GWelcome from Leadership
ood evening and welcome to the 2024 OMSDC Annual Awards Gala, a celebration of Excellence in Supplier Diversity under the banner of our powerful theme: “Still A Business Imperative.”
Tonight, we gather to honor the visionaries, trailblazers, and collaborators who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing supplier diversity and economic equity. This evening is not just about awards; it’s about celebrating the partnerships and shared purpose that drive meaningful change in our business community.
We are here to recognize the extraordinary efforts of Corporations, Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), and individuals who exemplify innovation, resilience, and leadership in fostering inclusion. Your presence tonight reaffirms the belief that diversity is not just a value—it’s a vital cornerstone for success in business and beyond.
This Gala reflects the power of partnership between corporations and minority-owned businesses to uplift communities, transform industries, and build bridges to a better future. The stories we celebrate tonight inspire us all and remind us why supplier diversity remains a business imperative.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, supporters, and the incredible members of the OMSDC family who make this work possible. Your unwavering commitment enables us to champion economic equity and create a landscape where diversity thrives.
As we honor tonight’s exceptional achievements, let us also recommit to the work ahead. Together, we can continue to break barriers, create opportunities, and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous tomorrow.
Thank you for joining us for this special evening. Your presence and passion drive the progress we celebrate tonight, and we are so glad to share this journey with you.
Christopher Che MBEIC Chair | Ohio MSDC Board of Directors President and CEO
Che International Group, LLC & Transworld Supply Network, LLC
Abigail W. Kofete Chair | Ohio MSDC Board of Directors
Black Belt, Operational Excellence Global Supply Chain Cardinal Health
George R. Simms President and CEO Ohio MSDC
Dive into the world of w3r, where we seamlessly blend talent and technology to uplift your enterprise:
• Talent Solutions: w3r recognizes the essence of success in diverse industries. We expertly attract and retain top-tier talent tailored to your needs.
• Data & Digital Enablement: Our experts transform data into actionable insights, enhancing decision-making and fortifying your business’s frontline.
• Business Solutions: Intelligence and efficiency define our approach. Our solutions streamline operations, setting you on a path to outpace competitors.
At Cardinal Health, we strive to deliver solutions that help our customers thrive in a world that’s constantly evolving. We are proud of our robust supplier diversity program that, through training, development and mentorship, our work enables the growth of our diverse suppliers and generate economic vitality in underrepresented communities across the U.S.
Our approximately 48,000 colleagues span the globe with unique backgrounds, views and ideas and are motivated by our mission to distribute products and services that improve lives every day.
Together, we work to ensure that our entire supply chain reflects our core values as we foster diverse supplier relationships that not only enhance innovation and supplier competition, but also vibrantly enrich the communities where we live and work.
Diverse suppliers can register your company at cardinalhealth.com/supplierdiversity
Evening Program
OPENING RECEPTION & SILENT AUCTION
WELCOME FROM THE LEADERSHIP
George R. Simms | President & CEO, OMSDC
Abigail W. Kofete | Chair, OMSDC Board of Directors
Christopher C. Che | MBEIC Chair, OMSDC Board of Directors
INVOCATION ...........................................................................Dawn Satterwhite | Crossroads Church
DINNER IS SERVED
WELCOME FROM THE CO-CHAIRS .....................................Crystal Kendrick | President, The Voice of Your Customer
Angelo Keeling | Purchasing Manager, Procter & Gamble
Rodney Johnson | Senior VP, Diversity & Community, Gallagher
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH PRESENTATION
OMSDC UNIVERSITY FUND-A-NEED ..................................LaTasha Simms | OMSDC U Project Leader
Founder & CEO, 3LLC Consulting & Services
IN MEMORIAM ........................................................................Abigail W. Kofete
PRESENTATION OF CATHY C. MOCK
Cathy C. Mock | Past Member, OMSDC Board of Directors LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Abigail W. Kofete
PRESENTATION OF MBE AWARDS ......................................Yolanda Ortiz-Parker | STERIS Corporation
Jonathan Dawkins | Turner Construction
Tasha Wood | NiSource
PRESENTATION OF CORPORATE AWARDS
WRAP UP AND CLOSING MESSAGE
Carl Satterwhite | Owner & CEO, RCF Group
Christopher Che
Crystal Kendrick
George R. Simms | Abigail W. Kofete | Christopher Che
GALA AFTER PARTY ..................................................................w/ DJ Vader
SILENT AUCTION WINNERS ANNOUNCED
End of Gala
pep was founded in 2004 to fill a void in the marketing services space; over the last 20 years, pep has grown to be an industry leader in consumer activation.
We integrate into our clients’ teams to bring industry expertise and thought leadership. We are stewards of their marketing investments with a focus on driving sales and efficiency. We partner to develop and implement a full range of activation tactics from incentives, sampling, and sweepstakes to POP, premiums, displays, and highly complex digital promotions.
Our expert talent utilizes a scaled approach to process optimization, speed to market, risk mitigation, and proprietary systems to deliver effective plans and cost efficiencies to our clients.
pep is committed to contributing to the growth of the diverse business community by partnering with Diverse Business Enterprises (DBEs) who offer high quality products, services, and innovation. By identifying diverse suppliers who meet our business needs, we strive to leverage their unique abilities for the greatest impact to pep and our clients. Through building and maintaining strong relationships with minority, women, veteran, LGBTQ+ and persons with disabilities owned companies, pep supports an inclusive business environment and is committed to the prosperity of diverse communities.
Please
rachel.davis@peppromotions.com 513.290.7360 peppromotions.com
WAnnual Awards Gala Chairs
elcome to the 2024 Ohio Minority Supplier Development Council Annual Awards Gala! As Chairs of the Planning Committee, it is our great honor to welcome you as we come together as a powerful community, united by our shared dedication to fostering diversity, inclusion, and economic equity within the business world. This evening is a reflection of the strength and impact of our collective efforts, and your presence makes it all the more meaningful.
To our valued attendees, thank you for being part of this special night. Your support and enthusiasm are the driving force behind the progress we celebrate and the inspiration that fuels our mission.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, whose generosity and commitment have made tonight possible. Your belief in the work of OMSDC empowers us to continue championing opportunities for minority-owned businesses.
To our incredible volunteers, your hard work and passion behind the scenes are the foundation of this event’s success. We couldn’t do this without your dedication and tireless efforts—thank you.
Lastly, to the entire minority business community, your resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence are the backbone of this movement. Together, we are building a more inclusive business landscape that benefits us all.
As we honor tonight’s exceptional awardees, let us also look ahead to the journey before us. Each step we take together strengthens the foundation for a brighter, more equitable future.
Welcome once again to the 2024 Annual Awards Gala! Let tonight be a celebration of our shared successes and a renewed commitment to the work that lies ahead. We are so grateful to share this evening with you.
Rodney Johnson Co-Chair | 2024 Annual Awards Gala Senior Vice President, Diversity & Community Gallagher
Crystal Kendrick Co-Chair | 2024 Annual Awards Gala President The Voice of Your Customer
Angelo Keeling Co-Chair | 2024 Annual Awards Gala Purchasing Manager Procter & Gamble
Partner with us
Cincinnati Children’s knows that working with—and investing in—diverse suppliers helps us accomplish our vision to be the leader in improving child health. We partner with suppliers in the many communities where we live and work to help build vital economies. Ideal suppliers are agile, innovative, and responsive to changing market conditions, all while delivering the highest quality products and services. Interested in learning more? Talk to us today by emailing supplierdiversity@cchmc.org.
BETTER TOGETHER
At Fifth Third, we believe inclusion fuels innovation and growth. It ’s at the heart of who we are and what we do. Together, we’re driving business results and building stronger communities.
Fifth Third Bank is proud to support OMSDC.
George R. Simms President & CEO gsimms@ohiomsdc.org
Eric A. Westley Director of MBE Services ewestley@ohiomsdc.org
Demetrius J. Smith MBE Services Manager dsmith@ohiomsdc.org
OMSDC Leadership Team
James Price Director of Corporate Relations jprice@ohiomsdc.org
Angela Nagal Programs & Events Manager anagal@ohiomsdc.org
Shcarra Benn Certification Assistant sbenn@ohiomsdc.org
Shellevina Patterson Director of Finance spatterson@ohiomsdc.org
Gayle Troy MBE Services Manager gtroy@ohiomsdc.org
Modular Assembly Innovations is an award-winning, world-class automotive manufacturing solutions company with renowned customer service and satisfaction.
Modular Assembly Innovations • Dublin, OH
LIFE’S POTENTIAL FOR ALL
Honda is proud to support the Ohio Minority Supplier Development Council.
We believe that all people should be afforded the opportunity to fulfill their life’s potential. That’s why we remain committed to strengthening inclusion, diversity, and equity in the communities where we live and work.
Award Presentations
MBE AWARDS PRESENTERS
Yolanda Ortiz-Parker
Director of Indirect Sourcing
Supplier Diversity & ESG
STERIS Corporation
OMSDC Membership Committee
Jonathan Dawkins
Procurement Manager
Turner Construction
OMSDC Membership Committee
CORPORATE AWARDS PRESENTERS
Christopher Che
President & CEO
Transworld Supply Network & Che International Group
MBEIC Chair
Carl Satterwhite
President & CEO
RCF Group
MBEIC Vice Chair, Cincinnati Region
Tasha Wood
Supplier Diversity Manager
NiSource
OMSDC Membership Committee
Crystal Kendrick
President
The Voice of Your Customer
Asst. MBEIC Vice Chair, Cincinnati Region
CATHY
C. MOCK LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD PRESENTERS
Cathy C. Mock
Past Member
OMSDC Board of Directors
Abigail W. Kofete
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt - Global Supply Chain
Cardinal Health
Chair, OMSDC Board of Directors
Awards Finalists
MBE AWARD FINALISTS
CORPORATE AWARD FINALISTS
Stephanie Burton
Supplier Diversity & Inclusion Manager
The Kroger Co.
Yolanda Ortiz-Parker
Director of Indirect Sourcing
Supplier Diversity & ESG
STERIS Corporation
Angelo Keeling
Purchasing Manager
Procter & Gamble
Sherita Scott
Health & Beauty Care
Category Manager
The Kroger Co.
Chanel Norton-Lee
Head of Supplier Diversity
Victoria’s Secret
Tasha M. Wood
Supplier Diversity Manager
NiSource
Stephen Markovich, MD President and CEO, OhioHealth
“We
Mandie DeWine Supplier Diversity Manager, OhioHealth
“We
By keeping our core values like inclusion at the forefront, we are able to expand new and trusted relationships within Supplier Diversity.”
Together, we are continuing to build healthier communities of inclusion.
At Premier Health, we know that in order to provide high quality, cost-effective care to the diverse communities we serve, we are committed to a diverse work force where every person is treated with dignity and respect. Our priority is to ensure that we consistently move toward a culture of inclusion that encourages every employee to bring their best every day, where every patient and family member feels safe and comforted, and where suppliers reflect the diverse communities we serve.
For more information on our commitment to diversity, visit PREMIERHEALTH.COM/DIVERSITY.
Cathy C. Mock Lifetime Achievement Award
Created in 2017, the Cathy C. Mock Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an individual’s strong commitment over many years to supplier diversity and economic inclusion.
Clifford A. Bailey
A Legacy of Leadership, Advocacy, and Innovation
Clifford A. Bailey’s career is marked by impactful leadership, dedicated service, and a steadfast commitment to advancing minority business enterprise.
A proud graduate of Tuskegee University with a BS in Chemical Engineering, Clifford has combined his technical expertise with his passion for empowering others to drive meaningful change.
As the founder, president, and CEO of TechSoft Systems, Inc., Clifford has led his Cincinnati-based Managed Services Provider company since 1983. Specializing in network consulting, infrastructure management, IT data architecture, cybersecurity, and
IT staff outsourcing, TechSoft Systems helps clients maximize their technological investments with cutting-edge solutions.
Clifford’s leadership extends beyond business. A long-standing member of the OMSDC Board of Directors and former Chair of both the Ohio and National Minority Business Enterprise Input Committees, he has been a tireless advocate for economic inclusion. His influence reaches beyond Ohio, inspiring national and international efforts to foster diversity and inclusion in business.
Through his innovative programs—The Prism Paradigm: Organization Growth through Employee Development™ and S.H.A.P.E.: Securing Higher Achievement & Personal Effectiveness™—as well as his Procurement SaaS platform, PROCURIENCE™, Clifford continues to inspire individuals and organizations to break barriers and achieve success.
Clifford A. Bailey’s legacy is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and innovation in creating opportunities and fostering an inclusive future for all.
ZONES DELIVERS IT SOLUTIONS AND SERVICES WITH A COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY.
For over 35 years, Zones has been delivering comprehensive IT solutions and services globally.
Our focus on Cloud and Data Center, Networking, Digital Workplace, and Security services can streamline operations, optimize workflows, and enhance your bottom line. But at Zones, we're more than just IT experts – we're dedicated to championing diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Our technology solutions are made to fuel your business's success with pre-sales and service delivery, IT procurement, and end-to-end project management that's second to none. Whether you're a small business or a large enterprise, Zones has the expertise and experience to provide the right solutions and services for your unique needs. Contact us at supplier.diversity@zones.com or visit www.zones.com/mbe to get started.
Thank You To Our Sponsors
Queerencia is a Black & LGBTQ+ owned brand that merges queer history and culture with trendy products to better educate and encourage all types of queer people to be bold and proud of who they are.
Welcome to Queerencia - the ultimate destination for all your LGBTQ+ apparel and accessory needs! We are proud to offer a wide range of products that celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community
Our collection includes everything from t-shirts and hoodies to hats and clack fans, all featuring bold and beautiful designs that showcase your pride and support for the LGBTQ+ community.
But Queerencia is more than just a clothing brand - we are a movement We believe that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Our mission is to promote understanding, acceptance, and love, and to create a brighter future for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
So why not show your support for Queerencia and the LGBTQ+ community by shopping with us today? Visit our website to browse our collection and find the perfect product to showcase your pride and support.
Join the Queerencia movement today and wear your Pride!
Shop Queerencia at www queerencia co
Thank You To Our Planning Committee
The success of the 2024 Annual Awards Gala is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our Planning Committee. Collaborating closely with the OMSDC Leadership Team, they have meticulously planned, organized, and overseen every aspect of this evening’s celebration.
Their energy and commitment have made all the difference, and we are deeply grateful for their efforts in bringing this event to life. Thank you for making tonight’s Gala a truly unforgettable experience!
Angelo Keeling | Co-Chair Procter & Gamble
Crystal Kendrick | Co-Chair The Voice of Your Customer
Rodney Johnson | Co-Chair Gallagher
Camille Burt Procter & Gamble
Omara Kazadi-Abe Gallagher
Hunter Kincaid Procter & Gamble
Rudy Jones Gallagher
Daniel Dunn Past Board Member | Signature Events Volunteer
Shcarra Benn OMSDC
Angela Nagal OMSDC
Shellevina Patterson OMSDC
James Price OMSDC
George R. Simms OMSDC
Demetrius Smith OMSDC
Gayle Troy OMSDC
Eric Westley OMSDC
Messer Construction Co. is a proud sponsor of the 2024 OMSDC Annual Awards Gala.
OMSDC Board of Directors
Billion Dollar ROUNDTABLE
The Billion Dollar Roundtable was created in 2001 to recognize and celebrate corporations that achieved spending of at least $1 billion with minority and woman-owned suppliers. The BDR promotes and shares best practices in supply chain diversity excellence through the production of white papers. In discussions, the members review common issues, opportunities and strategies.
The BDR encourages corporate entities to continue growing their supplier diversity programs by increasing commitment and spending levels each year. The BDR inducts new members bi-annually.
The following OMSDC Corporate Members are members of the Billion Dollar Roundtable:
A MINORITY-OWNED CONSTRUCTION FIRM OFFERING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES INCLUDING CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, PREFABRICATION + PROCUREMENT
OMSDC Corporate Members
OMSDC extends its heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support and commitment of its Corporate Members. Your partnership is the cornerstone of our success, and we couldn’t do our vital work without you. Thank you for standing with us and championing the cause of diversity, inclusion, and economic equity.
AJ Gallagher
Baker & Hostetler LLP
Bath & Body Works, Inc.
Bechtel Corporation
Cardinal Health
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital
City of Columbus
Cleveland Cliffs
Cleveland Clinic Health System
Cleveland MetroParks
Columbus Partnership, The
Columbus Regional Airport Authority
Columbus Urban League
Crown Equipment Corporation
Cuyahoga Community College
Duke Energy
Eaton Corporation
Encore Funding
Encova Insurance
Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati
Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland
Fifth Third Bank
First Financial Bank
FirstEnergy
Gilbane Building Company
Hamilton County
Hensel Phelps
Honda of America Mfg., Inc.
Huseman Group Construction - HGC
Hylant
Imagine Schools-Ohio InfraSource
Intel Corporation
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Kettering Health
Kimball Midwest
The Kroger Co.
Libbey, Inc.
MassMutual
Messer Construction Co.
Metro/SORTA
MetroHealth System, The Metroparks Toledo
MGM Northfield Park
Miami University
Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission
Nationwide Children’s Hospital
Nationwide Insurance
Nature Conservancy, The NiSource
Oatey
Ohio Development Services Agency
OhioHealth
Ohio State University, The PEP (Promotion Execution Partners)
Port of Greater. Cincinnati Development Authority
Premier Health
Procter & Gamble Co., The Rockwell Automation
Sinclair Community College
Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO)
STERIS Corporation
Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority
Trans Ash
Turner Construction Company
University of Cincinnati
US Bank
Victoria’s Secret
Westfield Insurance
Worthington Industries, Inc.
