................81

Jenice Contreras.......................83

Dominic Ozanne........................83

Peter Corogin............................83

Richard Pace.............................81

Pat Covey..................................79

Tony Panzica.............................83

Bruno Biasiotta..........................75

Terry Coyne...............................83

Mike Payne................................82

Allison Boersma........................75

William Cromling III...................83

Gayle Pinchot............................83

Lucian Boldea............................77

George Davis III.........................83

Douglas E. Price III....................84

Thomas Welsh...........................73 Tony White.................................73 Margaret Wong..........................73

Manufacturing & Logistics

10 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Daniel Walsh..............................84 Mark Wells.................................84 Chris West.................................83 Dan Whalen...............................83 Matt Wilson...............................84 Matthew Wymer........................84

Jitesh Ghai................................88 Patrick Ghilani...........................86 Kevin Johnson...........................88 Felicia Johnson.........................86 John Leskiw..............................88 Charlie Lougheed......................86 Mel McGee................................86 Michael Ode..............................88 Dan Popkin................................88 Steve Potash.............................88 James Rhyu...............................88 Dawn Schaible...........................87 Neil Schrimsher.........................88 John Stubbs..............................88 Jason Therrien..........................88 Gabriel Torok.............................88 Brittany Trafis............................88 Mike Trebilcock.........................88 Adam Tubbs..............................88 Mark Woodka............................88

Accounting & Consulting

ALEX FARMER

Accounting & Consulting clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 11

John Barnes

Kuno S. Bell

Chris Bellamy

Market Managing Partner

Managing Partner

CEO

Grant Thornton

Education: MBA, University of Maryland; bachelor’s degree in accounting and international business, Pennsylvania State University How I Approach My Day: Every day something happens that you haven’t seen before — gratitude and appreciation for the day.

Pease Bell

Education: Juris doctor, Case Western Reserve School of Law; BBA in accounting, Cleveland State University What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who does what is good for the team even if it goes against their own personal interests

What Success Looks Like to Me: When the team is successful in their achievements individually and collectively, then I am successful.

What Motivates Me Right Now: Working toward creating a firm where people work less and get paid more — a firm where everyone has dinner with their family 365 days a year

What I Look for in a Leader: Why are you a leader? Who are you in the leadership role for — yourself or others?

My Leadership Style: Surround myself with smart, motivated people and count on them to make good decisions

Favorite Quote: “No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.”

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I like Taylor Swift as much as I like Nine Inch Nails.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I probably tend to be more introverted than some would think.

An Important Lesson I Learned: I cannot know everything, and I have to count on and trust my team to deal with the things they know better than me.

An Important Lesson I Learned: This, too, shall pass.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Sitting in my backyard with my wife, looking at her flowers

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: At home with the dog and our koi fish. Who would have ever thought that fish could be so much fun to watch?

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Bur Oak on the Black River

Cohen & Co Advisory LLC Education: BBA in accounting, Ohio University Favorite Quote: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” — Wayne Gretzky What Motivates Me Right Now: Bringing in new hires and watching them succeed is really satisfying for me. I am motivated every day by seeing members of our team try things they didn’t think they could do, grow from the experience, then excel. One of the most satisfying and motivational moments for me is when I see someone we hired as an intern become a partner in the firm. My Leadership Style: My leadership style revolves around building trust. Everything stems from that. Trust creates and nurtures a culture of openness and honesty. It allows for inclusion and making everyone feel heard and seen. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: When I can find the time, I’ll be on the golf course. While it’s a challenging sport, there is something about it and the perspective it gives me. It’s about accepting the good with the bad and learning how to laugh through it.

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I would love to create a reality show involving a CPA firm.

Teamwork thrives under great leadership. Congratulations to our Managing Shareholder Jon Ruple on being named to the Cleveland 500!

maloneynovotny.com

What I Look for in a Leader: Listening skills Favorite Quote: “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” What Motivates Me Right Now: The best interests of my employees, clients and partners An Important Lesson I Learned: Never stop asking questions and never stop learning.

Executive Chairman

Deloitte LLP

Meaden & Moore

Education: Master’s degree in taxation, University of Akron; bachelor’s degree in accounting, Case Western Reserve University How I Approach My Day: I usually start with prioritizing the biggest business issues of the office and our clients. I separate the urgent tasks from the important longer-term items. I find it meaningful to leave time for change, as business priorities can shift quickly. Favorite Quote: “Kindness is the one gift that costs nothing but means everything. Give it freely, especially when it’s hard.” — Frank Caprio My Leadership Style: I believe in setting clear direction while supporting others to find their true potential while leading by example. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I don’t know how to swim, but I am committed to learning this year. An Important Lesson I Learned: Growth comes from discomfort. The moments that challenged me the most are the ones that taught me about resilience, confidence and how to adapt. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: You will find me with my family. I enjoy watching Cleveland sporting events, playing golf and cards.

Bober Markey Fedorovich Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, University of Akron What I Look for in a Leader: Integrity, honesty, wisdom, empathy, a sense of humor and a strong work ethic Favorite Quote: “If it was easy anyone could do it.” If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Understanding no one gets dealt a perfect hand, I would trade places with the head coach of a Division 1 college football team. My Leadership Style: Lead with integrity and purpose, set a great example, let people know what is expected of them and also let them know that you care about them with no penalty for out-performing. An Important Lesson I Learned: There are no shortcuts to success. Great results are brought about by a well thought-through plan, a sharp focus and strong execution. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Watching football, working on my auto collection or taking one out for a ride, listening to classical music, attending a concert at Severance or watching a good miniseries on Netflix. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Seinfeld

CBIZ proudly celebrates Jerry Grisko, President and CEO, and Greg Skoda, Managing Director, on being named to the Cleveland 500. Congratulations to all the honorees.

Jerry Grisko President and CEO

Greg Skoda Managing Director

This recognition reflects their outstanding leadership, forward-thinking perspective, and consistent dedication to delivering results.

CBIZ is a consulting, tax and financial services provider that works closely with CBIZ CPAs P.C., an independent CPA firm that provides audit, review and other attest services. © Copyright 2026. CBIZ, Inc. NYSE Listed: CBZ. All rights reserved

CBIZ.COM

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 13

Accounting & Consulting

Northeast Ohio Managing Partner

Senior Partner

Education: Miami University

Richard C. Fedorovich

Fiona Chambers

James P. Carulas

Jerry Grisko

Brian Marita

President & CEO

Managing Partner

CBIZ Inc.

Education: Juris doctor, Case Western Reserve University; bachelor’s degree in business administration, Kent State University What Success Looks Like to Me: Professionally, it means exceeding the expectations of our stakeholders (team members, clients, shareholders and others) while building a team that’s growing personally and professionally. Personally, it’s earning the respect and admiration of those closest to me — the people who understand the decisions I make and the values behind them. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for leaders with integrity first — everything else builds from there. Favorite Quote: “To whom much is given, much is expected.” It’s a reminder that leadership isn’t a privilege — it’s a responsibility. What Motivates Me Right Now: Identifying, developing and empowering the next generation of our leaders An Important Lesson I Learned: It’s OK to be wrong, but it’s not OK to stay wrong. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: I’m most often with my family, staying active — typically cycling — or enjoying time at beautiful Chautauqua Lake, and often combining all three whenever possible.

14 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Ciuni & Panichi

Brandon Miller Midwest Regional Managing Partner Citrin Cooperman

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, John Carroll University

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration/accounting, John Carroll University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is continual learning and development. Not every project or initiative will hit it out of the park. However, there will be lessons learned that may create the next big achievement.

How I Approach My Day: Focused on long-term strategies and using each day to build toward the goal of achieving those strategies

What I Look for in a Leader: Ability to build trust within a team and organization and enhance engagement; develop others, allowing them to showcase their strengths; finding passion in others around common goals and empowering them to take action What Motivates Me Right Now: Connecting people to enhance their ability to make a difference within our communities and organizations Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Actively involved with several not-for-profit boards supporting theater, dance, leadership, health and social service organizations; enjoying travel with my wife and daughter to experience many wonderful countries and learn more about their people and cultures. You will also find me in our backyard garden trying to grow and harvest our summer and fall fruits and vegetables. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Playhouse Square

What Success Looks Like to Me: Clients who want to promote your services, and also employees who are energized to make the company successful enjoying what they do What I Look for in a Leader: Empowerment of their people, dedicated vision and not concerned about their personal accomplishments If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: President of the United States — not any one in particular — just the position. I would enjoy seeing what high-level strategy is discussed and what decisions are made that we don’t see. What Motivates Me Right Now: Our vision to grow the company in the Midwest Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with my teenage daughters. They grow up fast! If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Suits

Jonathon Ruple

Brian Seidner

CEO

Managing Shareholder

Managing Director

Meaden & Moore Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration/accounting and human resource management, Ohio University What I Look for in a Leader: Empathy Favorite Quote: I don’t know if it is my favorite, but I consistently think about the following quote by Peter Drucker: “It’s amazing how many of the things we do will never be missed, and nothing is less productive than making more efficient something that should not be done in the first place.” What Motivates Me Right Now: My personal values and our firm core values

Maloney + Novotny LLC

The Siegfried Group

Education: University of Dayton

Education: Muskingum University

What Success Looks Like to Me: I view success as providing opportunity, solutions and direction to my colleagues, clients, friends and family to put them in a position to make the best decision for the circumstance they are in.

Favorite Quote: “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” — Charles Swindoll

What I Look for in a Leader: What I look for in a leader is motivation, thoughtfulness and confidence. They need to understand the situation, listen and process what is happening to make well thought-out conclusions and decisions. Favorite Quote: “What could go wrong?” What Motivates Me Right Now: Providing my children with an example of what hard work, integrity and honesty can allow you to achieve in life An Important Lesson I Learned: In order to achieve success, you need to trust your team members.

What Motivates Me Right Now: Strengthening my faith and living with purpose by making intentional choices each day and prioritizing my health through better nutrition and consistent exercise and being of service to others What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I work out outdoors four to five mornings a week at 5:30 a.m. year-round as part of F3, a men’s leadership group built around fitness, fellowship and faith. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Cheering on my son at the baseball field, supporting my daughter at dance competitions or enjoying a round of golf at Canterbury Golf Club A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Cozumel in Broadview Heights. As Mexican food paired with exceptional service, it’s hard to beat. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Ted Lasso. Ted leads with optimism, humility, empathy and kindness while bringing out the best in those around him. If more people embraced those qualities, I believe the world would be a better place.

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 15

Accounting & Consulting

Jim Rollins

Gregory J. Skoda Managing Director CBIZ

Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, John Carroll University What I Look for in a Leader: People who help make other people better, can motivate an individual or a group to see, reach and go beyond their individual goals and achieve as a group what they could not do alone Favorite Quote: “The only time you run out of chances is when you stop taking them.” — Alexander Pope My Leadership Style: Collaborative and continually working to make the best out of all that is in front of us. This can take many different avenues depending on the unique circumstances of the moments we are in. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I love the Harry Potter books and read a great deal of history. An Important Lesson I Learned: You can accomplish much more than you think you can. Go for it! Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Water skiing on Lake Chautauqua or walking our dog Vali If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Yellowstone

Principal and Practice Leader of Private Client Services Rea Business Advisors

Sean Kilbane

Principal, Cleveland Office BDO USA

James Mylen

Office Managing Partner, Advisory KPMG

Rosemary Rehner

President Barnes Wendling CPAs

Aaron Swartz

Office Managing Partner Ernst & Young

Adam Zelwin

Cleveland Office Managing Partner PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

RUSS L ANG

16 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Paul Gregory

MAT T SEXTON

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 17

Arts & Museums

Raymond Bobgan Executive Artistic Director, CEO

Cleveland Public Theatre

Kirsten Ellenbogen President & CEO

Great Lakes Science Center

Education: UC-Irvine; University of Akron; Santa Barbara Community College

Education: Doctoral degree, Vanderbilt University; bachelor’s degree, University of Chicago

How I Approach My Day: As a leader, seek listening and align my intent to support Cleveland and the artist communities of Cleveland. I approach my artistic day with embodied creativity — seeing, imagining, listening and responding.

How I Approach My Day: Using the lens of our strategic business plan to filter all I see

What Success Looks Like to Me: Amazing art making a real impact on people and on our democracy Favorite Quote: “Give the world the best you have and you’ll get kicked in the teeth. Give the world the best you have anyway.” — Paradoxical Commandments, Kent M. Keith If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Great artists in a more popular media: Brit Marling? Beyonce? Edson Oda? What Motivates Me Right Now: The amazing artists of CPT, especially Cleveland CORE Ensemble, Teatro Publico de Cleveland and Masrah Cleveland Al Arabi, and the staff of CPT

What Success Looks Like to Me: Every member of the team contributing and growing What I Look for in a Leader: They measure growth by the success and development of the people they lead. Favorite Quote: “Our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education.” — President John F. Kennedy What Motivates Me Right Now: We are looking ahead to some once-in-a-lifetime opportunities here on the lakefront. My Leadership Style: Connecting the team to a purpose that is larger than any one of us What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I play double bass and banjo.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Culture is the hardest and most important thing to success — individually, organizationally and as a society.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Hiking — we are so lucky to have so much green space in this region, with a terrific variety of trails.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Karamu House

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Superior Pho

Kelly Falcone President & CEO Western Reserve Historical Society

Education: Master’s degree in American history; bachelor’s degree in political science, Cleveland State University What Success Looks Like to Me: Family health, strength and happiness What I Look for in a Leader: I want team players with the perfect mix of confidence, tenacity and humility. Favorite Quote: “If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.” — Mark Twain If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: People on holiday in Italy My Leadership Style: Collaborative, transparent, goaloriented and decisive What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m an introvert, happier with my head in a book than speaking from a podium. An Important Lesson I Learned: Being right doesn’t necessarily make it better when relationships matter more than who’s right and who’s wrong. Preserving trust and respect are more important than proving you’re correct. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Cleveland History Center in University Circle

Edward P. Gallagher President & CEO

Beck Center for the Arts Education: Leadership Cleveland Class of 2026; post-graduate certificate in nonprofit management; bachelor’s degree in music therapy

My Leadership Style: I am a servant leader because, as Robert Greenleaf wrote, a servant leader listens, supports and empowers while focusing on the growth of the team, organization and community. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have been inducted into the Ohio State Fair Hall of Fame. An Important Lesson I Learned: I have learned that knowing when to lead, follow, take directions or serve is extremely important. Whether it is shoveling snow, passing out programs, helping with clean-up or making key decisions, I must be willing to do what is needed to ensure success. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Working with the AllOhio State Fair Band and All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: My family and I enjoy CentroVilla25 on West 25th. 18 Cleveland 500 | 2026

BOBGAN: STEVE WAGNER / GALL AGHER: WETZLER’S PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO / CMA : GABE WASYLKO

What I Look for in a Leader: I look for someone who leads with character, who has a plan, is collaborative, open to input, demonstrates empathy and takes part in meaningful discussions to solve challenges.

Greg Harris

President

President & CEO

Greater Cleveland Film Commission Education: University of Notre Dame How I Approach My Day: I begin my day at my laptop to face the onslaught of emails and balls in the air that an army of dragons would struggle to tame. Then, coffee. Favorite Quote: “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”— Mark Twain If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Director John Ford My Leadership Style: My leadership philosophy is like a duck paddling on a pond: stay calm on the surface, paddle furiously underneath and hope the team thinks this was the plan all along. An Important Lesson I Learned: All the hard work I poured into the beginning of my career didn’t bear fruit until I connected with mentors who showed me the path. Learning from those who did the job at the highest level was the essential ingredient.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum Education: Graduate program, State University of New York: Cooperstown; Temple University What Success Looks Like to Me: Growing our business, a happy and engaged workforce and having a very positive impact on the Northeast Ohio community Favorite Quote: One of my favorite quotes is from RRHOF Inductee Joe Strummer of The Clash: “The way you get a better world is you don’t put up with substandard anything.” What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m motivated to lead the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame into a new era with our massive building expansion so that we can better serve our visitors, staff and the Northeast Ohio community. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I can’t sing on key yet lead a music museum! Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Working on old vehicles — motorcycles, tractors — and attending lots of live music shows A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Any of our great live music venues If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: It would be a blast to co-star on Travel With Rick Steves!

Megan Lykins Reich

Hermione Malone

Kohl Executive Director

Executive Director

Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland (moCa)

Cleveland International Film Festival

Education: Several schools, but mostly, I learn from the brilliant people I am lucky enough to meet, talk, work and grow with.

Education: MBA, Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University; bachelor’s degree, Florida A&M University

How I Approach My Day: Adaptively and, at best, with a creative and appreciative mindset

What Success Looks Like to Me: Making a notable contribution in high-stakes roles without unnecessary friction, without deferring rest, health, friendship and creativity as sacrifices for that success. Sometimes that contribution is building something new, or reimagining something that is more longstanding, or lending expertise to the improvement of something well on its way to creating valued impact.

What I Look for in a Leader: Courage, ingenuity and empathy My Leadership Style: Trusting, collaborative, imaginative, flexible and confident What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I love taking pictures of (and talking to) flowers. Also, I love pelicans. An Important Lesson I Learned: It will all be OK in the end; if it is not OK, it is not the end. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Hopefully with my family and friends, beside some body of water, maybe sipping wine or laughing at jokes A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Henry Church Rock and Quarry Picnic Area at South Chagrin Reservation (Cleveland Metroparks), where you can hike up/down and swim in the Chagrin River If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Anything written by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Donald Glover, Bill Hader, Tina Fey, Jason Bateman or Dan and Eugene Levy

What I Look for in a Leader: I look for someone with vision, who assembles a strong, competent team around them to help bring the vision to life. I’m a fairly direct communicator, so I often look for the same — someone who won’t leave me guessing what they mean. And lastly, I value a leader who can balance work and play — who has a sense of humor and who creates space for their team members to have full lives outside of the job, organization or project at hand. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Third Space Reading Room in Cleveland’s Glenville neighborhood. It is a bookstore, gathering space and community building engine.

Craig Hassall CEO

Playhouse Square Education: The Scots College and University of Sydney How I Approach My Day: Try and knock off the big things early. Procrastination is the enemy of contentment. What I Look for in a Leader: Clarity. Support. Motivation. Ideally, I would follow someone who I could never aspire to emulate but would follow to the ends of the earth to try. Favorite Quote: “You know what happens when you don’t take any risks? Nothing!” What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I can play the bagpipes. I went to a Scottish school in Australia — of course — and it was just the thing to do. An Important Lesson I Learned: Always fess up. You will make mistakes, hopefully not a lot of them, but you will. Fess up as soon as you can and you will be amazed how keen your colleagues are to help fix the problem. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Wade Chapel within Lake View Cemetery If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Sir David Attenborough’s sidekick on one of his incredible nature documentaries

Nathan Motta Artistic Director Dobama Theatre

Education: Master’s degree, Eastman School of Music; bachelor’s degree, Carnegie Mellon University What I Look for in a Leader: Integrity, authenticity, kindness, thoughtfulness, transparency, vision and demonstrating diverse forms of Intelligence Favorite Quote: “Whatever you do won’t be enough. Try anyway.” — Barack Obama What Motivates Me Right Now: The most motivating thing for me is always the next creative project. An Important Lesson I Learned: Get off social media completely. It literally makes your brain work better, reduces stress, improves real-world relationships and gives you more hours in the day. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Traveling — trying to experience as much of the world as possible, hiking, playing with dogs, listening to live music and watching sporting events A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Sitting on uncrowded Edgewater Beach and looking out at the water and the willow tree with a cold drink and a good book can feel like a trip to the Caribbean. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I would love to be a cast member on Saturday Night Live.

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 19

Arts & Museums

Bill Garvey

Ed Moydell

Effie Nunes

Jill Marie Paulsen

President & CEO

Executive Director

Holden Forests & Gardens Education: Master’s degree in public horticulture, fellow in the Longwood Graduate Program, University of Delaware; bachelor’s degree in public horticulture, Oklahoma State University What Success Looks Like to Me: Are we helping people connect with nature? Are we contributing to solutions for environmental challenges? Are we creating experiences that improve lives? And are we enjoying the work along the way? If the answer is yes, that’s success. What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who aspires to the responsibility of leadership, not the power that comes with it Favorite Quote: “Nature can live without man, but man cannot live without nature.” — Prentice Bloedel What Motivates Me Right Now: Being outside. Research continues to confirm what many of us instinctively know: spending time in nature makes us healthier, happier and more connected. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I put myself through college as a Benihana style hibachi chef. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: The 1960s Batman television series or The Price is Right

Cleveland Arts Prize

Education: MBA, Kent State University; bachelor’s degree, Cleveland State University What Succes Looks Like to Me: A thriving Northeast Ohio arts and cultural landscape that continues to expand so artists can live here, support themselves and continue to grow their art form What I Look for in a Leader: Wisdom, empathy and compassion are the most important qualities, in addition to a strong skill set. What Motivates Me Right Now: The belief that the arts are more important than ever. In a world that often feels divided and uncertain, artists help us connect, reflect and imagine new possibilities. At Cleveland Arts Prize, we have the privilege of recognizing exceptional artists, arts advocates and philanthropists whose contributions enrich our community. Celebrating their work reminds us that creativity and culture are essential to a vibrant and thriving future. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I just became a member of the Ohio Advisory Group for the National Museum of Women Artists, which supports and recognizes female artists from our state.

Cuyahoga Arts & Culture Education: Master’s degree in nonprofit management, Case Western Reserve University Weatherhead School of Business; bachelor’s degree in sociology and French, Grinnell College Favorite Quote: “We all do better when we all do better.” — former United States Senator Paul Wellstone (MN) What Motivates Me Right Now: The 300-plus nonprofits that we fund through Cuyahoga Arts & Culture. So many of these creative leaders are running complex businesses in uncertain times. Whether they’re small, volunteer-led groups or neighborhood anchors employing hundreds of people, the best Cleveland arts and culture nonprofits put residents at the center. Their commitment to our community motivates me to run a public agency that is reliable and embraces the full diversity of our arts ecosystem. My Leadership Style: I aim to be a servant leader who works for justice and expects results. Sustained and real change doesn’t happen through one person or one organization. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m a professional women’s soccer superfan! My daughter and I travel across the country to catch matches. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Cleveland Public Library Main branch on Superior Avenue

Congratulations to Chief Executive Officer Brian M. Zimmerman and his fellow Cleveland 500 influencers.

Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center 20 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Executive Director

Meenakshi Sharma

Catherine Timko

Acting President & CEO

Executive Director

Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Maltz Museum

Education: Bachelor’s degree in psychology, The Ohio State University How I Approach My Day: Optimistic curiosity What Success Looks Like to Me: Making a real impact alongside people who care about improving the community. I’ve never believed success happens alone. What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who can inspire confidence, create momentum and help people feel connected to a larger purpose Favorite Quote: “Both optimists and pessimists contribute to society. The optimist invents the airplane, the pessimist the parachute.” — George Bernard Shaw My Leadership Style: I’m collaborative by nature. I like bringing people into the conversation, keeping things moving forward and creating an environment where people feel comfortable contributing ideas. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Usually running, trying a new restaurant or planning my next trip. I also love anything connected to history, storytelling and culture. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: A summer concert at Cain Park Evans Amphitheater If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Survivor — I’m curious to know how I would do.

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center

Education: MBA

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Hiram College

How I Approach My Day: Sometimes I have a clear sense of what I want to move forward and some days are just pure learning opportunity. I work hard and I move fast, but the energy comes from genuine curiosity. I’m always asking: what haven’t we tried yet?

How I Approach My Day: With a positive attitude

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success for me is quieter than people might expect. I’m genuinely content — I’m not running toward some finish line. Being content isn’t the same as being satisfied with less, but it actually frees me to pursue it more honestly.

Favorite Quote: “Curiosity is a precious thing.” — Nature Center Founder Elberta Fleming

What I Look for in a Leader: Someone with credibility, confidence and resilience, but they also stay open, take risks and are willing to step into the unknown.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I enjoy birdwatching year-round.

Favorite Quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” — Oscar Wilde

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outdoors on a hike with family and friends

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: I know I am biased here, but the newly reimagined Cleveland Museum of Natural History in University Circle is a real gem.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Arcade

What Success Looks Like to Me: Bringing happiness and peace to others What I Look for in a Leader: Humility and vision

What Motivates Me Right Now: New opportunities and challenges My Leadership Style: Service to others

An Important Lesson I Learned: Never assume.

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Any female character in The Devil Wears Prada, just to experience those fancy clothes and bags!

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clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 21

Arts & Museums

Aaron Petersal

Rhonda Brown

Johnny K. Wu

Stephanie White

Owner/Civic Leader

Media Design Imaging, Co-Founder of Cleveland Asian Festival, Co-Founder of Silk Road Cultural Collective

General Manager

Greater Cleveland Aquarium Education: MBA

How I Approach My Day: I like to start with a realistic to-do list that I put together the night before. While there’s something satisfying about crossing things off as I go, I also know every day can shift, so I try to stay flexible and available as needed.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Being able to keep doing what I love — making films, producing events, building community projects — while also having the time and energy to enjoy life

What I Look for in a Leader: The ability to build genuine, authentic connections

An Important Lesson I Learned: Listen to your body and take time to recharge both your mind and soul. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Jacobs Pavilion on a perfect Cleveland summer night, taking in skyline views and the Cuyahoga River while enjoying great music If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I’d co-star with Carrie Underwood on American Idol, mentoring rising talent and celebrating their once-in-a-lifetime journeys.

What I Look for in a Leader: Since I work across so many different roles (film, events, nonprofit), I appreciate a leader who understands that flexibility and adaptability matter. What Motivates Me Right Now: Seeing my work actually come together and make a real impact — whether that’s a film hitting the screen, an event drawing a crowd or a nonprofit program building something meaningful for the community

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I once spent an unforgettable night on a beach in Trinidad among nesting leatherback sea turtles.

President & CEO Assembly for the Arts

James “Jim” Porter

President Pro Football Hall of Fame

Geralyn Presti

President & CEO The Music Settlement

Tony Sias

Matthew Weinkam

Carl Topilow

Co-Founder, Artistic Director & Conductor The Cleveland Pops Orchestra Executive Director Literary Cleveland

A standing ovation for the 2026 Cleveland 500 including Craig Hassall AM

EDWARD P. GALLAGHER, LPMT, MT-BC

Beck Center

FOR THE

arts

17801 DETROIT AVE, LAKEWOOD, OH 44107 216.521.2540 | BECKCENTER.ORG

22 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Jeremy Johnson

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Researching and studying historical stuff — especially Tang and Ming dynasty material culture, Korean and Vietnamese historical dress and armor. I also keep up with martial arts training and practice.

BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS’ PRESIDENT & CEO

E D U C AT I O N

Director & President Cleveland Museum of Art

President & CEO Karamu House

Ed Gallagher on being named to the 2026 CLE 500. This well-deserved honor recognizes his leadership, vision, and lasting impact on Northeast Ohio.

President & CEO Cleveland Orchestra

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I love to sleep. I’ve been doing intensive, projectbased work since 1998 — film productions, big festivals, nonprofit leadership — and I’ve learned that I don’t do my best work when I’m tired. So, I prioritize getting enough rest, even when things are crazy busy.

CONGRATULATIONS,

T H E AT E R

André Gremillet

William Griswold

Education: Ohio University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Hearing from young adults who grew up visiting the aquarium about the fond memories and lasting impact it had on them

Senior Strategist Arts, Culture & Creative Economy City of Cleveland

EXHIBITIONS

tickets today!

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Banking & Finance

MAT T SEXTON

Banking & Finance clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 23

Michael E. Brosky CEO

First Federal Savings and Loan of Lorain

Carrie Carpenter Senior Vice President, Regional Director of Community Philanthropy & Engagement Huntington Bank

Education: Juris doctor, University of Akron; bachelor’s degree, Miami University

Education: Master’s degree, George Washington University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success to me is the ability as a community banker to offer products and services that enhance the people of my community.

How I Approach My Day: I’m very mission driven, so I approach each day thinking about how I can help improve our community. I’m lucky to have a career that enables me to do that, and I also volunteer on several nonprofit boards.

What I Look for in a Leader: I look for leaders to be self-starters who are respectful of others. Favorite Quote: “Anyone can take the helm when the sea is calm.” My Leadership Style: I try my best to never micromanage and to empower the people who work for me. I give them the ability to make mistakes so they can learn from them. Outside Work You’ll Find Me: You’ll find me out on the water.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is having the opportunity to continuously be learning and growing, and having a positive impact. What I Look for in a Leader: Sincerity, authenticity, enthusiasm and innovation My Leadership Style: I focus on building long-term relationships with people. I always advise people not to treat others as if they are a transaction. I work to gain knowledge, build trust and collaborate. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: I am an avid traveler and cook. I recently accomplished my goal to travel to 50 countries by age 50, and I take cooking classes all over the world. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The back patio at Luxe Kitchen in Gordon Square Arts District

Fred DiSanto Chairman & CEO Ancora

Education: MBA, Weatherhead School of Management; bachelor’s degree in management science, Case Western Reserve University What Success Looks Like to Me: Success to me is getting up every day and the feeling that I can’t wait to get to work. What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who is confident, can make decisions, is engaging and treats people with respect Favorite Quote: “Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit at home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” What Motivates Me Right Now: I love what I do, I like winning and I really like giving back. My Leadership Style: Inclusive, confident and lead by example An Important Lesson I Learned: You’re going to fail. Just learn from it and keep trying. Hard work pays off. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: I like to play golf and go out to restaurants. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Sara’s or Maxi’s

Todd Federman

Cindy Flynn

James R. Geuther

Managing Director

Chief Experience Officer

Regional President

North Coast Ventures

Ancora Holdings Group

Truist

Education: MBA, Duke University; bachelor’s degree in finance, Kent State University

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Southern Methodist University

Education: MBA, Weatherhead School of Management; bachelor’s degree, Miami University

How I Approach My Day: I try to focus on the few things that matter most, move them forward and stay available to the people and companies that need me. In venture, the day can shift quickly, so I try to stay disciplined but flexible.

What Success Looks Like to Me: I measure success not only by business outcomes, but by the relationships built, the people developed and the positive difference made along the way. At the end of the day, if I’ve helped someone grow, solved a challenge or left an organization stronger than I found it, that’s success.

Favorite Quote: “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 38)

What I Look for in a Leader: I admire leaders who combine vision with humility. The best leaders are authentic, decisive and willing to listen.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m blessed to have nine grandchildren

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is helping build companies, relationships and institutions that last. For me, it means seeing entrepreneurs, investors and the Northeast Ohio ecosystem move farther and experience wins because of the work we do. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for clarity, judgment, humility and follow-through. The best leaders make hard decisions, communicate plainly and bring people with them without needing all the credit. Favorite Quote: “Plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.” — Dwight D. Eisenhower An Important Lesson I Learned: Trust compounds. The best opportunities usually come from doing what you said you would do, treating people well and staying in the game long enough for good things to happen.

24 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Favorite Quote: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” — Theodore Roosevelt An Important Lesson I Learned: The most important lesson I’ve learned is that success is never achieved alone. The strongest organizations, teams and communities are built on trust, collaboration and shared purpose. Early in my career, I thought leadership was about having the answers. Today, I know it’s about asking the right questions, listening carefully and helping others succeed. When you invest in people and relationships, great outcomes follow.

What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m very competitive and motivated to win. My Leadership Style: Collaborative and servant oriented

An Important Lesson I Learned: The tried-and-true Golden Rule that I learned from my parents remains relevant. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: I love being on/near Lake Erie, so I recommend Pier W.

Chairman & CEO KeyCorp

Beth Hammack President & CEO

Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland

Michael Jeans President & CEO Growth Opps

Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, Miami University

Education: Bachelor’s degree in quantitative economics and history, Stanford University

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business with a minor in Spanish

What I Look for in a Leader: I look for someone who is forward-thinking and unafraid to challenge the status quo. The leaders I value most understand that enduring relationships with our teammates, clients and community partners are not a byproduct of good strategy — they are the strategy.

What Success Looks Like to Me: To me, success looks like delivering on the Fed’s mission of improving economic well-being in the region and the nation and making my family proud.

What Success Looks Like to Me: I believe success is inclusive of the journey and is not necessarily the target. The target for me is excellence; it is not achieved randomly and requires dedicated, continuous improvement. It requires intense, sincere preparation and intentionality, as well as a wisdom that allows one to adapt when obstacles arise. Once excellence becomes a habit, success is the byproduct rather than the target.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Endurance and resilience are not the same thing. Endurance is surviving something and getting to the other side of it. Resilience is rising above it and emerging stronger because of it. I have seen this distinction shape careers and organizations alike. We will all face difficulty. The question is not whether we get through it, but who we become in the process. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Staying active is incredibly important to me; it is how I recharge and sustain the energy that leadership demands. I prioritize time with my family, which keeps me grounded in what matters most. I also enjoy reading across all genres.

What Motivates Me Right Now: Going out and talking with business and community leaders across the Fourth Federal Reserve District, which includes Ohio, western Pennsylvania, eastern Kentucky and the northern panhandle of West Virginia, is what motivates me right now. On these visits, I learn about the challenges and opportunities leaders are facing, and it helps inform my thinking about not just where the economy is today, but where it will be six or 12 months from now. That’s how I can best ensure we deliver on our mission. An Important Lesson I Learned: It’s important to tell people about the great things that you’re doing. This may go against the Midwest ethos to not brag, but if you’re not telling your story, people won’t know the value you’re bringing.

What I Look for in a Leader: Great leaders look around a few corners ahead and see what is coming before most others. They have prepared for what is next and work diligently to help others prepare. Great leaders are trusted, and they do all they can to maintain that trust. Favorite Quote: “Company culture is not merely the words on a wall. It’s how employees feel on a Sunday night.” An Important Lesson I Learned: It is not who is your champion and by your side when the sun is shining bright upon you. It is who leans in when the clouds come — better still when the storm approaches.

Matt Nipper

Michael Obi

Andrew “Randy” Paine III

Regional President

President

Head of Institutional Banking

Fifth Third Bank, Northern Ohio Education: John Carroll University How I Approach My Day: I like to start every work day with a morning run or walk. It allows me to think about the day ahead and what I want to accomplish. Favorite Quote: “If you take care of the little things, the big things take care of themselves.” My Leadership Style: My leadership style is a participative one where I seek feedback from my team. I’m a huge believer that when you work with a great team, often the best ideas come from them on a path forward to solve any issues. If you aren’t going to listen to them, why have them in their seat? An Important Lesson I Learned: If you take calculated risks, it is OK to fail. If you never take any sort of risk, it is impossible to push yourself and your organization forward. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with my wife Missy, our two sons Owen and Evan and our two cats Skippy Jon Jones and London

UBIZ Venture Capital

KeyBank

Education: MBA, University of North Florida’s Coggin School of Business

Education: Bachelor’s degree in economics, DePauw University

How I Approach My Day: My best days are the days when I do not rush out immediately first thing in the morning. Physical exercise and quiet time in the morning are recipes for a productive day.

What Success Looks Like to Me: I’m guided by a commitment to long-term value creation — for our clients, our communities and our people. Every decision is anchored in integrity, accountability and a clear understanding of risk and reward. I rely on data, experience and diverse perspectives to inform the path forward, but ultimately, I ask: Does this align with our purpose, strengthen trust and drive sustainable, profitable growth?

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success to me is accomplishing what I set my eyes on, big or small, remembering to celebrate those small wins. Most importantly, the best measure of success is based on the quality of lives that I positively impacted. Favorite Quote: “What you imagine long enough, you eventually become.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Seeing what was once an imagination not long ago becoming a legacy that could last for generations An Important Lesson I Learned: Start something, no matter how small. Just get started. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Playing golf or traveling A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Cavs game at Rocket Arena If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: The Cosby Show

What Motivates Me Right Now: Getting to know our clients and their teams is one of my favorite parts of the job and motivates me each day. It’s deeply gratifying to play a role in their success. My Leadership Style: I’m a big believer in building trust. All leaders must earn the trust of their teams to truly lead. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: I like to do most any physical activity to take care of both my mind and body. I’m also deeply committed to community service. It’s incredibly important to give back, so I’ve been honored to participate in organizations that make a tremendous difference.

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 25

Banking & Finance

Chris Gorman

Patrick M. Pastore

Robert C. Smith

Regional President

Practice Leader

PNC

Cerity Partners

Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, Miami University of Ohio; MBA, Carnegie Mellon University

Education: MBA in finance, Duquesne University; bachelor’s degree in accounting, Ohio Northern University

How I Approach My Day: Staying present and intentional in everything I do

How I Approach My Day: Anxious to advance opportunities and to learn of the new opportunities

What Success Looks Like to Me: Seeing the people around me grow and thrive

What Success Looks Like to Me: Happiness from the love and support of my family and the opportunity to advance the greater good in collaboration with others

What I Look for in a Leader: Empathy, integrity, transparency and someone who listens first What Motivates Me Right Now: My family, our clients and this incredible community Favorite Quote: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” — Theodore Roosevelt

What I Look for in a Leader: Someone whose followers have confidence in their vision and someone who possesses the skills needed to get the buy-in of all needed to achieve that vision Favorite Quote: “People can be ornery about their rights and slippery about their responsibilities.” — Margaret Chase Smith What Motivates Me Right Now: The happiness of my family and friends My Leadership Style: Collaborative, thorough and working to get buy-in An Important Lesson I Learned: The difference between approval and buy-in Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Golfing and spending time with my family

Jeneen Springer Marziani

President, Bank of America Ohio, Direct Marketing & Servicing Communications

Cindy L. Steeb

Tom Zucker

Bank of America

Founder & CEO

CLS Legacy Team

President & Founder

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Miami University How I Approach My Day: I try to start each day with intention. Before the emails, meetings and demands of the day begin, I take a few quiet moments to focus on what matters most. I’m naturally a list person, but over time I’ve learned that the best days aren’t defined by what I accomplish — they’re defined by the impact I have on others. It is about showing up for people, both personally and professionally. What Success Looks Like to Me: Ultimately, success is knowing you’ve made a positive difference in the lives of others. What I Look for in a Leader: I admire leaders who lead with humility, confidence and strong character. The best leaders aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo, speak up when it matters and take action to solve problems. Favorite Quote: “Progress happens when people come together around a shared purpose and a commitment to serve others.”

26 Cleveland 500 | 2026

How I Approach My Day: As an earlier riser, I am up around 4:30 a.m. to enjoy the quiet of the morning to read and organize my thoughts for the day. Many of my best ideas come to me in the quiet of the morning. What Success Looks Like to Me: Having a passion for what you do and enjoying getting up each day. I hope to leave the world a better place for having been here. Favorite Quote: “Just do it.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Working with families as the next generation steps into their roles as new family leaders. Also, watching my team develop and grow into the wonderful professionals that they are is motivating every single day. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: By federal definition, I am considered a farmer, and I live on my family farm with horses, dogs and chickens. I start every day before the sun rises in my horse barn.

Education: Case Western University What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is measured by the impact your efforts have on others’ outcomes. The ability to positively impact a person in need, an aspiring businessperson or a business owner contemplating an ownership transition is how I define success. What I Look for in a Leader: Leaders are the ones who shine in challenging times. They do not need to be seen or deemed important, but their impact during a crisis is invaluable. Favorite Quote: “The quality of a man’s life is in direct proportion to his commitment to excellence.” — Vince Lombardi What Motivates Me Right Now: The ability to live in interesting times is a blessing. The transformative impact of AI on business is certainly making these times exciting. An Important Lesson I Learned: My father used to always say, “The business of business is people, and if you want to succeed in business, you must understand how to read and motivate people.” GABE LEIDY

If I Could Trade Places with Anyone: I’d trade places with Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft for a day. He has transformed one of the world’s most influential companies by combining innovation, culture and purpose.

Education: Juris doctor, Cleveland State University; MBA, DePaul University; bachelor’s degree, College of Wooster

EdgePoint Capital

Executive Chairman & CEO MAI Capital Management

William Cosgrove

President & CEO Union Home Mortgage

Ralph Della Ratta

Partner Kirtland Capital Partners

Michael Drennan

Managing Director, Head of Office Hightower Signature Wealth

William Elliott Jr. Executive Vice President Dollar Bank

Heather Ettinger Founder & CEO Luma Thrive

Matt Gausman

Market Executive JPMorganChase

Brian Gevry

CEO, Co-CIO Boyd Watterson Asset Management

Wesley Gillespie President ERIEBANK

David Goldberg

Principal Edgerton Investments

Stewart Kohl

Boyd Pethel

Executive Vice President, Metro Commercial Banking First National Bank

Timothy Phillips

President & CEO First Federal Lakewood

Tom Pitera

Operating Partner Blue Point Capital

Marc Stefanski

Co-CEO Riverside Co.

Kara Lewis

Regional Senior Managing Partner AB Bernstein

Frank Linsalata

Founder & Chairman Linsalata Capital Partners

Chairman & CEO Third Federal Savings & Loan

Jay Turakhia

Northeast Ohio Region President Huntington National Bank

Kevin Myeroff

Principal and Senior Strategic Advisor Sequoia Financial Group

“WE HAVE A ONCE-IN-A-GENERATION OPPORTUNITY TO REBUILD CLEVELAND’S AIRPORT.” — BRYANT FRANCIS Team CLE proudly congratulates Director Bryant L. Francis, C.M., on being named to the 2026 CLE 500. Together, we’re advancing a transformational vision for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: modernizing our facilities, elevating the traveler experience, and creating a gateway that will serve our region for decades to come.

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 27

Banking & Finance

Rick Buoncore

CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TRI-C ® )

CONGRATULATES Dr. Michael Baston and

Megan O’Bryan Tri-C is proud to recognize Dr. Michael Baston and Megan O’Bryan for being named among Cleveland’s most influential people.

tri-c.edu 216-987-6000 26-0467

Business

GABE WASYLKO

Business

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 29

Kevin S. Adelstein

Jeff Ahola

Michelle L. Burke

President, Publisher & CEO

CEO

President

Cleveland Jewish Publication Co.

Ahola Corp.

Ohio Marine Trades Association

Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, The Ohio State University

Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science and marketing, The Ohio State University

Education: Master’s degree in bioethics, Case Western Reserve University; bachelor’s degree, Boston College

Favorite Quote: As the English poet Alexander Pope famously wrote, “To err is human,” and one phrase I often live by is, “Control the controllable.” Together, those ideas are a reminder to give grace when mistakes happen while staying focused on the things we can influence and improve.

How I Approach My Day: I enjoy a wonderful cup of coffee and a gratitude meditation. I also enjoy having a written list that, at the end of the day, I can cross items off.

If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Someone seeing Lake Erie from the water for the first time. Experiencing life from the water changes your perspective. You understand the beauty, the scale, the opportunity and the responsibility all at once.

If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My son, Cooper What Motivates Me Right Now: My family, my colleagues and our board of directors at the Cleveland Jewish Publication Co. I’m also motivated by maintaining an optimistic mindset and a sense of hope — believing that even during challenging times, good people, strong leadership and meaningful work can continue to make a positive difference in our community and beyond. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am sandwiched between two sets of twin brothers — all of us five years apart — from the oldest set of twins to the youngest. We are all the best of friends, thankfully. Our mother is a saint, and our father was the ringleader of our motley crew.

What I Look for in a Leader: I look for people who take chances that might be a mistake. When they mess up, they fess up. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I wouldn’t want to trade with anyone. What Motivates Me Right Now: Enjoying the work that I was destined to do What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I learned computer programming when I was 15 years old. I’m also an inductee in the Lorain County Junior Bowling Hall of Fame!

An Important Lesson I Learned: You cannot wait for perfect conditions to lead. Often, the most meaningful work happens in the face of uncertainty, with incomplete information, competing opinions and limited resources. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Intercity Yacht Club. Founded by Black boaters who were not always welcomed elsewhere, Intercity is a reminder that access to the water has not always been equal, and that preserving places like this matters. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Somewhere between The West Wing and Parks and Recreation, but set on the Cleveland waterfront. Serious issues, big personalities, public service, occasional chaos and hopefully a few wins along the way.

Micki Byrnes

Emily Campbell

Chief Communications Officer, Senior Advisor

President & CEO

The Adcom Group

What Motivates Me Right Now: I am motivated by the chance to rebuild pathways into boating, especially for young people and communities that have not always had access to the water.

The Center for Community Solutions

Scott Chapin CEO

Marcus Thomas

Education: Bachelor’s degree in communications, University of Maine

Education: Master’s degree in political science; bachelor’s degree in economics and international studies

Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Allegheny College

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success looks different from each side of a decade. Things I used to think were so important become less relevant the older I get. Earlier in life, success looked like achievement — titles, growth, building something meaningful. I still care about those things, but age changes the prism a bit. Now success also looks like relationships that last, work that actually matters and enjoying the life you’ve built along the way.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is seeing policy translate into real, measurable improvements in people’s lives. I love when the work of The Center for Community Solutions quietly changes the trajectory of conversations and allows data, advocacy and partnerships to come together to make systems work better.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is a balance of accomplishment, satisfaction and well-being — at work and at home. Success must be measured through multiple lenses to ensure that one priority doesn’t get out of alignment with another.

What Motivates Me Right Now: Time motivates me — using it well, not squandering any of it on efforts and projects that aren’t impactful to either the business or my life. Eventually you realize time is the one thing you never really get back. That changes how you prioritize things, who you spend your energy on and what feels worth chasing. What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who has a vision and can clearly communicate it. Someone who is smart but quick to acknowledge they don’t have every answer. Someone who has the courage to have the tough conversations but still leads with heart.

Favorite Quote: “Perfect is the enemy of good.” — Voltaire What Motivates Me Right Now: We have a lot of evidence about what works to improve health, social and economic conditions, and we have real opportunities to make sure that knowledge drives policy decisions. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’ve never watched West Wing, despite working in public policy my entire career. An Important Lesson I Learned: Expertise means embracing nuance, but impact requires clarity. You have to know when to go deep and when to cut straight to the point. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Eastman Reading Garden at Cleveland Public Library’s main branch

30 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Favorite Quote: “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” — Walt Disney What Motivates Me Right Now: We are resetting the company after five years with private equity. I’m motivated to build an agency that clients love working with and people love working at. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: My background is not in marketing — it’s in computer science. I have learned all I know about marketing through daily interactions with great clients and peers. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Watching baseball at Progressive Field. For me, baseball is a perfect combination of strategy, action and numbers.

Business

Amanda Cole

José C. Feliciano Sr.

Daniel Hampu

Executive Director

Chairman

President & CEO

Plexus Education Foundation Education: Bachelor’s degree, Antioch College What Success Looks Like to Me: I know we’re doing it right when people leave feeling better than when they arrived — more inspired, more relaxed or with a new resource, opportunity or relationship. As a membership organization, growth matters, but the reason people join matters more. What Motivates Me Right Now: Lately, I’ve found myself paying closer attention to the small wins — the moments of perseverance that remind us progress is still happening. Success isn’t always about being the biggest or strongest. Sometimes it’s simply about showing up, pushing forward and finding joy in the effort. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I studied as an herbalist in my 20s. While the knowledge is a bit dusty, I’m a good resource for natural healing remedies. And I can identify at least 50 native plants. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: A zombie show like The Last of Us. I’d finally get the chance to prove to my family that I’m survivor material.

The Hispanic Roundtable Education: Juris doctor, Cleveland-Marshall College of Law; master’s degree in business administration, Cleveland State University; bachelor’s degree, John Carroll University How I Approach My Day: I spend the first half hour in the presence of God, reading scripture and studying his word. What I Look for in a Leader: Integrity above all. But integrity requires courage. As Winston Churchill said: “Courage is rightly considered the first of human qualities because it is the quality which guarantees all others.” Without courage, values are just words.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Everything in your life has led you to the moment you are in today. Somehow that gives me confidence to take whatever challenge that lies ahead. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Metroparks here are so good. I try not to take them for granted.

Favorite Quote: “First I dream my painting, then I paint my dreams.” — Vincent van Gogh What Motivates Me Right Now: My wife and kids

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Coaching something that my kids are doing

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am actually an introvert.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Never take a day for granted.

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I’d love to host The Tonight Show, deliver a killer, self-deprecating monologue and then interview the key political, business and cultural leaders in the U.S.

Executive Director

What Success Looks Like to Me: Hemingway used to say that if he wrote one true sentence each day that it was a successful day. I feel if I can move our company’s mission forward in one true way, no matter how small, it was a successful day.

What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who blends vision and execution and inspiration and discipline

My Leadership Style: I want to inspire and motivate other leaders to help “the last, the least and the lost.”

President

How I Approach My Day: Lately, I look at myself as a project manager. I touch all phases of the business depending on what is needed, so my projects are very different in scope. One could be personnel related, another new markets and another operations, but I try to scope them in a way where there is a defined timeline and outcome. Otherwise, they will drag on forever. Each day I am trying to get traction on those projects.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Setting aggressive goals and actively moving the needle toward achieving them

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I can beatbox fairly well.

Phyllis Harris

Education: Ohio University

Education: Juris doctor and MBA, University of Akron; bachelor’s degree in business administration, Mount Union College

Favorite Quote: “Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; genius will not; education will not. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.” — President Calvin Coolidge

Lute Harmon Jr. Cleveland Studios and Great Lakes Studios

Burton D. Morgan Foundation

LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland

Corey Head President Sky Quest

Education: Master’s degree in nonprofit management, Case Western Reserve University

Education: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace technology, Kent State University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success looks like having the freedom, resources and influence to live by my values, build things that serve my community, support the leaders coming behind me and make choices from purpose rather than pressure.

How I Approach My Day: I prioritize, and it usually starts with, “what does the family need?” and “do I have time for something healthy?” Then mostly work stuff with the same prioritizing philosophy.

What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m motivated by people and possibility. I care about work that creates more room for people who have been pushed aside or underestimated. I feel good seeing people grow, watching organizations get stronger and knowing that my leadership can leave something useful behind.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Happiness for me, my family, my employees, my clients and my investors What I Look for in a Leader: Integrity, work ethic and a team-focused mentality Favorite Quote: “Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today.”

My Leadership Style: My leadership style is grounded, strategic and values centered. I try to see the full picture, name what is real and help people move with confidence.

My Leadership Style: Treat others the way I want to be treated.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outside of work, you’ll find me in my side yard taking photos of flowers, checking on what is blooming and finding a little beauty close to home. It is one of the ways I slow myself down, pay attention and remember that life is more than the next meeting or responsibility.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: It’s a little west, but sunsets at Catawba Island are amazing.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Boating, golfing or flying airplanes

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: A couple of minutes interacting with Kramer in Seinfeld would be amazing.

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 31

Cindy Holzheimer President & CEO

Northern Ohio Area Chambers of Commerce (NOACC) Education: Associate degree; certificate of nonprofit organization management (U.S. Chamber of Commerce); certified association executive (the American Society of Association Executives) Favorite Quote: “Nothing is impossible; the word itself says ‘I’m possible.’” — Audrey Hepburn What Motivates Me Right Now: Creating new initiatives that strengthen the connection between businesses and their local chambers of commerce. While NOACC offers cost-saving opportunities, that’s only one piece of the ROI chamber membership can deliver. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m a big-time introvert. Public speaking still freaks me out every time, but I’ve learned ways to cope over the years, and most people never notice. To my fellow sufferers, I’m with you!

Keith Hotchkiss

Joey Huang

Cleveland Area President

President

iHeartMedia Education: Ohio University

How I Approach My Day: The world feels chaotic, but I try to approach each day somewhere between expecting to get punched in the gut and the perspective that Maya Angelou shared: “I love this day; I’ve never seen this one before.” I find myself somewhere in the middle, striving for optimism amid the uncertainty. Glass half full is the way to go. What Motivates Me Right Now: Navigating people through a wild time in history. Understanding the emergence of AI and how it will or won’t impact work and how we conduct commerce in 20 years My Leadership Style: I don’t care about chains of command, protocols or process. If it makes people and our organization better, do it. I want people to try new things and make mistakes.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Stop every once in a while and look around. Enjoy your life, appreciate the people around you and be present in the moment.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I can own a room if I need to, but I’m actually quite shy, and I get nervous speaking in front of big groups.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: My husband and I have been enjoying our newly remodeled backyard with family and friends, made possible by local vendors we found at the Great Big Home + Garden Show.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: I love living Downtown … Becky’s is the best joint in Cleveland for my money.

Great Lakes Auto Group Education: The Ohio State University; Western Reserve Academy How I Approach My Day: Every day I wake up at 4 a.m. with my best energy for the day, so my mornings are where I need to get my most important work completed. What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is being significant. Personally, I want to be significant helping someone’s life, one person at a time. Favorite Quote: “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.” What Motivates Me Right Now: My father. He passed about two years ago, but he has never left me nor his community. It’s amazing for me to watch his name still live on in our hometown. My Leadership Style: I am a leader by example who will always stay humble serving others. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: Even though I am an owner of 13 automotive dealerships with nearly 1,000 employees, I am actually a dentist by education. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: I have become a huge pickleball fan and, of course, I love the game of golf.

Kelly Keefe

Tricia Lucas

Octavio Marquez

President & CEO

President

President & CEO

ERC

Armada Growth Partners

Education: Bachelor’s degree, University of Dayton

Education: John Carroll University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success, to me, is when people are growing, engaged and find real purpose in their work. It also means making a meaningful impact in Cleveland, helping build stronger leaders, stronger cultures and a stronger community.

How I Approach My Day: I approach each day with optimism, energy and the understanding that no two days are ever the same.

What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m motivated by people, especially the strength and spirit of our Cleveland community. I’m grateful every day for my friends, family and the incredible network around me. I believe together we’re building a city that has real momentum and heart. My Leadership Style: My leadership style is all about building real relationships and creating an environment where people feel seen, supported and inspired to do meaningful work. I lead with transparency and energy, and I truly believe culture becomes a competitive advantage when you show up for it consistently every day. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: One of my favorite things to recommend is simply walking in the Cleveland Metroparks. There are trails all around us here in Cleveland, and they are amazing.

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My Leadership Style: The leaders who have made the greatest impact on me inspire others and produce results, not through titles or authority, but through their actions, character and the way they treat people. An Important Lesson I Learned: Patience. Not everything needs an immediate answer or solution, and sometimes the best thing you can do is trust the process and let things play out. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outside of work, you’ll usually find me on a patio, near the water, spending time with family and friends or at a workout class. If I have the chance to try something new, explore a new place or say yes to a new experience, I’m always in. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: A Hallmark Christmas movie or an episode of Suits. I know they’re complete opposites, but I’m equally obsessed with both.

Diebold Nixdorf Inc. Education: Bachelor’s degree in business and finance, Universidad Iberoamericana How I Approach My Day: With a clear sense of priorities, optimism and a focus on removing obstacles so our teams can succeed Favorite Quote: “Success is never owned. It’s rented and the rent is due every day.” My Leadership Style: Transparent, accountable and collaborative. I set high expectations, empower talented people and believe leaders should spend more time listening than talking. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: Running has become one of my favorite ways to think. Some of my best ideas come during long runs. An Important Lesson I Learned: The best strategy only matters if people believe in it and can execute it consistently. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Traveling with my wife and spending time with my three adult sons If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Moneyball. I admire the willingness to challenge conventional thinking and use data, innovation and teamwork to build a competitive advantage.

Senior Vice President

ESPN Cleveland/Good Karma Education: Lehigh University How I Approach My Day: As an opportunity. Every day starts at zero. Yesterday’s successes don’t guarantee today’s results, and yesterday’s setbacks don’t define today. Favorite Quote: Thomas Edison’s observation that “opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Helping people grow. Whether it’s a teammate, a partner, my family, or our company, I enjoy helping people see possibilities they may not see for themselves. I’m also fascinated by how AI is changing the way we work, learn and solve problems. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: People might assume that because I work in sports and love sports, my favorite event would always be a big game. The truth is, I get more excited about a night at Playhouse Square with my daughter Ellie. But I still love every sporting event I get to attend. An Important Lesson I Learned: It’s more important to find the right answer than to be the person who is right.

Denise Polverine Vice President & Publisher Cleveland Magazine/Cleveland Studios/Scene Education: Bachelor’s degree, Cleveland State University What Success Looks Like to Me: It isn’t one story that goes viral, a big award or one quarter’s results. Those are all important, but I think success is building a culture where people feel motivated to do their best work, create experiences and content that matter to our readers and help businesses connect with the community in deep, meaningful ways. What I Look for in a Leader: I believe the best leaders create more leaders. They challenge and support people and give them the confidence to take risks, grow and succeed. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I would trade places with a sports journalist for a day. I’d love to go beyond the sidelines and find the stories within the story. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: I love to be with family and friends. My favorite times are with my husband, children and our two grandsons, Lukey and Max. I try to be with them as much as possible.

Business

Sam Pines

Matt Radicelli Founder

Mentor Pods Education: Master’s degree, School of Hard Knocks How I Approach My Day: I try to approach each day with clarity, urgency and perspective. I like to know what actually matters before I start reacting to everything that is loud. I have learned that being busy is not the same as being effective. Favorite Quote: “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” — Zig Ziglar My Leadership Style: Direct, practical and people first. I like clarity. I like action. I like honest conversations that actually move something forward. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am a builder at heart, but not just with businesses. I love tinkering with technology, music, production, home projects and systems that make life better. An Important Lesson I Learned: A business should serve your life, not quietly take it over. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Probably something like Shark Tank meets The Profit, but with more humor and less drama

Kenn Ricci Chairman Flexjet

Education: Cleveland State University College of Law; University of Notre Dame What Success Looks Like to Me: To be passionate about what you do and compassionate about how you do it. Wealth and success should be the consequence of, and not the focus of, what you do. Favorite Quote: My father had a saying: “Don’t miss the five best days of your life.” It meant that you never know which ones they will be, so you have to be ready to enjoy them all. My Leadership Style: Provocateur. I like to probe the issues and solutions to ascertain not only how the issue was resolved, but also the process that was used. If you challenge the process and not the result, you are creating the foundation for solving future problems.

GABE WASYLKO

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I began my college career studying to be an actor. An Important Lesson I Learned: Displaying faults and vulnerabilities is a great way to build trust. When you expose your weakness, you are signaling that you are willing to have a deeper relationship with someone and that you trust them.

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Paul Roetzer

Mike Rossi

Founder & CEO

Chief Financial Officer

SmarterX

Flexjet

Nico Samaniego President & CEO

Lorain County Chamber of Commerce

Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, Ohio University

Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, John Carroll University

Education: Business administration, Bowling Green State University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is creating the freedom to spend more time with the people and on the projects that matter most.

How I Approach My Day: I prioritize. That is my first task at the start of each day.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Continuing to build on the great work already being done and expanding the impact the chamber can have both for our members and the county

What I Look for in a Leader: Curiosity and intrinsic motivation. The best leaders are constantly learning, connecting ideas and adapting to change. I also look for emotional intelligence, resilience and a willingness to solve problems. What Motivates Me Right Now: We’re living through one of the most important technology shifts in history, and helping people understand and apply AI is incredibly energizing. I’m motivated by the opportunity to build new things, rethink old assumptions and help organizations prepare for what’s next. My Leadership Style: I try to be optimistic, transparent and focused on the future. I want people to challenge ideas, bring solutions and experiment.

What I Look for in a Leader: Being a good listener is the No. 1 most important quality in a leader. Favorite Quote: “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” — Benjamin Franklin What Motivates Me Right Now: Creating an environment where people can be proud of themselves and others What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: If I could have any other job, I’d be a high school principal. An Important Lesson I Learned: In my first job as a golf caddie, I learned the importance of being on time. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Hoosiers

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I went to college to be a doctor.

What I Look for in a Leader: Visionary — someone who can see into the future and determine what actions we need to take to be in the best position possible. Change is inevitable. Either it controls us or we control it. Favorite Quote: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.” — Will Durant My Leadership Style: Collaborative but decisive. I want every voice in the room, then I’ll find the path that leads to agreed upon outcomes. An Important Lesson I Learned: We overestimate what we can do in one year but underestimate what we can do in 10. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with my son, enjoying Lake Erie or tinkering with my flower garden

An Important Lesson I Learned: Embrace failure. Never hesitate to head in a direction that others seem to fear. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Joe’s Deli in Rocky River

Michael Silvestro

Alan Spitzer

Bryan Stubbs

CEO

Chairman & CEO

President & CEO

Education: Bachelor’s degree, University of Notre Dame

Education: Baldwin Wallace University; Case Western Reserve University

What I Look for in a Leader: Empathy

How I Approach My Day: Dale Carnegie, author of How to Win Friends and Influence People, advised to live in “day-tight compartments.” Block out yesterday and don’t dwell on tomorrow. Make every day count!

Flexjet

Favorite Quote: “Aim at heaven and you will get Earth thrown in; aim at Earth and you get neither.” — C.S. Lewis If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: University of Notre Dame Head Coach Marcus Freeman What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have a motorcycle license so I can drive our Vespa around town. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: On a good run, spending time with my grandchildren or on a date with my wife A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Downtown 140 in Hudson

Spitzer Management Inc.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is a journey, not a destination. Happiness is to be found along the way, not at the end of the road — for then the journey is over and it is too late. The time for happiness is today, not tomorrow. What I Look for in a Leader: Integrity, humility, empathy, optimism, decisiveness and accountability Favorite Quote: “Do all the good you can in all the ways you can in all the places you can at all the times you can to all the people you can as long as you ever can.” — John Wesley, “Rules of Conduct” My Leadership Style: I believe there are three basic leadership styles: autocratic, democratic and catalytic. I believe in the latter. Good leaders provide a spark that energizes the team and raises spirits.

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Cleveland Water Alliance Education: MBA, University of Illinois-Chicago Favorite Quote: “Make haste slowly.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Seeing Cleveland thrive as a global destination for water innovation and economic success My Leadership Style: Empowering and collaborative. I believe in giving the team room to try new things. If you’re making mistakes, it means you’re trying. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Riding my bike on the inland trail A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Mahall’s

CEO & Founder

Synergy International Ltd. Inc. Education: Doctoral degree in management, Case Western Reserve University; master’s degree in business administration, Cleveland State University; bachelor’s degree, University of Rochester How I Approach My Day: I anchor myself in one question: who needs me most today, and what is mine to do? I choose to begin thankful and grounded. What Success Looks Like to Me: The moment a leader I coached makes the hard, right call long after our work has ended, with me nowhere in the room What I Look for in a Leader: Character before charisma, every single time. I am drawn to leaders who take radical ownership and who never go looking for somewhere to lay the blame. I value those who make courageous choices and own them without flinching. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I would trade places with my grandmother, my mother’s mother, for one single day. She had 19 children with my grandfather, and she was an earth angel whose capacity for love I am still learning to comprehend. I want to feel her hands at work, hear the prayers she whispered over children whose futures she could not guarantee, and understand the quiet courage that became my inheritance.

Tony Weber CEO

Goldfarb Weber Creative Media Education: Bachelor’s degree, Denison University How I Approach My Day: Prioritize, learn, adapt, solve problems, get results, have some fun and prepare for tomorrow What I Look for in a Leader: A strong leader has integrity, awareness, vision, adaptability and great communication skills. Favorite Quote: “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” — Mahatma Gandhi What Motivates Me Right Now: I love being part of a creative team that keeps moving Cleveland forward. All of our work makes Cleveland a better place to live, work and play. My Leadership Style: I love leading a team around a shared vision — being that motivator that instills passion and creates unity, so we are all successful and satisfied. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have never picked up a golf club, and I have no desire to. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: At a business or nonprofit event, a rock concert, a sporting event, a play, working out or mostly on the couch watching a news show on TV.

Jackie Wachter Co-Founder and Creative Director FOUNT

Education: Miami University How I Approach My Day: I try to stay fully present in whatever I’m doing — giving my full attention to family when I’m with them and focusing completely on work when I’m at work. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I would trade places with a mom from the 1980s or 1990s, meaning I would keep my same life — just a few decades earlier. Today, life often feels overscheduled, especially for children … Phillip (my husband) and I are trying to be intentional about creating a different rhythm for our three young boys. My Leadership Style: I value people’s perspectives and aim to create a creative environment where team members are empowered to develop and own their ideas. I also try to know my team beyond work by taking interest in their lives, families and hobbies to build genuine connections.

Business

Rachel Talton

Kristin Warzocha President & CEO

Greater Cleveland Food Bank Education: Executive leadership certificate in nonprofit leadership (in progress), Harvard; bachelor’s degree in communications, John Carroll University How I Approach My Day: I am a big fan of a morning routine. I am up by 5 a.m. to meditate, exercise and plan my day. Favorite Quote: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — African Proverb My Leadership Style: Collaborative and mission driven What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I flew in an F-16 with the Thunderbirds. They are incredible! Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: In my garden A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The West Side Market. A Cleveland gem!

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m very down-to-earth and enjoy spending time outdoors camping and being in nature with my husband and our three adventurous boys. At home, we care for a ball python, a leopard gecko and a chipmunk.

Brad Whitehead Managing Director Site Readiness for Good Jobs Fund

Education: Bachelor’s degree in economics, Harvard College; master’s degree in public administration, Kennedy School of Government How I Approach My Day: It all begins with a homemade chocolate chip cookie — every day should start with a touch of sweetness. What Motivates Me Right Now: The 3,500 acres of brownfields in the city poised for their next chapter, thousands of residents who just want a shot at opportunity, funders and investors who have placed their trust in the Site Readiness Fund and a mayor who told us that “Cleveland can’t wait” If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My 30-year-old self. I would have so many fewer aches and pains.

Joe Arcuri

President & CEO American Greetings

Jim Bass

President Mike Bass Ford

Kimberly Beckett

President & CEO Downtown Akron Partnership

Noel Blaha

President & General Manager Akron RubberDucks/Fast Forward Sports Group

Don Boodjeh

CEO Discount Drug Mart Inc.

Bethia Burke

President Fund for Our Economic Future

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I lived with a band of Mbuti pygmies in Africa and almost became an anthropologist.

Joe Cimperman

An Important Lesson I Learned: Everybody, no matter how senior or accomplished, is dealing with something — a fear, a loss, an illness, a disappointment, an insecurity. That explains a lot of who they are and why they do what they do.

Chris Conroy

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Cleveland Ballet

President & CEO Global Cleveland

General Manager WOIO & WUAB TV

Tony Di Fiore

Owner Car Parts Warehouse

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Taylor Evans

President Rust Belt Recruiting

Rob Falls

Fred Koury

Owner, President & CEO Smart Business Network Inc.

Chairman, Founder & CEO Falls & Co.

Joe Kubic

Ken Ganley

Michael Kubinski

President & CEO Ganley Automotive Group

Rusty Harris

Vice President & General Manager Enbridge Gas Ohio

Ansir Junaid

Founder, Chairman & CEO Junaid Group

Michael Kahoe

CEO Group Management Services Inc.

Matt Kaulig

Executive Chairman & Founder Kaulig Cos.

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CEO The Adcom Group CEO, Founder & Creative Director CLE Clothing Co. LLC

Ron Leonhardt

Founder & CEO CrossCountry Mortgage

Scot Lowry

Co-Founder & Managing Partner PromiseONE Cos.

Jay Lucarelli

CEO Minute Men Human Resource System

Kevin Martin

President & CEO Ideastream

John McMicken Jr.

Terry Rafih

Scott Mueller

Radhika Reddy

CEO Evergreen Cooperatives CEO Dealer Tire

Nick Osiecki CEO Step2 Co. LLC

Gary Panteck

Owner Brunswick Auto Mart

Joshua Peirez

President & CEO J.D. Power

Paul Perozeni

Vice President & General Manager WJW-TV

Michelle Primm

Managing Partner Cascade Auto Group

Chris Quinn

President & Editor Advance Local/The Plain Dealer

Chairman & CEO Rafih Auto Group Partner Ariel Ventures

Anthony Salgado

President & CEO Hyster-Yale Materials Handling

Jeff Schell

Publisher The Morning Journal, News-Herald

Renee Singleton

President & CEO Singleton & Partners

Mark Smucker

Chairman & CEO The J.M. Smucker Co.

J.K. Symancyk CEO Signet Jewelers

Tameka Taylor

President Compass Consulting Services LLC

Kevin Thomas

Partner PwC Trust Solutions Partner

Brian Tierney

Board Chair, President & CEO FirstEnergy Corp.

Steve Weinstein Vice President & General Manager WEWS News 5

Chas Withers

Chairman & CEO Dix & Eaton

Community Leaders

ERIK DROST

Community Leaders clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 37

A. Ray Dalton Kate Borders President

University Circle Inc.

Founder & Executive Chairman

Relink Medical, the Dalton Foundation and Relink.org

Education: Master’s degree in arts administration

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Chapman University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success to me is not the external accomplishments, although those are always nice, but more in how I live by my values and lift up the people around me.

What I Look for in a Leader: The highest level of honesty, integrity and drive. The product, services or software can be learned, but honesty, integrity and grit are deeper and cannot be taught.

What Motivates Me Right Now: Looking at the opportunities in University Circle and the Masterplan that we are working toward implementing inspires and motivates me every day … If we get this right, University Circle won’t be a regional gem but rather a global attraction.

If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I would like to be the governor of Ohio. I think I understand the issues businesses face, those wanting to move up, the issues those reentering from incarceration, homelessness and human trafficking face and would certainly bring clarity to the fiscal madness we are seeing around us.

My Leadership Style: Leaders are called to make tough decisions and we make mistakes all the time, but if we approach those moments with curiosity, empathy and we own our mistakes, then we lead with steadiness that elevates others. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I love superheroes, their alter egos, their origin stories and the real-life lessons that carry through them. In my head, I’m relating almost everything to a superhero allegory. While there are examples of DC greatness (excited for Supergirl), Marvel is my go-to.

My Leadership Style: I am inclusive and want others to participate and to own the responsibility for the outcome. All problems are solvable, but often they need to be broken down to smaller achievements that ultimately solve the bigger issue. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: My wife and I have horses and are frequent trail riders. We keep the horses on our property, and I muck their stalls every morning. Good time to think. An Important Lesson I Learned: Solve a problem and become successful. Solve a problem for a lot of people and build a great company made up of problem solvers.

Michael Deemer CEO

Downtown Cleveland Education: Juris doctor, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law; master’s degree, University of Notre Dame; bachelor’s degree, Ohio University What I Look for in a Leader: I’m drawn to leaders who combine idealism and pragmatism. They know what they stand for, but they also understand timing, relationships and execution. Favorite Quote: One of my favorite exchanges is from the book, A Prayer for the City. After a meeting, David Cohen, Philadelphia Mayor Ed Rendell’s chief of staff, says, “That was interesting. And totally useless.” Rendell replies, “Like most meetings.” Cohen answers, “No, most meetings aren’t interesting.” What Motivates Me Right Now: My 12-year-old daughter motivates me. I believe the decisions we make now about Downtown Cleveland will shape this city for a generation or more. An Important Lesson I Learned: I’ve learned that alignment isn’t bureaucracy; it’s what makes efficient execution possible. In city-building work, taking the time upfront to get people clear on goals, roles and the action plan saves time, money and frustration later. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: The X-Files. In an era of conspiracy theories, it feels strangely current.

John F. Garofalo

Dan Moulthrop

Lorne Novick

President & CEO

CEO

Akron Community Foundation

The City Club of Cleveland

Education: Master’s degree in education and bachelor’s degree, Kent State University

Education: Master’s in jurisprudence, bachelor’s degree, University of California-Berkeley

What I Look for in a Leader: I value leaders who are transparent, dependable and genuinely invested in both their team and the community.

What I Look for in a Leader: I’m really interested in leaders who operate from a position of gratitude. We all owe something to the organizations we lead and the people we serve, and these positions are such privileges to hold. I am also looking for leaders who make things happen.

If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Fred Rogers. He created a sense of community. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m naturally shy and introverted, but professionally I’m very outgoing, engaged and comfortable leading conversations and working with a wide range of people.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Little Italy. Being almost 100% Italian, we spent lots of time there growing up, so it is like a second home. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: A host on a game show like The Price is Right, Wheel of Fortune, 25 Words or Less or Jeopardy!

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What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: When I was 24 or 25, I spent the night in jail after getting arrested at a protest. I was protesting the threatened closure of a public radio station. I was released with credit for time served. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: In the kitchen, at the gym or walking the dog

Education: Juris doctor, MBA, Case Western Reserve School of Law and Weatherhead School of Management What Success Looks Like to Me: Success for me is building a strong, sustainable organization that can continue creating opportunities for entrepreneurs, strengthening communities and driving economic growth long after any one leader is gone. I believe deeply in JumpStart’s mission, so I want to make sure that the nonprofit can remain impactful, financially strong and positioned to serve future generations. My Leadership Style: Empowerment, accountability and having fun along the way An Important Lesson I Learned: One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of accepting reality. We all face situations we didn’t choose, outcomes we don’t like and challenges we can’t control. I’ve learned that progress begins when we stop wishing things were different and start dealing with them as they are. Acceptance isn’t about giving up — it’s about gaining perspective. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outside of work, my greatest joy is spending time with family. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Flour Restaurant in Moreland Hills

LORNE NOVICK: MARIANA EDELMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Enjoying a Buckeyes, Golden Flashes, Cavaliers, Browns or Guardians game or spending time with friends at Playhouse Square or Blossom Music Center. When not doing those, spending time with family and friends here locally as well as traveling on vacation.

Favorite Quote: “America was born out of disagreement. It’s an argument. It’s an ongoing, blessed, sacred argument about what course the country should take to form that more perfect union. We argue while still making progress with our common humanity, our dignity, our unity.” — Bruce Springsteen, 5/22/26, Cleveland, Ohio

JumpStart

Richard Pogue

Erika Rudin-Luria

Of Counsel

Senior Advisor

President

Taft

Education: Law degree How I Approach My Day: I read the Plain Dealer and New York Times and then attack my to-do list.

Jones Day

Education: Juris doctor, University of Michigan; bachelor’s degree, Cornell University How I Approach My Day: With enthusiasm

Favorite Quote: “Getting old ain’t for sissies!”

What Success Looks Like to Me: Adding friendships

What Motivates Me Right Now: Keeping active and working out to stay healthy

What I Look for in a Leader: Strength

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: On the golf course

Favorite Quote: “You may fool all of the people some of the time…”

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Pier W in Lakewood

If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Sen. Jon Husted What Motivates Me Right Now: Law firm success My Leadership Style: Speak softly with a big stick What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m 98. An Important Lesson I Learned: Let the other guy get the credit. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Reading A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Union Club If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: CBS Sunday Morning

Jewish Federation of Cleveland Education: Master’s degree, Jewish Theological Seminary of America; bachelor’s degree, MSSW, Columbia University How I Approach My Day: I approach each day with a deep appreciation for those with whom I work — our volunteer leadership, donors/funders, other professionals and community partners, and an equally deep sense of determination to build a vibrant, thriving, caring community. Favorite Quote: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m highly motivated to push back against the divisive forces that are eroding our communities and connections to one another and preventing all of us from moving forward. My Leadership Style: Curious and determined, I’m a consensus builder who balances immediate needs with long-term goals. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I love to bake. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Any Mitchell’s Ice Cream If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Iron Chef (as a judge)

BACK IN BUSINESS Organ donation gives people the chance to keep showing up for their passions, their families, and their futures. One organ donor can save up to eight lives and help more than 100 others through tissue donation. Yet today, more than 1,200 men, women, and children in Northeast Ohio remain on the transplant waiting list.

SAY “YES” TO ORGAN, EYE, AND TISSUE DONATION.

LIFEBANC.ORG/LIVEON

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 39

Community Leaders

Stephen O’Bryan

Zulayka Ruiz-Barral

Baiju Shah

Interim Leader

CEO

Esperanza Inc.

Education: Master’s degree in education What I Look for in a Leader: The strongest leaders are willing to make difficult decisions, remain accountable and continuously seek ways to improve what they are leading. They create a culture of trust, growth and collaboration while empowering others to reach their full potential. Favorite Quote: “A title may give you a position, but your actions determine whether you are truly a leader.” If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I wouldn’t trade places with anyone. Every experience — the challenges, setbacks, successes and opportunities — have shaped who I am today. As a first-generation college graduate, a mother and a community leader, I am grateful for the journey that brought me here.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Lead with your heart, but don’t be naive. Compassion, empathy and genuine care for people are essential qualities of leadership, but they must be balanced with wisdom, discernment and accountability.

40 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Education: Juris doctor, Harvard University; bachelor’s degree, Yale University How I Approach My Day: I am an early riser, starting my day between 4 and 4:30 a.m., and I treasure my mornings as time to think and prepare. My routine includes caffeine (two cups of tea), reading the news, planning for the day, exercise and then off for a day of meetings, calls, presentations and usually an early evening event. Favorite Quote: “There is no limit to the amount of good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.” — Ronald Reagan What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: My first jobs included delivering phone books (paid by the book) and Domino’s pizza. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: I enjoy golfing, exploring our parks, relaxing with friends and family and traveling (49/50 states — just Mississippi left — and 37 countries so far). A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Solstice Steps at Lakewood Park for watching the sunset. In addition to the glorious view, the whole world comes together in that park.

ISTOCK: SIMONKR

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: Although my work is highly community focused and often involves being around large groups of people, I am naturally drawn to quiet spaces and moments of reflection. I love animals and find peace in nature.

Greater Cleveland Partnership

President & CEO

United Way of Greater Cleveland Education: Juris doctor and master’s degree in business administration, The Ohio State University; bachelor’s degree, Indiana University Favorite Quote: “Philanthropy is commendable, but it must not cause the philanthropist to overlook the circumstances of economic injustice which make philanthropy necessary.” — Martin Luther King Jr. What Motivates Me Right Now: The voices that come through our United Way 211 helpline every day. A mother trying to keep the lights on. A veteran choosing between groceries and medication. A caregiver who just needs a moment of support ... Hardworking people doing everything right and still struggling to get by. I feel the responsibility and possibility of those calls. It shouldn’t have to be this hard, and we can help. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: My mom and I were in law school at the same time. We were at different law schools, and she even helped me study for my first exam. She graduated a year before me and became the first lawyer in our family. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: I love supporting local chefs. Kiln is one of my top picks.

Congratulations

Sharon Sobol Jordan and All Cleveland 500 Honorees

Building Community creating a space for everyone | NCCH.ORG

Chris West, President & CEO

President & CEO

unitedwaycleveland.org clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 41

Community Leaders

Sharon Sobol Jordan

Jeremy T. Wood President & CEO

Lake Business Products Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance and marketing, Miami University What Success Looks Like to Me: Challenging ourselves and making a consistent effort to improve ourselves and those around us daily, not settling or taking the easy path; asking the hard questions. Impacting those around us — making them better and helping to provide the knowledge, means, opportunity and environment for them to succeed. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My wife or daughters — to live a day or a week in their shoes, to better understand their daily successes and challenges, gain a greater appreciation for them and be in a position to better relate, understand and support them Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: At one of my daughters’ sporting events, traveling around the region and country. When not traveling with them, I am usually playing golf, working on my to-do list or hanging out with friends.

Monte Ahuja

Chairman/Founder Transtar Industries

Matt Dolan CEO Team NEO

Lute Harmon Sr.

Chairman Great Lakes Publishing

Stephen Hoffman Chairman Mandel Foundation

Ramona Hood

Board Member Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland

Lillian Kuri

President & CEO The Cleveland Foundation

Edward Malesic

Frank C. Sullivan

Randell McShepard

Mark Swaim-Fox

Bishop Catholic Diocese of Cleveland

Vice President of Public Affairs & Chief Talent Officer RPM International

Chairman & CEO RPM International Board of Directors

President & CEO The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio

Marsha Mockabee President & CEO Urban League of Greater Cleveland

Anthony Richardson President The George Gund Foundation

Jane and Lee Seidman

Philanthropists, Founder The Motorcars Group

CON GRATS! Sarah Crupi and all of the Cleveland 500 honorees

ClevelandZooSociety.org

42 Cleveland 500 | 2026

GABE WASYLKO

Education

Education clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 43

Sunil Ahuja President

Lakeland Community College Education: Doctoral degree, University of Nebraska What I Look for in a Leader: Confidence, empathy, balance, energy and ambition Favorite Quote: “Walking is man’s best medicine.” — Hippocrates If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Sir Thomas Sean Connery What Motivates Me Right Now: Success My Leadership Style: Strategic, decisive, visionary, optimistic and inclusive What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am an avid cricket fan. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Bike riding A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Playhouse Square If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Dr. No

Marcia Ballinger President

Lorain County Community College

Michael A. Baston President & CEO

Cuyahoga Community College

Education: Doctoral degree in community college leadership; MBA

Education: Juris doctor and doctoral degree in education

How I Approach My Day: With a sense of purpose to make a difference in students’ lives

How I Approach My Day: I begin every day asking a simple question: Who will be better because I showed up today? My goal is to align purpose, people and possibility.

What Success Looks Like to Me: The smiles on the faces of the thousands of graduates who cross the finish line at commencement Favorite Quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” — Eleanor Roosevelt If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My younger self at 16 What Motivates Me Right Now: Achieving Lorain County Community College’s Thrive 2035 vision to award 35,000 more credentials/degrees to fuel our region’s talent pipeline over the next decade My Leadership Style: I don’t believe it’s one leadership style but always leading with head and heart. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: My first job was flipping hamburgers. An Important Lesson I Learned: Never fear risk. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Relaxing to jazz

Favorite Quote: “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education.” — Martin Luther King Jr. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Benjamin Mays — to witness firsthand how education, faith and leadership can shape generations What Motivates Me Right Now: Expanding opportunity for learners who have talent, ambition and dreams but need someone to help clear the path What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I learned some of my most important leadership lessons serving in church ministry and working directly with people facing life’s toughest challenges. An Important Lesson I Learned: Never confuse access with success. Opening the door matters, but helping people walk through it and thrive matters even more.

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: The Gilded Age

Laura J. Bloomberg

Todd A. Diacon

Lee Fisher

President

Cleveland State University

Kent State University

Education: Doctoral degree in educational policy and administration, University of Minnesota

Education: Doctoral degree in Latin American history, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Favorite Quote: “Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” — Voltaire

What I Look for in a Leader: Leaders must demonstrate subject matter expertise, collaborating should come naturally to them and they must excel at explaining their area to nonspecialists.

What Motivates Me Right Now: Cleveland State University as a core part of the city of Cleveland. We are Cleveland’s University, which is more than enrolling and educating students from the area. It means being in and of the city. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: My career began as a special education teacher. An Important Lesson I Learned: The classroom experience is one part of a person’s overall education. Education is about how we learn from and with one another. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: In my garden or on my kayak

If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My grandmother, who was born in the 19th century and lived to the age of 103. As a young girl and adult, she witnessed the birth of flight, the expansion of electricity into rural America — so many changes in her lifetime. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have had a paying job, without interruption, since I was 12 years old. Outside of Work, You’ll Find Me: In the Brecksville Metropark with fellow members of the NEOFIT running group A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Any of the great restaurants, bars, coffee shops and musical venues in Kent, Ohio, the 8th-ranked best college town in America

Baldwin Wallace University Education: Juris doctor, Case Western University School of Law; MNO, Case Western University Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences; bachelor’s degree, Oberlin College How I Approach My Day: I begin with the end in mind. What’s the most important thing I want to accomplish today? What Success Looks Like to Me: Always moving forward and making progress as a team — with shared purpose and shared trust What I Look for in a Leader: I look for team players with a positive attitude who are always willing to go beyond what’s expected or requested. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I love being near water, on the water and in the water. An Important Lesson I Learned: When l lost my reelection as Ohio Attorney General and my 3-year-old daughter thought it meant I wouldn’t be her daddy anymore. Your job and your title don’t define who you are. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Watching our students perform on the field and on the stage If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird

44 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Paul W. Hogle

Eric Kaler

President & CEO

President

Education: Master’s degree in arts management and graduate certificate in managing AI systems, Carnegie Mellon University; bachelor’s degree, Columbia College Chicago

Education: Bachelor’s degree in music administration, University of Evansville

Cleveland Institute of Art

What Success Looks Like to Me: Learning — always! Learning from the best moments, learning from the worst moments and upholding gratitude with an “I get to” vs. “I have to” mindset every day If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I am happy to “just” be me, but it would be fun to trade places with Carole King for a while. As a prolific songwriter and recording artist who broke the glass ceiling at a very young age — and in a very male-dominated industry — I’d love to learn from her and these experiences. What Motivates Me Right Now: The higher ed sector is going through seismic headwinds due to shifting demographics, an eroding public trust in higher education, an increased political and regulatory environment and technological disruption due to AI. However, with a sector change comes a huge opportunity to rethink and reimagine the future of what art/design college looks like, double down on our opportunities to innovate and grow our value as a creative catalyst of the regional innovation economy.

Cleveland Institute of Music

What Success Looks Like to Me: Any success I enjoy is the Institute’s success, which is, ultimately, CIM’s students winning jobs and competitions and competing for the music performance careers of their dreams. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for clarity of thinking and ability to communicate likewise, a life of integrity and a demonstrated ability to problem solve. Favorite Quote: “Do not fear failure, but be terrified of regret.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Leading CIM is like solving a 12-sided Rubik’s cube every day. What motivates me is solving that puzzle today to create the next opportunities for our students to fulfill their dreams and potential. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I played trombone in a Dixieland Band in college to offset tuition.

Case Western Reserve University Education: doctoral degree in chemical engineering, University of Minnesota; bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, California Institute of Technology How I Approach My Day: With optimism and a sense of humor What Success Looks Like to Me: Dancing at my granddaughter’s wedding. She’s 9 now. What I Look for in a Leader: Honesty, clear communication, courage and a sense of what is right Favorite Quote: “It’s hard to make predictions, especially about the future.” — Yogi Berra or Neils Bohr What Motivates Me Right Now: A strong desire for us to emerge from the current turmoil in higher education as a stronger institution My Leadership Style: My job is to get the bus, get the right people in the right seats, buy the gas and make suggestions if the bus goes the wrong way. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Little Italy

An Important Lesson I Learned: You shouldn’t take criticism from someone from whom you would not take advice. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Shaker Lakes and the VAD (Van Aken District) are really terrific spots.

SINCE 1845

Congratulations to Baldwin Wallace President Lee Fisher and all Cleveland 500 honorees. Your leadership continues to inspire us as you work to create a better world for all of us in northeast Ohio. Baldwin Wallace University • Berea, Ohio 44017 • www.bw.edu clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 45

Education

Kathryn Heidemann

Warren Morgan CEO

Cleveland Metropolitan School District Education: Fellowship for Public Education, Yale University; doctoral degree, University of IllinoisChicago; MEd., University of Missouri-St. Louis; bachelor’s degree, Butler University What I Look for in a Leader: Humility, adaptability, receptive to feedback, data driven, goal-oriented and values-based leadership Favorite Quote: “It always seems impossible, until it’s done.” — Nelson Mandela What Motivates Me Right Now: My family and personal growth in my faith always motivate me. Challenges also motivate me, because challenges are a reminder that there is always more work to be done. Sometimes opposition can mean you’re advocating and pushing for the right level of change — change that is necessary and that creates long-term improvements. If everyone is happy, you might not be pushing hard enough. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am shy and an introvert. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: My family once auditioned for Family Feud and made it to the final round of auditions, but we did not make the show. I would love to be on Family Feud!

Carolyn Noll Sorg President

John Carroll University Education: MFA, Miami University; master’s degree, Columbia University Favorite Quote: “Do good and do it well.” I traveled to Lima, Peru, this spring with a group of Jesuit university leaders where I met Sr. Patricia McLaughlin, S.L. Twenty years ago, Sr. Patricia moved to Peru to open a school in one of Lima’s poorest neighborhoods. What started with desks made from overturned cardboard boxes has grown into an incredible institution that inspires young minds. Sr. Patricia’s motto for the school is “do good and do it well.” What Motivates Me Right Now: The sacrifices of my parents and grandparents — a boiler operator, a nurse, a mechanic and a bus driver — whose hard work gave my brother and me the gift of education What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I hold an MFA in experience design, a degree you don’t see on many college presidents’ resumes. I view university leadership through that design lens, specifically applying the principles of Radical Hospitality — the focus of my thesis — to our work at John Carroll. I’ve always believed that you can, and should, design the student experience with the same level of intention and care you would apply to any piece of art or human-centered project, shaping how we think about every touchpoint at JCU.

Megan O’Bryan President, Tri-C Foundation & Vice President, Development Cuyahoga Community College Education: Case Western Reserve University What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m motivated by the opportunity to help more students persist, graduate and build lives of stability and purpose. We’re especially focused now on how philanthropy can remove real-life barriers — like food, housing, childcare and transportation — that too often stand between students and their goals. If Tri-C students succeed, Northeast Ohio is a stronger and more vibrant place for everyone. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I recently became a board-certified health and wellness coach. I am fascinated by the connection between well-being and career success. An Important Lesson I Learned: Throughout my career I’ve learned that relationships are everything. Strategy matters, talent matters and execution matters, but trust is what allows meaningful work to happen, especially when things are complex or difficult. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I’d be Leslie Knope in Parks and Recreation. She’s very enthusiastic, deeply loyal to her community and always trying to make things a little better.

Marcia J. Ballinger, Ph.D. On behalf of the District Board of Trustees and the LCCC Foundation’s Board of Directors, congratulations on 10 years of impact and service as LCCC’s President.

46 Cleveland 500 | 2026

CEO

Cuyahoga County Public Library Education: Master’s degree in library and information science, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; bachelor’s degree in history/African studies, University of Northern Colorado How I Approach My Day: With ease and gratitude What Success Looks Like to Me: Watching the people within my sphere of influence succeed What I Look for in a Leader: I look for humility and grace. Favorite Quote: “Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” (Psalm 37:4) My Leadership Style: Visionary What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have lived in every region of the United States and 10 states. An Important Lesson I Learned: Always put others first. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Lounging in Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, eating a lobster roll A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Doc’s on Harvard Restaurant & Lounge — it has such great history.

Paul Rose Dean and Professor of Law

Case Western Reserve University School of Law

Michele Scott Taylor President & CEO College Now

Education: Juris doctor, UCLA School of Law; bachelor’s degree, Brigham Young University

Education: University of Pittsburgh; Kent State University; University of Akron

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success to me is our students and faculty having the best possible opportunities for their own careers. I want to help people reach goals they once thought were out of reach, and I want to strengthen an institution that will continue to create opportunities long after I step away from being dean.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Creating sustainable impact, opening doors for others and leaving systems better than I found them

What I Look for in a Leader: Humility, integrity and the ability to bring people together around a shared mission What Motivates Me Right Now: Building momentum by improving outcomes for students, expanding opportunities and creating an institution that becomes stronger and more influential for the next generation My Leadership Style: Student centered, collaborative and data informed. I try to set a clear vision, empower talented people and focus relentlessly on outcomes without losing sight of culture and community. An Important Lesson I Learned: One of my mentors taught me to always assume good intentions and to not burn bridges. I also believe that you should take people as you find them and not as you wish they were.

Favorite Quote: “We lift as we climb.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Expanding opportunity through mentoring, strengthening community and ensuring the next generation has access to pathways I didn’t My Leadership Style: Collaborative, mission driven and people centered, with a focus on results and accountability What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I value quiet reflection as much as I do public leadership — it’s where many of my best ideas take shape. An Important Lesson I Learned: You can’t do meaningful work alone — success is built through relationships, trust and shared vision. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with family, supporting community initiatives and organizations, skating and reading

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clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 47

Education

Jamar O. Rahming

Steve Stevenson Senior Vice President & Executive Director City Year Cleveland

Education: Bachelor’s degree in education, Point Park University What Success Looks Like to Me: Success to me is about growth, impact and the ability to influence the lives of others every day positively. It is not measured only by accomplishments or titles, but by the relationships built, the communities strengthened and the opportunities created for people to thrive. What I Look for in a Leader: Great leaders create environments where people feel valued, heard and empowered to succeed. They understand that leadership is not about control or titles, but about service, accountability and building strong relationships. My Leadership Style: My leadership style is rooted in the Leadership Compass framework and reflects a balance of all four directions — North, South, East and West. I believe effective leadership requires the ability to adapt, connect, inspire and execute depending on the needs of the people, team or situation.

Felton Thomas Jr. Executive Director & CEO Cleveland Public Library

Education: Master’s degree in library science, University of Hawaii; bachelor’s degree in psychology, University of Nevada-Las Vegas What I Look for in a Leader: I look for someone who shows up every day with the same dependability, integrity and respectful nature. Favorite Quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” ― Oscar Wilde What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m motivated every day to make sure that the residents of Cleveland have access to the most inclusive arts and culture institution in Cleveland. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: People would be surprised to know that I was a drummer in a heavy metal band in college. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I’d love to be Bruce Lee in Enter the Dragon.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: For some truly good barbecue, check out Sweet Pork Wilson’s — amazing food, great flavor and definitely a spot worth supporting.

Congratulations President Sunil Ahuja, Ph.D. on being named one of THE CLEVELAND 500 Thank you for two years of leadership and forward-thinking vision for Lakeland Community College

48 Cleveland 500 | 2026

John Langell

President Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED)

Robert Nemer

President University of Akron

Shari Obrenski

President Cleveland Teachers Union

Mary B. Outley

Superintendent Akron Public Schools

Emma Parker

CEO Center for Arts-Inspired Learning

Carmen Twillie Ambar President Oberlin College

Entertainment, Hospitality & Leisure

GABE LEIDY

Entertainment, Hospitality & Leisure clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 49

Koby Altman President of Basketball Operations Cleveland Cavaliers

Education: Master’s degree in sports management, Isenberg School of Management, UMASS-Amherst; bachelor’s degree in sociology, Middlebury College What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is achieving meaningful results through a focused strategy while building a championship-caliber organization. It’s equally about maintaining and strengthening the culture that makes long-term success possible. What I Look for in a Leader: I value leaders who are confident, knowledgeable and committed to helping others succeed. They lead with integrity, make informed decisions and put the organization’s success ahead of their own. What Motivates Me Right Now: Winning another NBA Championship

Warren Anderson

Nic Barlage

Owner & CEO

CEO

The Anderson-DuBose Co.

Rock Entertainment Group

Education: Master’s degree, University of Michigan

Education: Saint John’s University

How I Approach My Day: With a sense of exploration

What Success Looks Like to Me: Everything we do starts with prioritizing the communities we serve. Our fans, residents and stakeholders are the ultimate judges of our success. We are obsessed with winning in everything we pursue, and that obsession will always be founded in what will create the greatest outcome for our communities and fans.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Being able to work with others positively What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who can give direction Favorite Quote: “I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.” — Invictus If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I wouldn’t. I just want to be me. What Motivates Me Right Now: Gratefulness My Leadership Style: Caring but firm What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I lived all over the world when I was a child. An Important Lesson I Learned: Do the right thing. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Boating, when possible A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Playhouse Square If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Batman

Favorite Quote: “Look at things in life for the opportunity they create, not the challenge they present.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Making sure our team members continue to be immersed in a vibrant culture built on our mission, vision, values and ISMs, and continuing to establish Cleveland as a destination that competes with any city in the world. We want to create the best experientially driven Downtown and help redefine who we are as a city and a region. An Important Lesson I Learned: Leadership is a privilege. Never take these opportunities for granted. You need to earn these opportunities every day. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Van Aken Market Hall and Little Italy If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: James Bond

John Bibbo

Kevin Brady

Matthew Cole

President

General Manager

Owner & Brewmaster

Education: The rental industry

Education: Master’s degree in business administration, Lindenwood University

Event Source

How I Approach My Day: I focus on three priorities: people, clients and future growth. I try to balance urgency with perspective. Not everything that is urgent is important, and not everything important feels urgent. What Success Looks Like to Me: At the end of the day, I measure success by one question: Did we move the organization forward? What I Look for in a Leader: I look for leaders who take ownership, solve problems and develop people. Skills can be taught. Character, accountability and the willingness to put the team first are much harder to find. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I’d trade places with Walt Disney. He had an incredible ability to take ideas that existed only in his imagination and turn them into experiences that created lasting memories for millions of people. An Important Lesson I Learned: You can have the best strategy in the world, but if you don’t have the right people and culture, it won’t matter. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: On a golf course, in an airport, in a great restaurant or spending time with my family 50 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Northfield Park Racino

What I Look for in a Leader: Integrity, self-awareness, empathy and a competitive nature Favorite Quote: “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” What Motivates Me Right Now: We are following two tremendous casino operators and employers in Hard Rock and MGM with a very high bar of success to leap over. I want to fly over that bar and have our team members and guests say that our racino is the best in Ohio.

Fat Head’s Brewery

Education: Bachelor’s degree, University of Pittsburgh; Siebel Institute of Brewing Science; University of Sunderland, U.K., Brew Lab What I Look for in a Leader: Confidence, pride, strong work ethic, trustworthiness, passion, integrity, transparency and excellent communication skills Favorite Quote: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” My Leadership Style: I have learned not to micromanage and believe in empowering employees to do their jobs independently.

My Leadership Style: I try to spend 50% of my day walking the gaming floor and chatting with team members and guests. This is the best way to get feedback on what is working and what is not working.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I spent 30 days in Napoli, Italy, attending a comprehensive pizzaiolo (pizza maker) training program, taught by Enzo Coccia, one of the world’s most celebrated pizza chefs.

What Would Surprise Somone to Learn About Me: I have bungee jumped three times and would never do it again.

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I have always dreamed of being on the game show Press Your Luck, because I hate whammies and I love big bucks!

An Important Lesson I Learned: God gave us two ears and one mouth and having the ability to listen with empathy and being receptive to feedback, good or bad, is a valuable life’s lesson.

Paul Corto

Sarah Crupi

President

President & Partner

CEO

Beverage Distributors Education: MBA, Case Western Reserve University; bachelor’s degree, Georgetown University How I Approach My Day: I highlight three things I need to get done by the end of the day. I will do plenty of tasks throughout the day, but if I can accomplish the three items I deemed most important that day, then I had a great day. What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is putting my family and my colleagues at work in a comfortable and happy position. I want all of those around me to enjoy each day and be happy with what they are doing in life and work. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for a leader who is willing to do anything he is asking others to do. Favorite Quote: “I don’t want ‘yes’ people around me. I want everyone to tell the truth, even if it costs them their jobs.” — Samuel Goldwyn What Motivates Me Right Now: I am highly motivated by my wife and kids. I want them to love each day and work hard for what they want to accomplish.

Market Garden Brewery

The Cleveland Zoological Society

Education: Ohio Wesleyan University

Education: Ohio University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Developing people is the greatest measurement of success. You are not a true success unless you are helping others be successful.

How I Approach My Day: Each night I try to visualize the next day — where I’m driving, what meetings I have, who I’m going to be with, what my sons are doing after school and what events I’m attending. It helps me mentally prepare so I can wake up feeling focused on what I have to accomplish at work and home.

What I Look for in a Leader: You win with people! My primary focus is on culture. Empowering your team to lead builds long-term success. Favorite Quote: “Be the leader you wish you had.” — Simon Sinek If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My wife! Raleigh is the rock that provides stability every day with our family. I could not manage multiple businesses without her help, support and guidance. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I own multiple businesses: Spiders Lacrosse Club, BTG (National Lacrosse Team) and Midwest Lacrosse Showcase (Lacrosse Tournament). I am also an assistant lacrosse coach at St. Ignatius High School.

What I Look for in a Leader: Transparency, strong communication and a commitment to taking a step back and seeing how a decision will affect the whole organization and the team. A leader should constantly be able to see the whole picture and whether an effort is moving the organization forward with success. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My son, going to college for the first time this fall. College brought me my career and friends for life. My Leadership Style: Collaborative, kind, transparent and intentional — at least I hope that’s what others see, because I try hard to live these qualities.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Never take a job for money! Enjoy what you do and work with people you love working with. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: The Sopranos

Congratulations to our President, Corey Head, for being named to the Cleveland 500. Your leadership, discipline and attitude inspire all of us at Sky Quest!

Congratulations and well deserved!

COREY HEAD, President FlySkyQuest.com 216-362-9904 Charter@FlySkyQuest.com

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 51

Entertainment, Hospitality & Leisure

Mike Conway

Linda Ekey

Helen Forbes Fields

Managing Partner

President & CEO

Hospitality Restaurants Education: Completed extensive coursework in my field What Success Looks Like to Me: Continuing to build on the foundation of Hospitality Restaurants. Helping others succeed looks like success. We are very proud of the fact that there is work-life balance for each and every team member. What I Look for in a Leader: Character, humility and accountability, as well as good communication skills with the ability to engage in a positive manner What Motivates Me Right Now: As a new owner in a longstanding Northeast Ohio staple, everything motivates me. My Leadership Style: Direct. If I cannot clearly explain my expectations, how are you going to understand what success for you looks like?

YWCA Greater Cleveland Education: Juris doctor, Howard University School of Law; bachelor’s degree, Spelman College; The Ohio State University How I Approach My Day: Filled with gratitude to represent the YWCA Greater Cleveland, which has existed in this community since 1868 What Success Looks Like to Me: Moving our shelter guests from homeless to housed to higher

David Gilbert CEO

Destination Cleveland and Greater Cleveland Sports Commission Education: MBA, Cleveland State University; bachelor’s degree, The Ohio State University How I Approach My Day: Early is key — it is my most clear-headed time. Morning workout followed by an hour or more to clear e-mails and follow-ups, prepare for meetings and strategize on the day ahead. It is then easy to feel confident that a lot can get accomplished.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Change is good.

What I Look for in a Leader: I like people who are good listeners, able to synthesize many variables in working to determine the answer to a problem, yet also decisive in a conclusion and action. In advancing an initiative, the how is often more important than the what. Other key traits: determined, resourceful and passionate.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Any gallery located at the Cleveland Museum of Art

My Leadership Style: Find great people and let them do remarkable things.

What Motivates Me Right Now: To make sure the YWCA Greater Cleveland remains a stable organization and exists another 150 years

An Important Lesson I Learned: It is fine to take risks and fail. But you must learn from it and let it motivate you for the next success.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I like to visit Alaska; I’ve been there seven times. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: With friends or family sharing a glass of wine, gardening, golfing, in my kitchen or volunteering at the Fairview Park Community Garden

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outdoors, active and being with family A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Edgewater Park, Cent’s Pizza on Lorain Avenue and Downtown Chagrin Falls

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Top of the Terminal Tower

Megan Gillum

Keisha Gonzalez

Larry Goodman

President & CEO

Executive Director & CEO

President & CEO

Malley’s Chocolates

LAND studio

Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business process management, Indiana University Kelley School of Business

Education: Master’s degree in historic preservation, University of Delaware; bachelor’s degree in anthropology, Cleveland State University

What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m motivated by the responsibility of stewarding a 91-year-old brand while helping write its next chapter. Just as motivating are the “Malley’s Moments” we hear about every day. They are stories of traditions, celebrations and memories that involve our products. Knowing that our products help create moments of joy is something that never stops motivating me.

What Motivates Me Right Now: The opportunity to help shape how Cleveland evolves during a period of significant leadership and civic transition. I’m energized to align creativity, public space and community voice in ways that expand belonging, dignity and civic connection.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m a certified Enneagram coach and love exploring personality, motivation and what helps individuals and teams thrive. An Important Lesson I Learned: Clear is kind. Earlier in my career, I sometimes hesitated to give direct feedback because it felt unkind. But over time, I realized something important: Avoiding clarity isn’t kind. The best leaders care deeply about people and hold them accountable. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: I’d highly recommend taking in a sunset at either Rocky River Park or Bradstreet’s Landing. The views are spectacular, and my favorite way to experience them is from a paddle board on the water. 52 Cleveland 500 | 2026

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m deeply driven by curiosity and wanderlust. I thrive exploring and experiencing how communities shape identity and belonging and find inspiration in the ways people create meaning through food, art, architecture and public life. An Important Lesson I Learned: We have to outgrow what feels familiar, seek new environments and perspectives and remain open to the discomfort that often accompanies meaningful growth. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Training for random athletic challenges. I recently completed my first bodybuilding show. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Clark-Fulton during the Puerto Rican parade

Cleveland Ballet

Education: AM and doctoral degree, University of Chicago; bachelor’s degree, Bucknell University What Success Looks Like to Me: Success for me means that I have left the organization I am leading better, healthier and more robust than it was when I began working there. And it means that the organization has improved me as well. Favorite Quote: I find the following two quotes work well together: “I’d rather be lucky than good” and “The harder I work, the luckier I get.” If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Probably my dog. Boy, does he have the life! My Leadership Style: Unabashed enthusiasm, tempered with the knowledge that I have so much to learn. Above all, people need to be both listened to and heard. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am somewhat of a Supreme Court nerd — I read everything I can find about the court and its history. An Important Lesson I Learned: When you talk more than you listen, people tend to tune you out. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Smoking a cigar on my rooftop deck in Tremont

Jeff Heinen

Thomas J. Heinen

Co-President

Heinen’s

Owner

LDJ Consulting LLC, Interim Executive Director of North Union Farmers Market

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Stanford University

Education: BSBA, Bucknell University

Education: MSSA, Case Western Reserve University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Having an organization in which people enjoy coming to work each day and going home feeling good about what they accomplished that day

How I Approach My Day: I approach every day as a brand-new day full of possibilities.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is one of those words I’ve come to associate with the true riches of life; not wealth, but relationships. Healthy, meaningful connections with family, friends, colleagues and others anchor me and fuel my passion for work that genuinely matters.

What I Look for in a Leader: Being a self-leader, being a good listener, being empathetic and understanding your people drive any success your organization enjoys. Favorite Quote: “Everybody wants to win, but few people are willing to make the commitment to prepare to win.” — Vince Lombardi

What Success Looks Like to Me: Goal achievement and team satisfaction What I Look for in a Leader: Inspirational leader with deep caring for their team Favorite Quote: “Born at night, not last night.” If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Scott Scheffler What Motivates Me Right Now: My faith My Leadership Style: Inspirational What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I love Hallmark Christmas movies. An Important Lesson I Learned: Sometimes it is better to just listen. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: With my two dogs A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: John Wick

Douglas Katz Chef/Founder & Partner Edgewater Hospitality

Education: The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, New York; bachelor’s degree in business administration, University of Denver What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is having the freedom to do work I love with people I respect. It’s building businesses that create opportunities for others, nurturing meaningful relationships and still making time for family, friends, travel and personal growth. What I Look for in a Leader: Authenticity, curiosity and accountability. The best leaders aren’t afraid to listen, learn and admit when they don’t have all the answers. What Motivates Me Right Now: Creating. Whether it’s a new restaurant concept, mentoring someone on my team, planning a trip or designing a menu, I am energized by learning and bringing ideas to life. My Leadership Style: Collaborative and supportive An Important Lesson I Learned: You can’t control outcomes, but you can control your effort, your attitude and how you show up for others. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Cleveland Museum of Art. It’s one of Cleveland’s greatest treasures.

Sam McNulty Co-Founder

Market Garden Brewery & Ohio City Hospitality Group Education: Planning, design and real estate development, Cleveland State University What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I delivered four newspapers (Plain Dealer, Wall Street Journal, New York Times and Sun Press) from the age of 11 until I was 21 years old. The running joke with my six siblings and friends was that I went from being a “paper boy” to a “paper man!” An Important Lesson I Learned: Leading with kindness makes our world better and happier for all. And, my dad would often say that “comparison is the thief of joy,” and he was right on that one. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: My wife Ciara and I love living in Cleveland as if we’re tourists and travelling the world like locals. In Cleveland, we’re very likely to be found “forest bathing” with our dog Jasper in forested green space, streams and lakes near and far. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Walking the Redline Greenway up and down to the Cuyahoga River. I’m so excited to have the Irishtown Bend Park open up next year connecting Ohio City to Whiskey Island and the lakefront beaches and parks.

Favorite Quote: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” — Martin Luther King Jr. What Motivates Me Right Now: There is something deeply satisfying about helping a nonprofit sharpen its focus and more powerfully fulfill its purpose. The remarkable range of organizations I work with, the breadth of services I provide and the passionate, creative people I meet along the way make this work endlessly invigorating. My Leadership Style: I lead collaboratively and inclusively, genuinely believing that diverse perspectives — shaped by different life experiences — make us collectively smarter. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Being creative. Writing, painting and gardening feed something in me that work alone cannot. They slow me down, reconnect me to myself and remind me that beauty is worth making.

Rosemary Mudry Executive Director

Cleveland Public Market Corp. Education: Master’s degree in urban planning, design and development, Cleveland State University; bachelor’s degree in politics and Latin American studies, Oberlin College What I Look for in a Leader: Adaptability, critical thinking, ability to learn quickly, curiosity and a willingness to be honest and provide candid feedback What Motivates Me Right Now: The endless possibilities for ways West Side Market can make an impact when we finish the Transformation Project is so exciting. Knowing the magic of all the possibilities makes even challenging days feel worth it. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I really enjoy Valentine’s Day. I love the opportunity to tell the people in my life I love them with sweet treats. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outside as much as possible — taking a walk, gardening or hanging out on the front porch A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Lake View Cemetery is an amazing asset showcasing Cleveland’s history along with beautiful architecture and trees that date back to the founding of our city.

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Entertainment, Hospitality & Leisure

Linda D. Johanek

Michael Schwartz CEO & Lead Design

Forward Hospitality Group Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance, Bowling Green State University How I Approach My Day: I focus on the handful of decisions and actions that can make the biggest difference rather than getting buried in busy work. What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is having a healthy balance between family, friends, work and personal growth. It’s making a positive impact on others while continuing to learn, improve and appreciate the blessings and moments that make life meaningful. What Motivates Me Right Now: More than building the next business or opening the next location, I’m motivated by helping people grow and becoming a better leader myself. An Important Lesson I Learned: The people matter more than the idea. Great people can save an average idea. Average people can ruin a great one. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Flats East Bank on a summer night. There’s nothing quite like seeing Cleveland come alive along the river. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I’d love to be a coach in a modern-day sports story about giving underprivileged, motivated kids an opportunity they might not otherwise have.

Stephanie Siegel Executive Director Ashtabula County Visitors Bureau

Neil Stein Executive Director Tour Lake County

Education: John Carroll University

Education: Baldwin Wallace University

How I Approach My Day: In the tourism industry, we balance play with professionalism. I intentionally pace my chaotic calendar so that each task gets the attention it deserves and a work/life balance can fuel me for tomorrow.

Favorite Quote: “Any task worth doing is worth doing right.”

What I Look for in a Leader: I look for authentic leaders who engage, inspire, adapt and seek out tomorrow’s ideas. Longevity does not equal leadership. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My dog My Leadership Style: Roll up your sleeves and lead by example while treating others as you want to be treated. Recognize when paradigms should be upheld and when they should be broken. An Important Lesson I Learned: A clearly defined mission helps a team to confidently stay on track and work efficiently. Trying to please everyone will never get the best end result. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Ohio Wine Country — over 30 wineries with rolling vineyards and live music transport you.

My Leadership Style: Offer solutions — don’t just point out problems. When I see problems that need to be solved in our community that I think Tour Lake County can help with, I reach out to those organizations to talk about how we can help come up with a solution. I want my staff to do the same thing internally. These proposed solutions aren’t always perfect, but it’s a starting point for a discussion and helps move toward a quicker resolution of the issue at hand. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Coaching baseball at Lake Catholic High School, officiating high school football games or enjoying a glass of wine and listening to live music at one of the 30-plus wineries in the Grand River Valley A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Vincent William Wine, a new winery, restaurant and boutique hotel located on Lake Erie with the most breathtaking view and best sunsets anywhere If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Ted Lasso

Jon A. Steinbrecher

Ted Swaldo

Sean Watterson

Commissioner

Founder

Co-Owner

Mid-American Conference Education: Doctoral degree in physical education, Indiana University; master’s degree in sports administration, Ohio University; bachelor’s degree in journalism and physical education, Valparaiso University How I Approach My Day: I begin with exercise and quiet contemplation and reflection. I focus on tasks that must be accomplished that day and ask myself, “what am I doing to make a difference?” Favorite Quote: “I will study and prepare myself, and someday the chance will come.” — Abraham Lincoln What Motivates Me Right Now: My concern that as an enterprise, intercollegiate athletics at the Division I level is losing its focus on its role within higher education What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I make an exceptional Thanksgiving dinner (turkey, ham, gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, corn, peas and onions, stuffing, rolls, apple crisp and pecan pie). Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Exercising, cooking and reading A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Jogging through Downtown Cleveland on a quiet Saturday/Sunday morning 54 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa Education: Tri State College What I Look for in a Leader: A good leader must practice my five C’s: Competent — through education and/or experience; Communicator — they must be able to share their ideas and plans with others efficiently; Committed — must be fully involved in what they are doing; Confident — they must not be afraid to fail; Caring — they need to care about their family, the company and its products, our customers and their fellow workers.

The Happy Dog Education: Juris doctor, Case Western Reserve University School of Law; bachelor’s degree, Williams College How I Approach My Day: I wear a lot of hats, but all music and live entertainment related. On the business side, it’s Happy Dog, or D Tour — a national collaborative of independent venues and promoters I co-founded. On the advocacy side, it’s the National Independent Venue Association, NIVA’s Ohio chapter or the Cleveland Independent Venue Association.

What Motivates Me Right Now: Watching my children and grandchildren grow and take on more responsibilities. They are doing a better job than me!

What Success Looks Like to Me: A happy team that feels comfortable using their creativity to make life inside and outside of work better

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have no musical ability but was able to develop one of the best Drum & Bugle Corps in the world, which has been world champion twice in last five years.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I was a lawyer at the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Office of International Affairs, working on anti-money laundering and counterterrorism financing before moving back home to do the Happy Dog.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Things are never as good as they may seem or as bad as they seem. I always take the middle-of-the-road approach. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: It would be a movie about automobile racing, and I would be the championship driver.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: In the vegetable garden, getting outwitted by rabbits A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: I’m partial to the Happy Dog, but we have a bunch of great independent, locally owned live music and comedy venues around town.

Rocco Whalen

Brian M. Zimmerman

Proprietor, Cordelia + ROSY

Chef/Owner

CEO

Education: Pittsburgh Culinary and the School of Hard Knocks

Education: Bachelor’s degree, University of Wisconsin-Madison

How I Approach My Day: With positive intent

How I Approach My Day: With purpose. Every day is an opportunity to advance our mission, support our team and ensure Cleveland Metroparks continues to serve as a source of pride and connection for our region.

Midwest Nice Hospitality Education: High School

What Success Looks Like to Me: Proving you can accomplish anything you dream right here, leaving this place significantly better than you found it and empowering folks to do meaningful, soulfulfilling work What I Look for in a Leader: Being the example of positivity and relentless “where there’s a will there’s a way” attitude Favorite Quote: “Don’t argue with fools; folks from afar can’t tell who’s who.” — Jay-Z What Motivates Me Right Now: Our team. They are such talented, deeply caring, passionate, hardworking and community-minded folks. There is nothing they can’t accomplish with the right support and platform. We’re just getting started. My Leadership Style: Put the right people in the right places. Trust, support and mentor them, but get out of the way. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I was raised by two pastors.

Fahrenheit

What Success Looks Like to Me: A clear conscience and protecting my peace What I Look for in a Leader: Honesty, humor, humility and humanity Favorite Quote: “When people show you who they are, believe them.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Helping the next generation of restaurant professionals achieve their dreams My Leadership Style: Firm, fair and consistent What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have an extra tooth! An Important Lesson I Learned: Little in life results as we plan. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Boxing or enjoying time with my family and friends A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: La Petite Fleur Co.

Cleveland Metroparks

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is creating lasting impact. As a 108-year-old organization, we’re continuing a legacy established over a century ago. We have to be as forward looking in our planning and opportunities to ensure the steps we make today create a trail forward for tomorrow. What Motivates Me Right Now: The opportunity to shape the next century of Cleveland Metroparks My Leadership Style: Collaborative and mission driven. I believe the best ideas come from empowered teams working together toward a common goal. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The new Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center redefines access to our lakefront, inviting guests to take in sweeping Lake Erie sunsets, dine along the water year-round at The Galley, learn to sail, get out on the water and much more — a testament to the power of partnerships.

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 55

Entertainment, Hospitality & Leisure

Andrew Watts

Bret Adams

Dan Conway

Chris Antonetti

Patrick Conway

Founder Monven Group President of Baseball Operations Cleveland Guardians

Chad Barnhill

Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer JACK Entertainment

Jason Beudert Founder & CEO Hangry Brands

John Bonner

CEO, Co-Founder and Head Grower Great Lakes Growers

Mike Campo

General Manager Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland

Brandon Chrostowski Founder, CEO & Owner EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute

Co-Owner Great Lakes Brewing Co. Co-Owner Great Lakes Brewing Co.

Sam Covelli

President & CEO Covelli Enterprises

Bob DiBiasio

Barry Gabel

SVP Marketing and Sponsorship Sales Live Nation

Dan Gilbert

Majority Owner Cleveland Cavaliers

Marc Glassman Chairman & CEO Marc’s

Senior Vice President, Public Affairs Cleveland Guardians

Dee Haslam

Paul Dolan

Jim Haslam

Part-Owner, Chairman & CEO Cleveland Guardians

Owner Cleveland Browns Owner Cleveland Browns

Mary Jo Ferrante

Whitney Haslam Johnson

Eric Flatt

Chris Hodgson

Manager/Owner Ferrante Winery

Operations Manager, Cleveland Heidelberg Distributing Co.

Managing Partner Haslam Sports Group Partner The Driftwood Group

Daniel Holan

President & CEO Orlando Baking Co.

Congratulations,

TO ALL CLEVELAND 500 HONOREES AND TO OUR GENERAL MANAGER,

KEVIN BRADY.

With a people-first approach, President and General Manager Kevin Brady is committed to supporting team members, delivering exceptional

experiences for guests and strengthening community connections.

Must be 21 years or older. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. For free confidential help 24/7, call the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-589-9966 or visit org.ohio.gov.

56 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Will Hollingsworth Founder & CEO Buildings and Food

JW Johnson

Managing Partner Haslam Sports Group

Tom Leneghan

President & Founder Barrio Restaurant Corp.

Gregg Mervis

President & CEO Akron/Summit Convention and Visitors Bureau

Lisa Petit

Superintendent Cuyahoga Valley National Park

John Reilly

President & CEO Six Flags Entertainment Corp.

Daniel Saltzman

President Dave’s Supermarkets

Bob Sarver

President & CEO Great Lakes Cheese

Joseph Miceli

Kathy Shimer

Mike Mitchell

Tom Sirna

CEO Miceli Dairy

Co-Owner Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream

Kaitie Nickel

Founder & Managing Partner Cleveland Vibes

Executive Director Destination Geauga Owner and President Sirna & Sons Produce

Jim Stouffer Jr.

President Lake Erie Foundation

Government

GABE WASYLKO

Government

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 57

India L. Birdsong Terry

David Brock

Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority

Cuyahoga County Democratic Party

General Manager & CEO

Education: Master’s degree in urban planning and policy, University of Illinois at Chicago; bachelor’s degree in English, Temple University What I Look for in a Leader: Leadership is defined by one’s ability to translate, empathize and innovate. Over time, it has become more and more apparent to me that lasting success is an amalgamation of bumps and bruises, peppered with peaks of accomplishment, experienced by a team. Leaders don’t show up by themselves, so they shouldn’t show up to gather the award solo either. Both success and leadership are team sports. Favorite Quote: “You’re only as good as your last rush hour.” An Important Lesson I Learned: Listen, and listen again … I strive every day to maintain the professional integrity of trying to do right by those who depend on our buses and trains the most. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outside of work you’ll see me in casual clothing, likely running to or from a ballet class or little league baseball game. Once the CEO hat comes off, the family uniform is put on with pride. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: The Gilded Age

Kyle Dreyfuss-Wells CEO

Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District Education: Master’s degrees in environmental science and public affairs, Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs; bachelor’s degree in ecology, The Ohio State University What Success Looks Like to Me: Success means delivering meaningful results while building trust along the way. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for leaders who are accountable, collaborative and willing to listen. Strong leaders create clarity during uncertainty, support their teams and lead with integrity and a sense of urgency. I also value people who are adaptable and solution oriented — individuals who can bring people together, communicate effectively and maintain focus on the mission, even when challenges arise. My Leadership Style: My leadership style is collaborative, transparent and mission driven. An Important Lesson I Learned: One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that leadership is less about having all the answers and more about surrounding yourself with talented people and creating an environment where they can succeed. Some of the best decisions come from listening to a range of perspectives, especially during challenging situations.

58 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Chair

Education: Master’s degree How I Approach My Day: Prioritization. It’s important in this position, with the number of crises and opportunities that emerge every day, that dealing with them be done in order of the most humane and/or political importance. Favorite Quote: “To whom much has been given, much will be required.” — St. Luke If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Jake Diebler, Ohio State University basketball coach What Motivates Me Right Now: Working together with a vast array of different people to find solutions to actual problems, not fabricated ones that are meant to scare the average voter. Working together as a team to improve the voter turnout in this city and county and lift up the lives of the many who have been ignored far too long. An Important Lesson I Learned: Criticisms or condemnations of fellow Democrats should not be done publicly. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Watching a movie A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Caffe Roma — incredible Italian restaurant with the best homemade salad dressings

Renato Camacho President & CEO

Akron-Canton Airport Education: Master’s degree in transportation planning and engineering; bachelor’s degree in civil engineering How I Approach My Day: Each day focuses on priorities that will drive the greatest impact — especially those that allow for growth and create new opportunities. The use of technology and innovation is always at the forefront, proactively challenging assumptions and looking for better ways to move the business forward. What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is achieving sustained growth while staying true to our guiding principles. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I played a Puerto Rican percussion instrument known as a güiro with my dad and brothers in The Bronx as a kid. My dad composed songs and we would go on “parrandas” (Christmas caroling) during the holidays. An Important Lesson I Learned: I worked for the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey from 1993-2007, which owned and operated the World Trade Center. After 9/11, a harsh reminder to cherish your family and friends always. I lost many colleagues that day. I’m always grateful to have played a small part in the rebuilding of the current World Trade Center site.

Jeff Epstein

Bryant L. Francis

President & CEO

Director of Port Control

Port of Cleveland

Education: Juris doctor, Georgetown University Law Center; bachelor’s degree in public policy studies, Duke University What Motivates Me Right Now: We are in an exciting moment in Cleveland’s history, with so much alignment around transformative projects that can help catalyze growth in our region for decades to come. I am motivated by the opportunity to help shape a better future for Clevelanders through the work we do here at the Port and in collaboration with leaders across the community. My Leadership Style: Collaborative with a focus on empowering teammates to be the best versions of themselves. I try to build a supportive team environment where we can take risks, learn from failures or setbacks and have honest conversations to move the organization and team forward. An Important Lesson I Learned: We all make mistakes, and pointing fingers in blame isn’t the productive response as a manager — it is figuring out how we fix the mistake and learn from them going forward. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: North Coast Yard, a great way to be on the lake and interact with a pop-up space that is truly world class

City of Cleveland

Education: Bachelor’s degree in aviation management What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is about personal growth, taking time to enjoy special moments, always learning and improving through that greater knowledge and making a difference along the way that will have a lasting impact. Favorite Quote: “The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance. The wise grows it under his feet.” — James Oppenheim What Motivates Me Right Now: With so much momentum building around CLEvolution, our multiyear Terminal Modernization Development Program, I am more motivated than ever to transform our plans into reality. My Leadership Style: My leadership style is democratic, as I value the thoughts of my management team, but also situational because my approach may require flexing depending upon the matter at hand. An Important Lesson I Learned: When doing work or making a decision that will not please everyone, remember never to take responses or reactions personally. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: The Amazing Race

CEO

ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County Education: Master’s degree in education/community counseling, Kent State University; bachelor’s degree in psychology, Ohio University How I Approach My Day: I try to keep the direction clear and the culture light. I start by focusing on what actually needs action, not just motion. I look at the issues and then try to remove the barriers so the team can move forward. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for leaders who are steady when everyone else is panicking. Leadership is not about having all the answers; it is about setting direction, building trust and making sure people know where they stand.

Rick Manoloff Director of Law

Cuyahoga County

CEO & Safety Director Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority

Education: Harvard University; bachelor’s degree, Princeton University

Education: MBA, Baldwin Wallace University; bachelor’s degree, Mount Union College

How I Approach My Day: 1. Do the New York Times Spelling Bee and Wordle (and drink three cups of coffee) to wake up my brain. 2. Work out for 30 minutes to wake up my body. 3. Check out my texts and emails and freak out, which gets my adrenaline flowing. 4. Read a little note card with a saying from my late mom that says, “Be relentlessly positive,” which doesn’t always last long, but not for lack of effort!

How I Approach My Day: I approach each day with enthusiasm and passion to have a positive impact in the lives of the people we serve.

What I Look For in a Leader: Creativity, collaboration, selflessness, brilliance and confidence

Favorite Quote: “People follow incentives, not advice.” — James Clear

Favorite Quote: “We are what we repeatedly do.” — Shaq (channeling Aristotle)

My Leadership Style: My leadership style is practical and action oriented. I like clear ownership. One question I ask often is, “Who owns this?” If no one owns it, it usually does not get done. I also believe recognition matters. Thank-yous are currency, and people doing hard work need to know they are seen.

If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: LeBron

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: You will usually find me with my wife Pam and our two children, Aiden and Ava.

Jeffery K. Patterson

What Motivates Me Right Now: The desire to do good in, and give back to, my community, and the desire to try to solve complicated county issues through creativity and collaboration. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I went to divinity school, bicycled across the country and played in a rock band.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success for me looks like bringing people together to solve problems and overcome challenges that impede the success of others. What I Look for in a Leader: I look at a leader as someone who is strong, committed, compassionate, empathetic, results oriented, collaborative, focused and a very good listener who seeks input from others but is not afraid to stand up for what is right and needed. What Motivates Me Right Now: What motivates me right now is the opportunity to have a positive impact on the residents of our community by providing housing opportunities, supportive services and programing that can assist them down their path to success and stability. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outside of work you’ll find me spending time with my family, attending sporting events and either cooking or grilling some delicious food.

Chris Ronayne Cuyahoga County Executive Cuyahoga County

Education: Master’s degree in urban planning and development, Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs, Cleveland State University What Motivates Me Right Now: Listening to the next generation and working with them to get things done If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: John Glenn if he were alive. From Space to the U.S. Senate, he lived a fascinating life. My Leadership Style: Proximate leadership. You have to be in the community to know if your public decisions affect that community. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’d rather be on a bike. An Important Lesson I Learned: As a teenager, I sold ice cream from a cart in Downtown Cleveland. What I didn’t know then was that while I was selling ice cream in interesting city spaces, I was learning about city planning.

ERIK DROST

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with my family or playing ice hockey If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Some combination of Martin Sheen as Jeb Bartlett in West Wing and his son Emilio Estevez, who coached the Mighty Ducks clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 59

Government

Jason M. Joyce

Morris Beverage III President Lake County Board of Commissioners

Justin Bibb

Mayor City of Cleveland

Joevrose Bourdeau Small Economic Development Director City of Cleveland

Shontel Brown

U.S. Representative (11th District) U.S. House of Representatives

Russell E. Dash

Ninth District Commander Ninth Coast Guard District (U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes District)

Mike DeWine Governor State of Ohio

Blaine Griffin

President Cleveland City Council

Jon Husted U.S. Senator U.S. Senate

David Joyce

Jeffrey Riddell

President Lorain County Board of Commissioners

Ilene Shapiro

County Executive Summit County

U.S. Representative (14th District) U.S. House of Representatives

Lisa Stickan

Shammas Malik

Colleen M. Swedyk

Mayor City of Akron

Dale Miller

President Cuyahoga County Council

Bernie Moreno

Board Chairman Republican Party of Cuyahoga County President Medina County Board of Commissioners

Jim Tressel

Lieutenant Governor State of Ohio

U.S. Senator U.S. Senate

Michael O’Malley Prosecutor Cuyahoga County

GABE LEIDY

Empowering individuals and communities by providing opportunities for all to read, learn, create and connect. Congratulations to our CEO Jamar Rahming and all Cleveland 500 honorees. Congratulations to

Director Felton Thomas, Jr. on being named one of the Cleveland 500 60 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Healthcare

DANIEL LOZADA

Healthcare

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 61

Christine AlexanderRager

Richard Boyson Jr.

President & CEO

The MetroHealth System Education: M.D., The Ohio State University School of Medicine; postgraduate degrees, The Ohio State University and University of Pittsburgh; bachelor’s degree, Youngstown State University What Success Looks Like to Me: It means seeing both my personal family and my “Metro family” happy, healthy and fulfilled. It means making tangible inroads toward a better, more accessible and more affordable healthcare system for everyone. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for somebody who is their authentic self, knows their strengths and leads through them to effect positive change and constant improvement. What Motivates Me Right Now: I lead the oldest medical institution in Cleveland, one established solely to serve the community. The drive to carry that legacy forward is a powerful motivation. My Leadership Style: I am a highly collaborative servant leader. I consider collaboration to be my superpower.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Kent State University What Success Looks Like to Me: Providing exemplary service to our current residents while also building for the future is key. Additionally, developing and sustaining a strong workforce to deliver those services remains a core focus. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for leaders who share my passion for serving our residents, and individuals who keep our residents at the forefront of their decision making. Hiring individuals who complement my skill set is critical. When you surround yourself with experts and then rely on that expertise, great things can happen. What Motivates Me Right Now: Designing and building communities where residents can thrive, maintain their independence and develop lasting relationships is at the center of what we do. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: With my family, out on a run, working on cars or playing music — activities that help me stay grounded and energized

We congratulate

Chris Gessner,

President and CEO, Akron Children’s and the Cleveland 500.

62 Cleveland 500 | 2026

BOB PERKOSKI

An Important Lesson I Learned: You can never listen too much. It’s critical to always prioritize listening over talking. Also, never ignore your intuition. My only regrets seem to come from the times I didn’t trust my gut.

Eliza Jennings

Jorge GarciaZuazaga

President & CEO

Founder & President

Reserve Care

Apex Skin

Education: MBA, University at Buffalo

Education: M.D.

How I Approach My Day: Each day is a gift. When supporting patients with life-limiting illness, you appreciate the gift of time that is all too easy to take for granted. “Carpe Diem” is an important axiom!

What Success Looks Like to Me: Building something that lasts — a company that improves patients’ lives, creates opportunities for our team and makes Cleveland proud

What I Look for in a Leader: Integrity, compassion, curiosity, intelligence and kindness

What I Look for in a Leader: Integrity, accountability, humility and the ability to inspire people while still getting things done

Favorite Quote: “The practice of courage is needed most in situations where it is most threatened, and it is often those who have the most to lose who are the ones from whom the most courage is needed.” — Padraig O’Tuama What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am the webmaster for tarpemills.com, a website dedicated to my great aunt, the creator and artist of Miss Fury, the first comic female superhero, which was published in 1941. Tarpe Mills fought so hard for recognition as a female artist in a man’s world, and in doing so, opened up new opportunities for women artists. An Important Lesson I Learned: Above all, believe in love and demonstrate love, and surround yourself with good, happy people.

If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: A professional athlete on a championship team to experience that level of preparation, teamwork, pressure and execution What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: Before dermatology, I served as a Navy flight surgeon for a Marine fighter squadron. An Important Lesson I Learned: You can’t do everything at once. The key is choosing the right priorities, surrounding yourself with great people and executing consistently. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: With my wife and kids, traveling, skiing or thinking about the next big idea If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Top Gun — probably because of my flight surgeon/squadron days…miss the adrenaline rush!

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Healthcare

William Finn

Mark Kohoot CEO

Aeroscena LLC Education: Master’s degree, Audencia (France); bachelor’s degree, The Ohio State University What Success Looks Like to Me: Achieving financial security without compromising principles, while having time to enjoy it What Motivates Me Right Now: Creating a stable path to succession for my son My Leadership Style: Hire excellence and get out of the way. I set the guardrails and the culture and let the magic happen. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I really enjoy working with stone as a sculptor or a builder/designer. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: On the towpath A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Hillson Nut on W. 71st — a very hidden gem, with top products and fair prices

Shannon Kuhn President & CEO

Sprenger Healthcare Systems and Silver Maple Recovery

Tomislav “Tom” Mihaljevic

CEO & President, Morton L. Mandel CEO Chair Cleveland Clinic

Education: Bachelor’s degree

Education: University of Zagreb

How I Approach My Day: I approach my day with gratitude and responsibility. As a leader, you have an opportunity to influence not only business outcomes, but also people’s careers, families and communities. That perspective keeps me energized and focused on making meaningful decisions.

How I Approach My Day: I approach my days with optimism about how our organization can lead change and create new cross-industry partnerships. This will create the healthcare of the future, which will be better not only for our collective workforce but also for our No. 1 priority: patients.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is creating an organization where people can grow professionally and personally while delivering meaningful results for our clients and community. Financial performance matters, but long-term success is ultimately measured by the impact we have on others.

What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who is willing to do the hard things or unpopular things; seeking to make an impact without recognition or spotlight

What I Look for in a Leader: The best leaders bring out the best in others. Favorite Quote: “A rising tide lifts all boats.” What Motivates Me Right Now: The pace of change right now is incredibly motivating. There’s tremendous opportunity for organizations willing to adapt, innovate and challenge conventional thinking. An Important Lesson I Learned: The best outcomes come from listening, surrounding yourself with strong people and creating an environment where good ideas can come from anywhere.

Favorite Quote: “If we want things to stay as they are, things will have to change.” If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I would like to trade places with our founders to understand how they led during a different time in our history. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I call my mother every day. An Important Lesson I Learned: In training, there is a myth that needing to call an attending surgeon is a sign of weakness or failure. I have learned that the opposite is true. Asking for help is the courageous thing to do, and it is rewarded. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Marble Room or Mitchell’s

“I’m proud to be a part of an important public service, protecting health and our water resources. Our people, hundreds of them, make that possible. There are opportunities for you here.” Kyle Dreyfuss-Wells

Chief Executive Officer At every level, with every intention, we are committed to clean water. workforcleanwater.com 64 Cleveland 500 | 2026

President & CEO

Judson Services Inc. Education: Master’s degree in business administration and healthcare management, Baldwin Wallace University; bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, Ohio University How I Approach My Day: I approach every day with curiosity, a commitment to innovation, optimism about opportunities ahead and the steady leadership needed to navigate change and deliver results. What Success Looks Like to Me: Success looks like empowering others to reach their potential, driving meaningful and sustainable change and creating a lasting impact on whatever is in front of me. Favorite Quote: “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” What Motivates Me Right Now: I am motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference for older adults who need memory care support and to help create environments where they can thrive with dignity and compassion. Outside of Work, You’ll Find Me: Outside of work, you’ll most likely find me on the sidelines of a soccer field, cheering on my children or on a boat, enjoying the calm that comes with being on the water.

Robert “Bob” Varley

William A. Young Jr.

Chair of the Board of Directors

President & CEO

Sisters of Charity Health System Education: Bachelor’s degree, Youngstown State University What Success Looks Like to Me: Success means creating lasting, positive change. I value relationships, trust and progress achieved through collaboration. What I Look for in a Leader: I admire leaders who show integrity, vision and a genuine commitment to service. Effective leaders inspire trust, listen actively and unite people around shared goals. My Leadership Style: I believe in empowering others, building consensus and fostering teamwork. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have a tattoo of Foghorn Leghorn and a yellow rose on my shoulder, honoring my sons and wife. The yellow rose symbolizes loyalty for my wife, and Foghorn Leghorn stands for my sons — after a store clerk remarked they reminded him of the character as toddlers. It is a tribute to family, humor and love. An Important Lesson I Learned: Genuine progress starts with understanding others’ perspectives. Listening builds trust and leads to better decisions. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I would love to be the voice of Bob the Minion. His playful spirit and teamwork reflect values I cherish.

Southwest General Education: MBA, the University of Toledo; bachelor’s degree in business administration, Ohio Northern University How I Approach My Day: I try to approach each day with a sense of purpose. Rather than simply reacting to what comes at me, I focus on the few priorities that will make the greatest difference to our organization. I spend time listening, asking questions, removing barriers for others and helping leaders solve problems. Favorite Quote: “Employees want to believe their company has a meaningful purpose. They want to know that their own job is worthwhile. They want to make a difference. If all three of these conditions are accomplished, bottom line results will follow.” – Quint Studer What Motivates Me Right Now: What motivates me right now is the progress we are making as an organization and the opportunities that lie ahead. Helping our people improve the patient experience, advance our priorities and position our organization for the future keeps me energized each day. My Leadership Style: I believe in setting a clear direction, communicating openly, developing people and creating a culture where individuals are empowered to be successful.

Jorge Garcia-Zuazaga MD | MBA | FAAD | FACMS Founder and CEO

Thank you for your passion, dedication and tireless commitment to strengthening healthcare in our community. Congratulations on being named to the Cleveland 500. — The Southwest General Boards of Trustees, Medical Staff, Employees and Volunteers

Congratulations to all the Cleveland 500 honorees. Dermatology | Aesthetics

15 years. 15 locations: Still Same Day Appointments 833.279.SKIN | apexskin.com clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 65

Healthcare

Kendra Urdzik

Mitchell Balk

President Mt. Sinai Health Foundation

Maria Bennett

President & CEO SPR Therapeutics

Daniel Carestio President & CEO STERIS

Jill Dietrich Mellon

Executive Director & CEO VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System

Joshua Frederick President & CEO NOMS Healthcare

Christopher A. Gessner President & CEO Akron Children’s

John Luellen

State President of Ohio Mercy Health

Cliff Megerian

CEO University Hospitals

Matthew Monoghan

CEO Invacare Holdings Corp.

Michael Petras Jr. Chairman & CEO Sotera Health

Robyn Strosaker

Market President & COO University Hospitals Lake Health Medical Centers

Daryl Tol

Acting President & CEO Summa Health

William Koeblitz

GABE WASYLKO

Founder & Chairman MobilityWorks

we congratulate

robert (bob) varley on being named a member of the 2026 Cleveland 500 ! We’re so proud and grateful for your continued leadership and service as our Chair on the Sisters of Charity Health System Board of Directors.

A Ministry of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine

Serving Ohio & South Carolina: Outreach Ministries Early Childhood Resource Center, Healthy Learners, Joseph & Mary’s Home, St. Vincent Charity Health & Healing Hub, South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families Elder Care Ministries Light of Hearts Villa, Regina Health Center Grantmaking Ministries Sisters of Charity Foundation of Canton, Sisters of Charity Foundation of Cleveland, Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina

sistersofcharityhealth.org 66 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Insurance

ALEX FARMER

Insurance

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 67

Michelle Hirsch Co-President & Third Generation Owner Brunswick Cos.

Education: MBA, Case Western University’s Weatherhead School of Business; bachelor’s degree, Pennsylvania State University What Success Looks Like to Me: Success means building an organization that our employees are proud to work for, our clients trust with their most important assets and our community is better because of. If we can do that while continuing to grow and adapt in a changing world, that’s success to me. What I Look for in a Leader: Self awareness. The best leaders know what they know, what they don’t know and aren’t threatened by people who are smarter than they are in certain areas.

President & CEO

Armada Risk Partners Education: The Ohio State University How I Approach My Day: I treat every day like a strategic blend of disciplined execution, relationship building and intentional enjoyment. My day revolves around scaling what matters, whether it is national and international business growth, strong team culture, member experiences at the club or time with my wife Megan and our sons, all while carving out space for the things that recharge me, like bourbon, cigars, golf, Cleveland sports and a well-crafted cocktail at the end of it. What Success Looks Like to Me: I strongly feel that everyone has the same definition of success, which is happiness. Now, what makes one happy differs. For me it’s my family and friends. What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m motivated by a powerful mix of legacy, momentum and meaningful impact, especially through family, business and the work of helping others. Family is the deepest driver. Megan and I are raising our four sons while continuing the mission of Prayers from Maria.

ISTOCK: SIMONKR

An Important Lesson I Learned: People want to be seen, not managed. Early in my career, I thought expertise was what built trust. Over time, I’ve learned that relationships build trust. Whether I’m working with a professional athlete, a family business owner or a Fortune 500 executive, they’re all people first. They have families, worries, goals and responsibilities just like everyone else. When you treat people like people instead of titles, better conversations happen and stronger relationships follow.

Edward Xavier McNamara

An Important Lesson I Learned: Treat every single person with genuine kindness, respect and support ... because you never know who they are or how it might come full circle.

Empowering you with a world of protection. OswaldCompanies.com 855.4OSWALD property & casualty employee benefits life insurance retirement plan services personal risk management 68 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Strategic Risk Management and Insurance Brokerage

Insurance

Andrew "Bubba" Berenzweig CEO Hylant

President & CEO Western Reserve Group

Jim Dustin

Managing Director NFP

President & CEO Fleet Response

Ed Largent

CEO & Board Chair Westfield

Howard L. Lewis

Founder & Chairman Emeritus Family Heritage Life Insurance Co. of America

Umberto Fedeli President & CEO The Fedeli Group

Tricia Griffith

President & CEO Progressive Insurance President & CEO Medical Mutual of Ohio

David Kempton

Chairman & CEO Oswald Cos.

Allison Lanzilotta

Greg A. Brunn

Tony Helton

Robert Klonk

Jane Peterson Ohio President Anthem

Amanda Yoho CEO Proformex

Ohio President Gallagher

CONGRATULATIONS

Patty Shlonsky Partner-in-Charge, Cleveland

Congratulations to Armada Risk Partners CEO Ed McNamara for once again earning a place among the Cleveland 500.

... and to all the Cleveland 500 honorees on this noteworthy recognition.

We salute Ed and all the Cleveland 500 honorees.

ubglaw.com We Protect. You Grow. Armadarisk.com

UBG was created in 2024 through the merger of Ulmer & Berne and Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, two strong, growth-focused firms who joined forces creating an Am Law 200 legal powerhouse. clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 69

Law

ALEX FARMER

70 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Law

Nailah K. Byrd

Michele Connell

Colleen Cotter

Cuyahoga County Clerk of Courts

Global Managing Partner, US LLP

Executive Director

Cuyahoga County Education: Juris doctor

Favorite Quote: “There are no secrets to success. Don’t waste time looking for them. Success is the result of perfection, hard work, perseverance and learning from failure.” — Colin Powell If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I might trade places with Michelle Obama. She is highly educated, intelligent, dignified, an accomplished attorney, concerned for others and a role model for so many women. What Motivates Me Right Now: I think our country, our state and our community are in a defining moment, and I want to be part of the positive solution for all of us and most especially for those struggling among us. So, I am motivated each day to use every skill I have learned to add to a positive endgame for all. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am an excellent cook, and I enjoy seeking new recipes and preparing special meals for my family. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I would love to be the prosecutor starring in Law and Order.

Squire Patton Boggs

Education: Juris doctor, Case Western Reserve University; bachelor’s degree, Georgetown University How I Approach My Day: I begin each day with optimism and gratitude for the opportunities and challenges that will cross my path. What I Look for in a Leader: I appreciate good listeners. They often ask the best questions. If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Toss-up between Mariska Hargitay in real life or her character Olivia Benson My Leadership Style: I strive to find the balance among engaged, collaborative and consistent. The benefit of a partnership is the many people I am able to interact with every day across the globe and our offices. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: Before I became a lawyer, I worked overseas as a diplomat and had very cool experiences in Poland and Honduras. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: I spend time with family and friends and love the outdoors — gardening, hiking and traveling.

The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland Education: Juris doctor, Indiana UniversityBloomington; bachelor’s degree, University of Notre Dame What Success Looks Like to Me: I remember saying very early in my career that I just want to be able to go home at the end of the day and be able to say that I made the world a little better today, a little more just; I made someone’s life better, a community stronger. That’s still what success looks like to me. Favorite Quote: “Peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice.” — Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have five siblings, and I’m the youngest. Some people assume I am the oldest, but being the youngest gave me lots of opportunity to watch and listen. I learned what advocacy worked with my parents and what didn’t — a very valuable vantage point. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: On a long walk with my husband and our dog. Lakeview Cemetery and the Cleveland Metroparks are our favorites.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Solstice Steps in Lakewood

Ira Kaplan Gregg Eisenberg Managing Partner Benesch

Partner & Chairman, Corporate Practice Group Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff LLP

Christopher G. Keim Managing Partner Frantz Ward LLP

Education: Juris doctor, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law; bachelor’s degree, University of Rochester

Education: Juris doctor, George Washington University Law School; bachelor’s degree in political science, University of Rochester

Education: Juris doctor, Case Western Reserve University School of Law; bachelor’s degree, The Ohio State University

How I Approach My Day: If I bring enthusiasm, optimism and accountability to the day, it encourages others to do the same. This is a demanding profession, and I think it’s important to bring energy and a sense of fun to the work.

What I Look for in a Leader: They listen actively; recognize that input from colleagues, regardless of tenure or age, carries insights; exhibit empathy; communicate effectively; show humility; celebrate the successes of others; and take educated business risks and are right the majority of the time.

How I Approach My Day: I focus on people, priorities and making steady progress on the matters that have the greatest impact.

What Success Looks Like to Me: If the people around me are growing, succeeding and enjoying the journey, I consider that a win. What I Look for In a Leader: Authenticity, consistency and empathy. They care about results, but they care just as much about people. My Leadership Style: I try to be accessible, transparent, engaged and intentional about relationships. I make time to reach out, stay in touch and be present, whether that’s through a quick message or face-to-face time. An Important Lesson I Learned: No matter how hard you work or how talented you are, you accomplish far more when you surround yourself with great people and help them succeed. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Shoreby Club

What Motivates Me Right Now: As the incoming board chair of United Way, we are focused on helping families who have a hard time making ends meet move toward stability. Cleveland has a substantial percentage of families who are working but struggle to make ends meet. Moving the needle in helping these families is important and has the collateral benefit of making Cleveland’s economy stronger. An Important Lesson I Learned: One should not mistake kindness for weakness. Empathy is not inconsistent with accountability. Leadership includes setting examples for one’s teams. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with family, riding my road bike and finding as much time as possible to spend with three little granddaughters

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is building a strong, thriving law firm where our clients, attorneys and staff achieve their goals and grow together. What I Look for in a Leader: A good leader should be honest, decisive, accountable and genuinely invested in the success of others. Favorite Quote: “A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus, but a molder of consensus.” — Martin Luther King Jr. My Leadership Style: People focused, approachable and grounded in honesty, transparency and direct communication What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: Despite having over 100 jury trials and hundreds of speeches, I still get nervous before I speak in public. An Important Lesson I Learned: Do not tolerate toxic behavior at any level, because organizations are stronger and healthier when culture and values come first. clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 71

Harold Maxfield Managing Partner Cavitch, Familo and Durkin Co. LPA Education: Juris doctor What I Look for in a Leader: The ability to make decisions that are contrary to your own personal interest. Favorite Quote: “If you always do the right thing, you will never be wrong.” If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: If forced, I would pick Scottie Scheffler because I would love to be a great golfer. My Leadership Style: I try to be very transparent and build a consensus with respect to material decisions. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I wrestled in college. An Important Lesson I Learned: Learn to adapt to the times. For example, I am not crazy about working from home, yet I had to accept it to attract and keep our talented associates and young partners. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with my wife or on the golf course A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Little Italy If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I love westerns and John Wayne, so Big Jake is my choice.

Teresa Metcalf Beasley Member, Chair of Public Finance & Public Law; Chair, Civic Engagement & Community Relations McDonald Hopkins LLC

Education: Juris doctor, Cleveland State University Law School; bachelor’s degree in communications, University of Alabama What I Look for in a Leader: I look for a leader who is principled, courageous and consistent — someone who does the right thing even when it is difficult and who understands that leadership is ultimately about service. Favorite Quote: My favorite quote is “And Still I Rise” by Dr. Maya Angelou. As a Black female attorney, I understand that progress is often made in the face of barriers, bias and rooms where people like me were not always expected to belong. Yet, those words remind me that I stand on the strength of those who came before me, and that my work carries forward a legacy of perseverance, excellence and service. What Motivates Me Right Now: The opportunity to create lasting impact — through my work, my example and my service An Important Lesson I Learned: It is easy to take credit when things go well, but true character is revealed in the moments when we must own a decision, acknowledge a mistake or take responsibility for the outcome.

Shawn M. Riley

Becky Ruppert McMahon

Chairman

President & CEO

McDonald Hopkins LLC

Cleveland Leadership Center

Thomas Ostrowski Partner-in-Charge, Cleveland Tucker Ellis LLP

Education: Juris doctor, Cleveland State University Law School; bachelor’s degree in history, SUNY Buffalo What Success Looks Like to Me: The most successful people, in my eyes, are the ones who can balance the often impossible balancing act of a career and family. There is never enough time, so how one uses the time is the key. What I Look for in a Leader: Successful leaders need to be trusted, empathetic and collaborative. They must be listeners. An Important Lesson I Learned: As a young attorney, I met a nun at a lunch event. She asked me to tell her about myself. As I began to speak, she stopped me and said she didn’t want to hear about what firm I worked at, or what kind of work I did. She wanted to know about me, my family and life overall. I appreciate that approach to this day. When talking to people, no matter the position, I always try to find out something about them that has nothing to do with their job or company but instead what they are passionate about.

Chris Schmitt CEO

Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and Foundation

Education: Juris doctor, Case Western Reserve School of Law; bachelor’s degree, Kent State University

Education: Juris doctor, The Ohio State University; bachelor’s degree, Smith College

Education: Juris doctor and MBA, Case Western Reserve University; bachelor’s degree, Hiram College

How I Approach My Day: As an opportunity. An opportunity to do great legal work for my clients; an opportunity to make a mark in the community; and an opportunity to enjoy my family and friends.

How I Approach My Day: I strive to live each day rooted in meaningful relationships, purpose and a passion for the possibilities of tomorrow.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success to me looks like making a difference in the lives of people you may never meet directly.

What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who builds bridges, not silos; invites voices, not echoes; embraces change, not comfort; and isn’t afraid to take smart risks in pursuit of something better

What I Look for in a Leader: Great leaders have “teammates” and not staff. Great leaders share credit and take blame. Great leaders understand that we can always make great things better next time. Great leaders celebrate the journey and the destination. And most important of all, great leaders develop great leaders and become their biggest fans when they move on to do great things elsewhere.

Favorite Quote: “Recognition should not be the objective of your actions, but the result of your actions.” My Leadership Style: Delegation and trust. I have tried to hire and promote talented people and then provide them with the opportunity to do their jobs, grow in their positions and become leaders themselves. I try as hard as I can not to micromanage. An Important Lesson I Learned: When dealing with people working for you, or when dealing with your children, praise publicly but correct privately. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Cooking for family and friends, golfing (poorly) or debating books, history and/ or politics with groups of friends over lunch or drinks A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Sapphire Creek Winery and Gardens or Orchid House Winery. Both classy places with great food. Also Sara’s Place.

72 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Favorite Quote: “Well-behaved women seldom make history.” What Motivates Me Right Now: The unmistakable momentum driving across our region toward true collaboration that will build a greater Cleveland Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending as much time as possible outside, including getting lost in my garden, hiking in a Metropark, chasing a ball (or four) around a golf course, navigating Lake Erie, dinking my way across a pickleball court or forcing my 10-year-old dog to take another loop through our neighborhood A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Green Goat Café

My Leadership Style: I lead by phrases and references. People get a lot of pop-culture and trivia references from me because everything reminds me of something else that I’ve seen or heard or read — that encyclopedic recall is one of those ADHD superpowers that I wouldn’t trade for anything. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: My daughter and I love to go on adventures around the region in search of great Asian food and unique arcade games. We recently discovered Claw Boba Snack at East 31st Street and Payne Avenue, and it’s an incredible place with super friendly owners and staff.

Law

Patty Shlonsky Partner

UB Greensfelder LLP Education: Juris doctor, The Ohio State University; bachelor’s degree in English, Miami University What I Look for in a Leader: The ability to think strategically and to anticipate and plan next steps proactively Favorite Quote: “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Providing the best service I can to my clients and coworkers to ensure that things run smoothly with or without me An Important Lesson I Learned: Consistent with my favorite quote, a person’s behavior is a true reflection of who they are. It is important to understand that person’s nature and work with it rather than expecting a change. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Engaged in various board activities or reading one of the hundreds (thousands?) of books I have stacked up all over my house

Douglas E. Spiker

Tony White

Shareholder-in-Charge, Cleveland

Managing Partner Thompson Hine LLP

Roetzel & Andress

Education: Juris doctor, Ohio Northern University School of Law; bachelor’s degree, Mount Union College How I Approach My Day: Reflecting on yesterday, determining how to conquer tomorrow and how to attack today What I Look for in a Leader: Communication, delegation, collaboration and the ability to make difficult decisions but also admit mistakes If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: A PGA tour player

Education: Juris doctor, Northwestern University School of Law; bachelor’s degree, The Ohio State University What Success Looks Like to Me: Building on our firm’s national momentum by delivering smarter, more innovative and more predictable outcomes for clients while creating meaningful opportunities for our people and communities to thrive What I Look for in a Leader: The best leaders combine vision, accountability and empathy, inspire trust, embrace change and empower others to perform at their highest level.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: On the golf course

What Motivates Me Right Now: The opportunity to lead the firm at a pivotal time in the evolution of legal service delivery, leveraging innovation, AI and technology to transform how we deliver exceptional value to clients while staying deeply connected to our people

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Playhouse Square. Cleveland is the largest performing arts center outside of New York City and boasts the largest season ticket base of close to 45,000, drawing in over 1 million people a year to Downtown Cleveland.

My Leadership Style: Collaborative, forward thinking and grounded in transparency, with a focus on building strong teams, empowering talented people and driving continuous improvement through thoughtful leadership and open communication

What Motivates Me Right Now: Knowing that my work life is coming to an end, I want to leave my firm in a better place than when I joined it in 1998.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I served as the captain of The Ohio State Buckeyes basketball team, and I served as a basketball commentator on the Big 10 Network.

Ian Friedman

Founding & Managing Partner Friedman, Nemecek, Long & Grant

Terry Gilbert

Adrian D. Thompson Co-Partner-in-Charge/ Chief Inclusion and Opportunity Officer Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP

Founding Partner Friedman, Gilbert + Gerhardstein

Sonya Virant

Lawrence Oscar

Dustin Vrabel

CEO Litigation Management Inc.

Senior Counsel Hahn Loeser & Parks

Jon Pinney

Managing Partner Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs LLC

Thomas Welsh

Managing Partner KJK

Managing Partner Calfee Halter & Griswold

John Saada Jr.

Partner-in-Charge Cleveland Jones Day

Dwayne Steward

CEO & Executive Director Equality Ohio

Margaret Wong

Founder & Managing Partner Margaret Wong & Associates LLC

Matthew Tenerowicz THOM SHERIDAN

Office Managing Partner BakerHostetler

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GABE WASYLKO

Manufacturing & Logistics

Allison Boersma

Timothy K. Flanagan

President & CEO

Education: Master’s degree in management, marketing and finance, Northwestern University; bachelor’s degree in accountancy, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, University of Dayton

Covia

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business How I Approach My Day: Begin every day with a win. I exercise every morning — usually a nice, long run. It prepares me for my day, and it’s a time for reflection and gratitude. What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is all about the journey. Italians have a saying, “Nella vita si sale e si scende,” meaning “life has its ups and downs, so use the difficulty, because it’s inevitable.” Favorite Quote: “Remember when you point a finger, three of them point back at you!” If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My children. I’m genuinely excited about their future. My Leadership Style: Authentic and transformational What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I was born in a small farming village in Italy and immigrated to the U.S. with my family. An Important Lesson I Learned: Never forget your North Star and the who — where you came from and what others do and did to help you along the way. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Il Rione — best pizza in Cleveland If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Band of Brothers

Neal Restivo CEO

Oatey Co. Education: Miami University What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is creating lasting impact by building strong teams, developing future leaders and helping people and organizations achieve goals that seemed out of reach.

Riddell

What Motivates Me Right Now: Having a positive impact on the football community by driving player participation and protection for athletes of all ages. Our smart helmet technology changes protection from reactive to proactive and gives coaches, players and parents peace of mind to reduce barriers to participation. My Leadership Style: My leadership is founded on a solid understanding of the business and providing clear direction and vision for where I want us to go. From there, I like to let people run with it with regular check-ins. An Important Lesson I Learned: I saw a story once about a father who, instead of asking his kids “what did you do today?” at the dinner table, asked them, “what did you do for someone else today?” I thought that was one of the most impactful lessons for his family and for me.

Allison Roberts Grealis Founder & President

Women in Manufacturing Association (WIM)

An Important Lesson I Learned: I’ve learned that not all motion is action. Worrying about things outside your control may keep you busy, but it doesn’t move the ball forward. Focus on those things within your control and let the results speak for themselves. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Either spending time with my family or at Hill ’n Dale If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I would want to be one of the judges on Top Chef

Paulo Ruiz CEO

Eaton Education: Post-MBA, Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management; FEI, electrical engineering; MBA, Fundacao Dom Cabral

Favorite Quote: “You can have it all, just not all at the same time.” — Betty Friedan

What Success Looks Like to Me: At Eaton, our goal is to be the top choice — for customers, suppliers, employees and investors. We will: Lead for Growth. Invest for Growth. Execute for Growth. Lead for Growth: Become a more agile, customer centric organization by setting a bold vision, listening first and empowering teams to innovate where and when customers need it most. Invest for Growth: In our people, customers and partners so we have the right tools, talent, capability and technology to deliver critical power solutions to high-growth, high-margin markets. Execute for Growth: Deliver consistently and predictably through best-in-class operational excellence to bring industry-leading solutions to our customers on time, every time.

My Leadership Style: I strive to be transparent, supportive and accountable. I believe in setting a clear direction and empowering others to achieve results. I also believe in encouraging others to challenge assumptions, consider different perspectives and take calculated risks.

An Important Lesson I Learned: I don’t believe work-life balance is a realistic goal because it implies that work and life exist on opposite sides of a scale that can somehow remain perfectly equal. In reality, different seasons of life and leadership require different priorities. Instead, I believe in work-life integration — aligning my professional responsibilities, personal commitments and values in a way that allows me to be fully present where I am needed most while maintaining overall wellbeing and fulfillment.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: On my bike. I cycle to stay fit and also to support great causes like VeloSano, which raises money for cancer research.

Favorite Quote: “Work hard, laugh a lot and always remember friends and family.”

Education: Master’s degree in public administration, University of Akron; bachelor’s degree in English, Ohio University

What Motivates Me Right Now: I am motivated by the opportunity to build a movement that transforms manufacturing through the advancement of women, while creating an enduring legacy of leadership, opportunity and industry impact.

An Important Lesson I Learned: People will work with you, even in tough situations, if you are honest, transparent and respectful.

What I Look for in a Leader: Integrity and personal accountability — at the end of the day, it’s on you, so do what you say you are going to do and don’t look to blame others for failures.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Playing tennis and pickleball, paddleboarding on Lake Michigan or traveling the world

What I Look for in a Leader: I look for leaders who combine integrity with the ability to positively influence others and drive results. The best leaders are transparent, listen to different perspectives, embrace change and are comfortable with ambiguity.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I recently started playing guitar again and taking lessons after being away from it for almost 30 years.

GrafTech International

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I would love to venture outside of my comfort zone and be a contestant on a reality competition show like The Amazing Race.

My Leadership Style: I’m focused on building an inclusive culture where people, performance and purpose come together. We’ll celebrate operators who get the details right, engineers who challenge what’s possible and teams that collaborate across boundaries to help us exceed customer expectations around the world.

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 75

Manufacturing & Logistics

Bruno Biasiotta

Jack Schron Jr.

Michael D. Siegal

Roger J. Sustar

President & CEO

Chairman

CEO-Founder

Ryerson/Olympic Steel

Jergens Inc.

Education: Juris doctor and bachelor’s degree What Success Looks Like to Me: To set a goal and achieve it What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who focuses on the improvement in those who are on the team seeking a team success

Education: Bachelor’s degree in education, Miami University How I Approach My Day: Every day is a chance to make a difference.

Fredon Corp.

Education: Dyke College; St. Joseph High School How I Approach My Day: Get up, clean up, get dressed and face the world.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Am I a better person every day?

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is never in the eyes of the holder; it’s in the eyes of the beholder (the one wanting it).

Favorite Quote: “It is not the critic who counts ... The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena ...”

What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who motivates others to do well

What I Look for in a Leader: A sincere person who believes in God, not just money goals

What Motivates Me Right Now: To help my family and others to learn and grow

Favorite Quote: “Cash is king.”

Favorite Quote: “Just do it.”

What Motivates Me Right Now: Watching my grandchildren succeed

If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I would love to be with my wife in eternity.

My Leadership Style: Listen well. Then, act.

What Motivates Me Right Now: Life itself — even at 83 years old. Still working to make a difference in this world.

My Leadership Style: To be an active, caring person setting stretch growth goals for individuals and the organization What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: The common thread of being in college theatre and a criminal law attorney

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am fully aware how blessed my life has been. An Important Lesson I Learned: Be kind.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Working on a home project

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: At home or in Chautauqua

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Sitting on a bench watching the Chagrin Falls waterfall with an ice cream cone and my wife

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Sara’s Place — good food and great people!

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: A Few Good Men

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: High Fidelity — to sit around and listen to music all day

Supporting Northeast Ohio’s Future Covia is a leading provider of minerals and material solutions that improve daily lives. We believe in the power of long-term partnerships – built on integrity, reliability and an innovative solutions mindset – to deliver shared success. www.CoviaCorp.com

76 Cleveland 500 | 2026

My Leadership Style: Lead by example and treat everyone (employees) like family An Important Lesson I Learned: It’s the small things that make us happy, not the large ones. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Relaxing at home or, in the winter, in Florida If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life — Jimmy Stewart

Todd Leebow

Heidi G. Petz

Juan Chahda

Rebecca Liebert

Josh Reiner

President & CEO The Timken Co.

President & CEO Majestic Steel USA

President Cleveland Die & Manufacturing Co.

President & CEO The Lubrizol Corp.

Deon Stander

Chairman & CEO Swagelok

President & CEO Kyntronics Inc.

President & CEO Avery Dennison Co.

Robert McBride

Lourenco Goncalves

Chairman, President & CEO Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

Steven Hedlund

Michael Stanek

CEO Marmon Holdings

Co-Owner & CFO Hunt Imaging LLC

Matt Mcdermott

Mark Stewart

President The Garland Co.

Chairman & CEO Lincoln Electric

President & CEO The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.

Darrell McNair

Ethan Karp

President & CEO MVP Plastics Corp.

President & CEO MAGNET

Frank Sullivan

Chairman & CEO RPM International Inc.

Sundaram Nagarajan

Chairman, President & CEO Avient Corp. ALEX FARMER

President & CEO Pioneer Athletics

Thomas Lozick

Wayne Foley

President & CEO Vitamix

Doug Schattinger

President & CEO TransDigm

President & CEO Morrison Products

Steve Laserson

Head of Purchasing Joshen Paper & Packaging, a division of Bunzl

Mike Lisman

Megan Fellinger

Ashish Khandpur

Chair, President & CEO The Sherwin-Williams Co.

President & CEO Nordson Corp.

Jennifer A. Parmentier Chairman & CEO Parker Hannifin Corp.

Cleveland_500_Ad_Print.pdf

7/14/26

1:07 PM

CONGRATULATIONS Jack Schron Jr. on being named one of the Cleveland 500 And to all other 2026 Cleveland 500 Honorees

Congratulations to Oatey’s CEO

Neal Restivo Cleveland 500 Honoree

CMY

We applaud this entire group of visionary leaders for their commitment to our community and impressive professional achievements.

JACK SCHRON JR.

President & CEO Jergens Inc.

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 77

Manufacturing & Logistics

Lucian Boldea

Real Estate, Housing, Architects, Building & Construction GABE WASYLKO

78 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Principal Emeritus & Senior Advisor

Bialosky & Partners Architects Education: Master’s degree in architecture, Yale University; bachelor’s degree, University of Pennsylvania

Pat Covey

Victor DiGeronimo Jr.

Chairman, President & CEO

CEO

The Davey Tree Expert Co.

Education: BBA in accounting and finance, Wisconsin School of Business

What I Look for in a Leader: The willingness to listen with empathy and the humility to do any task asked of others. The discretion to know when to lead and when to follow. The self-confidence to admit when in error and the ability to change direction accordingly.

What Success Looks Like to Me: I’m a big believer that it matters how you win. I think there are easy ways to win, but I believe you win by showing empathy and humility and following the rules. When we’re talking about success at Davey, we always have a goal in mind, but we lean into our values to get there.

Favorite Quote: “I didn’t get much done today, but I’m going to give it hell tomorrow.” — Travis Gower Walsh Jr., architect, Bialosky employee from 1970-2004

Favorite Quote: “If the job has once begun, never leave it till it’s done, whether it be big or small, do it right or not at all.”

My Leadership Style: I am willing to listen and try to lead by consensus, but I am decisive. I value facts, research and others’ opinions, but I also trust my gut instincts.

My Leadership Style: I try to follow the servant leadership style, and I try to adhere to the qualities I look for in a leader — being curious and trustworthy and having empathy and humility.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I was a classical civilization major in college. I’ve studied five musical instruments. I’m an accomplished sailor and woodworker. I’m still riding my Ducati Multi-strada (motorcycle) at 72. I’ve flown in the Goodyear blimp.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time outside with my dogs or just trying to be active. I like biking, fishing, birding and playing golf. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and Playhouse Square

Brad Disandis

Managing Principal

President & CEO

What Success Looks Like to Me: While we always love to design new and exciting buildings for our clients, seeing the growth and maturity of our staff over the years is, without question, the most rewarding aspect of my role these days. What I Look for in a Leader: Confidence, consideration, creativity and the courage to take a chance that might fail If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Hemingway in Paris or Joyce in Trieste, 1920s What Motivates Me Right Now: Finding new and creative ways to meet the current budget challenges in the construction industry is a daily and repeating motivation. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I love to garden and to see the always-encouraging reward of plants growing at the end of a very long day. An Important Lesson I Learned: Listening — really listening and understanding — is the most important skill for an architect. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: A nerdy fountain pen expert on PBS’s Antiques Roadshow. Is that an option?

How I Approach My Day: I approach each day with optimism and flexibility. What Success Looks Like to Me: Producing a quality product safely and on time while focusing on maintaining strong relationships with repeat customers What I Look for in a Leader: I look for someone who leads by example and maintains our family’s strong culture. What Motivates Me Right Now: I am motivated to leave everything better for my children and the people around me. My Leadership Style: I lead by example. I am not afraid to get my hands dirty. I believe in hard work, accountability and supporting my team whenever needed. An Important Lesson I Learned: You cannot make a good deal with a bad person.

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I would want to be in Yellowstone.

Scott M. Dimit

Education: Bachelor’s degree in architecture, Virginia Tech

Education: Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering; associate degree in marketing and sales, University of Akron

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Hunting, fishing and spending time with my family and friends

An Important Lesson I Learned: No matter how exasperated with someone else’s ignorance, stupidity or failure to do what you need, it is never ever OK to be rude.

Dimit Architects LLC

DiGeronimo Cos.

Bradley Stone Industries Ltd. Education: Kent State University How I Approach My Day: I approach each day by thinking in terms of improvement. How can we strive to improve every aspect of our customer experience along with the quality that we deliver to our customers? What Success Looks Like to Me: Having meaningful relationships with my family and friends What I Look for in a Leader: Consistency and calm. Every day is a new challenge to overcome, and the most effective leaders I know remain calm under the most extreme circumstances. Favorite Quote: “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” — Albert Einstein What Motivates Me Right Now: Consistently pushing the boundaries in the stone industry for unique design, materials and our process. We push those boundaries every day with what is possible with stone applications.

Debbie Donley Founder & Chief Experience Officer Vocon

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Bowling Green State University How I Approach My Day: I approach each day with an entry in my gratitude journal. When you look at life through the lens of gratefulness, it enables you to process each success and each challenge knowing that those experiences are part of a distinct plan curated for you by God. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for empathetic leaders who can put themselves in others’ shoes. Once you are able to connect with people in authentic ways, anything is possible. Favorite Quote: “It is not what you say, it is what you do.” Many people spend their lives talking and getting nothing done. “Create a vision and execute” is my motto. What Motivates Me Right Now: I am a new grandmother to the most beautiful granddaughter. Eleanor motivates me to continue making the design community a better place. An Important Lesson I Learned: Every day is a gift. Be kind. Forgive. Treasure every moment. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Chagrin Falls If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: The Devil Wears Prada clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 79

Real Estate, Housing, Architects, Building & Construction

Jack Alan Bialosky Jr.

Michael Doris

Adam Fishman

Daniel Hurst

President

Principal

Co-Founder & COO

Mars Electric

Fairmount Properties

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration/finance and marketing

Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance and economics, Miami University

How I Approach My Day: Even while handling day-today responsibilities, I keep the long-term direction of the business in mind and consider how today’s decisions will impact the future growth, stability and success of the company.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Leaving the world better than we found it, taking care of those around me and having fun along the way

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success to me looks like helping sustain and grow a long-term family business in a way that preserves its values, relationships and reputation for future generations, while also maintaining a healthy balance with family life. True success is finding a balance where both the business and family can thrive together over the long term. What I Look for in a Leader: The best leaders create an environment where employees feel valued, supported and trusted to do their jobs well. Favorite Quote: My favorite quote is from my father and mentor, Mark Doris: “It’s OK to make mistakes — just don’t put us out of business.” Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with my family and supporting my kids at their sports games, school events and other activities

Patrick Hurst CEO

Hurst Design Build Remodel

Favorite Quote: “Once in while you get shown the light in the strangest of places if you look at it right.” — Robert Hunter (a great American poet and songwriter) If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Having just read Cameron Crowe’s autobiography, The Uncool, if I could somehow transport back to the early ’70s and be him at 16 years old, interviewing the Allman Brothers, that would be amazing. My Leadership Style: Direct honesty, kindness and a strong desire to make decisions and move things forward If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Maybe Kevin Kline’s character in The Big Chill. He seems like a good guy who loves to have his family and friends around. But we would have to eradicate his attendance in that school up north. In my version they would all be Buckeyes!

80 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Favorite Quote: “Every day is a new opportunity. You can build on yesterday’s success or put its failures behind and start over again. That’s the way life is, with a new game every day.” — Bob Feller If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Scottie Scheffler. I’d love to know what it feels like to step onto the golf course knowing you’re probably one of the best players in the world. Plus, I’d finally get to see what a good golf swing looks like. An Important Lesson I Learned: Work hard, but don’t forget to enjoy the life you’re working so hard to build. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Ted Lasso. One of my favorite Ted quotes is, “Taking on a challenge is a lot like riding a horse. If you’re comfortable while you’re doing it, you’re probably doing it wrong.”

President

Absolute Roofing and Construction

What Success Looks Like to Me: Building a company that takes care of its customers, employees and community while creating opportunities for others to grow and succeed

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Tommy Boy. One of the best lines is, “A guarantee is only as good as the man who stands behind it.” That idea has always resonated with me because in business, just like in life, people remember whether you follow through on your promises.

What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who takes ownership, follows through on their commitments and holds themselves accountable to the same standards they expect from others

President

Education: Some college

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Teschner’s Tavern in Richfield is one of my favorite spots.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Happy clients, a strong team and getting home to enjoy dinner with my family

Rustom Khouri III

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is knowing I’ve made a difference in the lives of our clients and team members while still being present for my family.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Don’t be afraid to try something new, take the trip or go on the adventure you’ve been talking about. Living in the moment and creating great memories is worth it.

Education: University of Toledo

Chris Kamis

Education: Holy Name High School

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I paid my way through flight school by starting my first business when I was 14 years old, detailing planes at a local airport. I earned my pilot’s license when I was 18.

Hurst Design Build Remodel

Favorite Quote: “The harder I work, the luckier I get.” — Samuel Goldwyn What Motivates Me Right Now: My lovely, brilliant granddaughter My Leadership Style: Hands-on, direct and collaborative. I believe in setting high expectations, providing support and leading by example. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: Despite running a busy construction company, I still personally handle a tremendous amount of customer communication, estimating and problem-solving every day. I also love muscle cars and playing drums. An Important Lesson I Learned: The only true way to fail is to give up, so never give up. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with family and friends, attending Cleveland sporting events (especially the Cavs), attending concerts, relaxing up in Put-in-Bay and finding ways to improve the business and support the community

Carnegie Management & Development Corp. Education: Master’s degree in real estate finance, Georgetown University; bachelor’s degree in finance, Fordham University What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is building something meaningful that lasts for years to come. It’s about creating opportunities for others, maintaining strong relationships and leaving every community we enter better than when we arrived. What I Look for in a Leader: Value alignment, intellect and critical problem-solving skills — some see challenges, others see opportunity. Organization and communication skills are at the core of any good leader. Favorite Quote: “You get bad breaks from good shots; you get good breaks from bad shots — but you have to play the ball where it lies.” — Arnold Palmer What Motivates Me Right Now: The opportunity to continue building projects and environments that genuinely improve people’s lives An Important Lesson I Learned: I always assume I am the dumbest person in the room; the smartest is rarely the richest. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Red Tail Golf Club is one of Northeast Ohio’s premier golf destinations.

Doug Lancashire

Adelbert “Chip” Marous

CEO & President

President & CEO

CEO & President

The AKA Team

Education: Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit administration, Cleveland State University; associate degree, Cuyahoga Community College What Success Looks Like to Me: You must be a risk taker. Back in 2011, I had the opportunity to meet President Barack Obama at a small business forum titled “Winning the Future.” I got to sit next to him, and he asked me, ‘What is your secret sauce? How do you feel about taking risks?’ And I told him I’ve been a risk taker all my life. I never feared taking that step over into entrepreneurship — not saying that every step has been successful. The important part is realizing that your failures are part of your journey to success. My Leadership Style: My leadership style is a visionary risk-taker who breaks down barriers in male-dominated industries and actively creates pathways for others. My leadership philosophy centers on economic equity, continuous mentorship and community empowerment. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Harmony HiFi in Ohio City If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Undercover Boss

Kevin J. Nowak President & CEO

CHN Housing Partners/ Believe Mortgage Education: Juris doctor, University of Michigan Law School; bachelor’s degree, University of Michigan How I Approach My Day: I start each day with being thankful for the gifts given to me and trying to spend time with my family and working out. This gets me into the right mindset. From there, I spend time prioritizing the strategic edges of the day that will move the needle. I wind down the day with preparation for the next day and quality family time, keeping myself centered on what is important both professionally and personally. What Success Looks Like to Me: Whether at work or home, success to me is leaving the world better than I found it. Favorite Quote: “What will your legacy be?” What Motivates Me Right Now: Removing barriers to success. Whether the barriers are for our customers, our organization or our industry, I’m determined to help create an enabling environment that allows us to achieve our goals and maximize our impact. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I was an intramural co-ed inner tube water polo champion at U of M.

Osborn Engineering Education: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology What Success Looks Like to Me: True success shows up most clearly in how we respond to challenges. When I see our team come together, think creatively, work hard and push each other to improve our position, that’s when we’re at our best. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for leaders who are committed to something bigger than themselves, those who measure success by the impact they create for the organization and take pride in lifting up their teams and peers along the way. What Motivates Me Right Now: As the leader of a 134-year-old, employee-owned firm, I’m motivated by the responsibility and the opportunity to build something that lasts. My focus is on strengthening every aspect of the business to create a well-rounded, energized and growing firm that is positioned to carry our legacy forward for the next generation. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outside of work, you’ll usually find me spending time with family and friends or relaxing at my lake cottage.

Marous Brothers Construction Education: High School How I Approach My Day: I start my mornings with a clear mind and gratitude, energized and ready to go. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for individuals who lead with passion and energy, aren’t afraid to fail and know how to handle difficult conversations. Above all, I respect leaders who listen, continue learning and believe that work should be done right or not done at all. Favorite Quote: “Do it right or don’t do it at all.” — Del Marous (my father) What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I binge watch TV series; some of my favorites are Peaky Blinders, Suits, Seinfeld, Billions, Reacher and Ozarks. An Important Lesson I Learned: Listening matters more than speaking. The best decisions are informed by perspectives you don’t have, especially from people closest to the work. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with my family and enjoying some of my hobbies (woodworking, scuba diving, working outside, getting ice cream, driving my tractor around my property and taking my cars out for a ride)

Ted Otero

Richard Pace

President

CEO

Otero Living Education: MBA, Cleveland State University; bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Case Western Reserve University How I Approach My Day: I try to approach every day with a positive mindset. I believe that challenges are meant to be solved with determination and a team approach. Every day brings an opportunity to build positive relationships, mentorship, leadership and empathy. What I Look for in a Leader: I look for leaders who are able to make growth happen by properly managing their team, following or creating processes and managing resources properly. Leaders make decisive decisions and are not afraid to make mistakes or pivot when needed. Favorite Quote: “A good plan violently executed today is better than a perfect plan executed next week.” — George Patton

Cumberland Development LLC Education: Bachelor’s degree in architecture, University of Michigan How I Approach My Day: I begin each day with prayer and Bible study. This gives me the insight to put the events of the day into proper context. Favorite Quote: “Americanism means the virtues of courage, honor, justice, truth, sincerity and hardihood — the virtues that made America. The things that will destroy America are prosperity-at-any-price, peaceat-any-price, safety-first instead of duty-first, the love of soft living and the get-rich-quick theory of life.” — Theodore Roosevelt My Leadership Style: Collaborative. I enjoy working with people who are brighter and more creative than I am. It is a thrill to create a whole that is greater than its parts.

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am more of an introvert who appreciates the quiet moments in self-refection.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Exploring and analyzing places that create wonderful experiences, from the architecture of the Arcade to the beauty of the art museum and the orchestra to the serenity of the Metroparks

An Important Lesson I Learned: Having good mentors is the key to business growth and success. Get them early and often and engage.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Eastman Reading Garden. It was artfully designed by Maya Lin and is a secluded oasis in the heart of Downtown.

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Real Estate, Housing, Architects, Building & Construction

Ariane Kirkpatrick

Mike Payne

Paul Spenthoff

Ezra Stark

Principal

Division President

CEO

Payne & Payne Builders

The PulteGroup

Education: Kent State University

Education: Bowling Green State University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Life balance, not just for me, but for those around me

What Success Looks Like to Me: Respected by those I’m closest to — at home and at work. Nothing worthwhile is truly built without respect.

What I Look for in a Leader: Humility, the ability to make their team successful and crediting them for that success Favorite Quote: “Never mistake activity for achievement” and “We are what we repeatedly do; excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.” My Leadership Style: Empowerment — trust and enable your team and they will perform at their highest. An Important Lesson I Learned: Choose your battles. It is easy to get bogged down by short-term challenges that will not affect the long term. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Outdoors — we like to spend time in the mountains, on the ocean and on our recreation property in Pennsylvania. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: The Whiskey Bar — great drinks and a quiet atmosphere! Perfect postgame stop.

What I Look for in a Leader: Leadership requires sacrifice, transparency, integrity and commitment/ passion in the pursuit of team success. I’ve been very fortunate to work for great leaders the last 20-plus years of my career. What Motivates Me Right Now: Improvement each day in my various roles — husband, father, coworker, etc. My Leadership Style: Transparent. I pride myself on “not working in the shadows” with all of my professional partners. If I state our position, that is my intent. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m a certified train conductor. I needed certification to run a locomotive during a summer job in college working at a grain elevator. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: With my wife spending time with daughters London and Emerson, watching them explore their passions in tennis, horseback and dance. Or, enjoying an upland bird hunt with my father and brother in northern Michigan.

Stark Enterprises Education: Master’s degree in real estate finance, New York University; Brandeis University How I Approach My Day: I try to start each day with clarity around priorities, but I also leave room for the unexpected. What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is creating something that lasts — places people enjoy, businesses that thrive, teams that grow and communities that are stronger because of the work we do. My Leadership Style: Collaborative, direct and focused on results. I believe in surrounding myself with talented people, empowering them to do their best work and making sure we are all aligned around the same goals. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I am probably more hands-on than people may expect. I care about the vision, but I also care about the details that make an experience feel special. An Important Lesson I Learned: You cannot build anything meaningful alone. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Shark Tank — not because I want to be on TV, but because I enjoy seeing ideas, entrepreneurship and business strategy come together in real time.

NEO BORN. NEO REIMAGINED. NEO HOME. Congratulations to

KAREN M. FANGER

LOCAL EXPERTISE  UNMATCHED SERVICE Locally owned and managed, K&D offers unparalleled knowledge about Northeast Ohio because we live, work and thrive right here with you. We partner with the cities and communities we call home to foster connections that create welcoming and enriching experiences for our residents and tenants. As your dedicated property management team, we’re on site to help whenever you need us.

PRESIDENT & COO

DOUGLAS E. PRICE, III

BRAND NEW  IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY

MOVE IN TODAY!

CEO

and all the honorees being named in

THE CLEVELAND

500

E X PER I ENCE CLE V EL AND LI V I NG. REIMAGINED. The Electric Building  Residences at 55  The Residences at 668  Residences at 1717  Residences at Halle The Residences at Hanna  Residences at Leader  Stonebridge Waterfront  The Terminal Tower Residences

www.KandD.com

82 Cleveland 500 | 2026 KD-Downtown-CM-Cleveland500_2026-06.indd 1

6/25/2026 3:47:16 PM

Dan Whalen

President & CEO

CEO

Managing Director

North Coast Community Homes Inc.

Vocon

Bedrock

Education: Bachelor’s degree in political science, John Carroll University

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, University of Akron

Education: MBA; bachelor’s degree in English, Case Western Reserve University

How I Approach My Day: I approach my day by being hyper organized for the scheduled activities so I can be flexible enough to do everything in between.

What Success Looks Like to Me: Every day, we strive to make life just a little better for our residents and team members.

What I Look for in a Leader: I gravitate toward leaders who are not afraid to get their hands dirty and display a high level of emotional intelligence to maximize the positive impact to individuals and the overall team.

What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who is deeply mission focused and genuinely enjoys being part of a collaborative team

What Success Looks Like to Me: Seeing constant and consistent measurable improvement in whatever it is one sets out to accomplish. The best goals are never fully achievable, so the mission becomes hitting milestones and raising the bar so that it’s always slightly out of reach.

Favorite Quote: “You can only control what you say or do, no matter how hard you try.” If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: Snoop Dogg What Motivates Me Right Now: Positively impacting my family, friends, internal and external customers through first listening, then understanding how hard work, collaboration and humility can lead to wellreceived outcomes An Important Lesson I Learned: Always tell the truth — it is easy to remember. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Golfing, mountain biking or skiing with friends and family A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Ray’s Indoor Bike Park

Richard Bancroft

Executive Director BIA of Northeast Ohio

Sherri Brandon

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have visited Walt Disney World nearly 30 times, which has given me a deep appreciation for the impact of thoughtful, consistent service. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Spending time with my grandchildren is one of my greatest joys, and it reminds me of the importance of creating meaningful moments with the people we care about most. A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: One of my favorite places to relax and enjoy a great meal is The Oak Barrel. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I would love the opportunity to star as Michael Scott in The Office — bringing humor, heart and just the right amount of awkward charm to the role.

William Cromling III Co-Owner Ross Environmental Services Inc.

Greg Geis

Owner & CEO GEIS Cos.

J. David Heller

What I Look for in a Leader: Adaptability, accountability, honesty, directness, self-awareness, selflessness and resourcefulness Favorite Quote: “If you’re worried about the cost of going for it, you should see the price of staying exactly where you are.” What Motivates Me Right Now: Building a team that can reshape Cleveland’s trajectory for generations — leveraging both the platform and long-term commitment behind Dan Gilbert’s vision, while getting to have our fingerprints on what it all eventually becomes. An Important Lesson I Learned: When the door of opportunity is cracked open, you’ve got to be the one to kick the door in. Great opportunities don’t come around often, and I’ve passed up a few that I wish I hadn’t.

Bo Knez

President & CEO BR Knez Construction Inc.

CEO Front Steps Housing and Services

George Davis III

President & Founder ProBuilt Homes

President, CEO & Co-Founder The NRP Group

Darrin Kotecki

John Carney

Mike Dilley

Doug Hensel

Ronald Ledin

Co-Founder & Managing Partner Landmark Cos. LLC

Andrew “Bubba” Coleman

Managing Director & Market Leader for Cleveland/Akron CBRE

Jenice Contreras

President & CEO Northeast Ohio Hispanic Center for Economic Development

Peter Corogin

President & CEO Lake Erie Electric

Terry Coyne

Executive Vice Chairman Newmark Ohio

CEO Donley’s Inc.

James Drexinger

CEO Associated Materials

Jim Eppele

President & CEO Jacobs Real Estate Services LLC

Karen M. Fanger President & COO K&D Group

John Ferchill

Chairman & CEO Ferchill Group

Melissa FerchillSwingos Owner & President MCM Co. Inc.

Vice President of Operations Ryan Homes

Matt Janiak

Senior Principal, Northeast Region DLR Group

Jason Jones

Senior Vice President & Regional General Manager Turner Construction Co.

Mike Kamis

Vice President Absolute Roofing & Construction Inc.

Tim King

Region President K. Hovnanian Homes, Ohio Division

President GPD Group

Chairman of the Board & President Middough Inc.

Sandra Madison

Kyle Merrill

Senior Vice President, Cleveland Business Leader Gilbane Building Co.

Gary Naim

President & Co-Owner Petros Homes Inc.

Travis Nelson CEO Diversified Fall Protection

Chairman & CEO Robert P. Madison International

James Orr

Ari Maron

Rick Osborne Jr.

Partner MRN Ltd.

Garry Marsoubian President & CEO MLS Now

Mark Mead

President Gunton Corp.

Tania Menesse

President & CEO Cleveland Neighborhood Progress

President & Owner Dover Home Remodelers Managing Director of Commercial Real Estate The Osborne Group

Dominic Ozanne

President & CEO Ozanne Construction Co.

Tony Panzica

CEO Panzica Construction

Gayle Pinchot

President Frank Novak & Sons

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 83

Real Estate, Housing, Architects, Building & Construction

Chris West

Paul Voinovich

Douglas E. Price III

Don Taylor

Russell Rogers

Gareth Vaughan

CEO K&D Group

Senior Vice President & Principal Colliers International

James Ruhlin Jr. President & CEO The Ruhlin Co.

Neil Sackett

CEO & Chairman Carter Lumber

Mitchell Schneider

Founder & Executive Chairman First Interstate Properties

John P. Snavely Sr. Chairman Snavely Group

President & CEO Welty Building Co. Chairman & CEO The Albert M. Higley Co.

Daniel Walsh

Founder & CEO Citymark Capital

Mark Wells President MFS Supply

Matt Wilson

Regional Operations Manager Kokosing Industrial

Matthew Wymer

Vice President & Principal WXZ Development

Bryce Sylvester

MAT T SEXTON

Managing Director Cushman & Wakefield | CRESCO

Congratulations Pat & Dan Hurst

The team at Hurst Design Build Remodel celebrates the leadership, integrity, & vision that strengthen our team, our company, our community, and our industry. Congratulations to all CLEVELAND 500 honorees.

HurstRemodel.com

84 Cleveland 500 | 2026

440-234-5656

Technology

ALEX FARMER

Technology

clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 85

Shane M. Bigelow

Hiroyuki Fujita

Patrick Ghilani

CEO & Co-Founder

Founder & CEO

CEO

CHAMP

Education: Master’s degree, Fordham University; bachelor’s degree, University of Notre Dame How I Approach My Day: As we endeavor to grow as quickly as possible, I try to schedule every 15 minutes of my day. A strong focus on time efficiency allows us to accomplish more and encourages better preparation for every meeting and event. Favorite Quote: “If you aren’t living for the story, then you just aren’t living.” — Me If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: My kids. I’d love a front row seat to their perspective, if only to see how I’m doing as a dad. What Motivates Me Right Now: Creating an environment both at home and at CHAMP where the people around me have the support and resources to thrive. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I have an annual, non-negotiable July 4th tradition: watching the Nathan’s Hotdog Eating Contest.

Quality Electrodynamics Education: Doctoral degree in physics, Case Western Reserve University; D.Sc., Waseda University; bachelor’s degree in mathematics and physics, Monmouth College How I Approach My Day: One step at a time What I Look for in a Leader: A positive and optimistic mindset Favorite Quote: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward. So, you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future.” — Steve Jobs My Leadership Style: Quiet and decisive An Important Lesson I Learned: Being consistent is very important. Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: At a golf course If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Lord Yoshi Toranaga in Shogun

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Cordelia — amazing, creative food paired with exceptional hospitality from a knowledgeable team that truly understands service If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: It would be fun to play Thomas Crowne (ideally the Pierce Brosnan version).

Felicia Johnson President & CEO Future Forward Intelligence Group

Education: Master’s and bachelor’s degrees in computer science What Success Looks Like to Me: If the people and communities around me are stronger because I showed up, that’s success. What I Look for in a Leader: In a leader I look for authenticity, humility, courage and curiosity. The best leaders do not pretend to have all the answers. They ask great questions, listen deeply, make tough decisions when necessary and inspire others to believe in something bigger than themselves. Bonus points if they have a sense of humor. What Motivates Me Right Now: Pure possibility. We are living through one of the most transformative moments in history with the inclusion of AI, and Cleveland has an opportunity to lead.

An Important Lesson I Learned: The most valuable asset you will ever build (and lose just as easily) is trust. 86 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business-supply chain management, Michigan State University If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: I would trade places with my dog, Tiger. He really has a great life. What Motivates Me Right Now: I’m motivated by building something that lasts: a culture that performs, a platform strategy that delivers real value (not hype) and a company that gives back. My Leadership Style: I don’t lead for comfort; I lead for results, and I believe excellence is non-negotiable. At the same time, I care deeply about building a culture of engagement, empowerment and belonging so we can be open and consistent in how we communicate as we grow and change. What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: My journey didn’t start with enterprise tech. It started with a pair of drumsticks and a dream of being a rock star. An Important Lesson I Learned: Sustainable growth starts inside the company. Strategy matters, but culture is the multiplier. If people don’t believe you can win, you won’t. That’s why I’ve always focused on engagement, empowerment and communication, and on turning feedback into real, actionable improvements instead of vague complaints.

Charlie Lougheed

Mel McGee

CEO

CEO & Co-Founder

Axuall Education: John Carroll University How I Approach My Day: I try to approach every day with the knowledge that I can’t do everything, but that the things I choose to work on and coach align with our mission to improve access to care through better data and information. What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is the positive change brought about by our team’s innovation and commitment, which ultimately improves our clients’ ability to meet patient demand in the most cost-efficient manner. Our contribution to that is actionable data, insights and workflow integration that enables that. What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who takes a team where they wouldn’t have gone on their own. Great leaders create environments of accountability by positively reinforcing the extent to which their team members depend on one another and what’s expected of them. Favorite Quote: “Speed kills, especially when you don’t have it.” What Motivates Me Right Now: The knowledge that, in our small way, what Axuall is doing can improve the human condition. That is super difficult, but wow, it’s worth the effort!

SkillSpout

Education: Graduate certificate, Gestalt Institute of Cleveland; graduate studies, Cleveland State University; bachelor’s degree, Case Western Reserve University How I Approach My Day: Exercise and coffee before I touch a screen. Then I check what my AI systems ran overnight and plan the day with my agents, leaning on a skill that surfaces the three things most aligned with my goals so I stay focused on what actually matters. Favorite Quote: “Do not fear mistakes. There are none.” — Miles Davis What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: Right after 9/11, I met futurist Howard Rheingold in the lobby of New York’s Roosevelt Hotel so he could interview me for his book Smart Mobs, wearing a computer I’d built by hand with a heads-up display over one eye, basically Meta glasses two decades early. A Secret Service detail there for a visiting dignitary watched me the whole time, whispering into their sleeves, while I sat there looking like a cyborg from the future. Then, Howard and I walked the city while I used my rig to pull up directions and snap photos — a real novelty at the time.

MEL MCGEE: KEVIN KOPANSKI

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m a professional homebody. Sundays are officially “Felicia Day”— phone off, no meetings, no networking and absolutely no pants with buttons. Also, fun fact: I live in the home where Carl Stokes lived while serving as Mayor of Cleveland.

MRI Software

Technology

Dawn Schaible Center Director

NASA Glenn Research Center Education: Master’s degree in engineering and management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology How I Approach My Day: I approach each day with a positive, focused mindset but remain flexible should I need to pivot at a moment’s notice. Favorite Quote: “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” — Maya Angelou If I Could Trade Places With Anyone: If I had to, I’d switch with someone sitting on the deck of a cruise ship. What Motivates Me Right Now: Serving the NASA Glenn workforce and building a strong partnership with the community to ensure a vibrant and growing future for NASA and Cleveland What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I recently joined a Taiko (Japanese) drumming group.

RUSS L ANG

An Important Lesson I Learned: Leaders and role models are human too; they will make mistakes. If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: It would be extraordinary to be the first person to colonize Mars, so starring in The Martian could help me prepare!

DISCOVERY days Sept. 18 and 19 | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Great Lakes Science Center

Congratulations to Armada Growth Partners (AGP) President Tricia Lucas for being named to the Cleveland 500 We salute Tricia and all the Cleveland 500 honorees.

Risk is inevitable. Growth is intentional.

Armada-Growth.com clevelandmagazine.com/500 | Cleveland 500 87

Jason Therrien President & CEO thunder::tech

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, John Carroll University

Chris Adams

Dan Popkin

Brittany Trafis

Patrick Brown

Steve Potash

Mike Trebilcock

President & CEO Park Place Technologies

Favorite Quote: From the movie The Shawshank Redemption: “Get busy living or get busy dying.”

CEO OEConnection

What Motivates Me Right Now: My kids and the everevolving world we live in. During times of change, an abundance mindset creates opportunity all around us.

Arnon Chait

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I’m a hot sauce aficionado. If you’re not sweating, are you really eating?

Jitesh Ghai

An Important Lesson I Learned: Careers are long, so invest in the people around you, as they will make a difference to your success over time.

Kevin Johnson

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: With family and typically outdoors on the water or the snow

John Leskiw

Chief Innovation Officer Cleveland Diagnostics President & CEO Hyland Software Managing Partner NexGen Interactive LLC President & CEO Quadax Inc.

Michael Ode

CEO & President Foundation Software

88 Cleveland 500 | 2026

Sector Vice President Trimble Transportation Founder, President & CEO OverDrive Inc.

James Rhyu

CEO & Board Chair Tech Elevator, A Stride Company

Neil Schrimsher President & CEO Applied Industrial Technologies

John Stubbs

Chairman & CEO Mac Productions Inc.

Gabriel Torok CEO Budah

CEO and Co-Founder Soarion Digital Chairman & CEO MCPc

Adam Tubbs

CEO FIT Technologies

Mark Woodka CEO OnShift

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CONGRATULATES the leaders recognized on the

CLEVELAND 500 LIST and our own

JIM CARULAS & JIM ROLLINS We appreciate all the remarkable leaders in Northeast Ohio who help make our region a great place to live, work and play!

Jim Carulas, CPA Senior Partner Meaden & Moore

Jim Rollins, CPA

Chief Executive Officer Meaden & Moore

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