Akron Roundtable Podcast

TABLEAU 2022: Tableau is Akron Roundtable's annual fundraising dinner which sets the stage for an evening of great discussion with a celebrated speaker. Our special guest, Connie Schultz, will step away from the podium to share personal insights and life experiences in an intimate conversation with Justin Hilton, Executive Director, Leadership Akron. Your generosity by attending this fundraiser will help Akron Roundtable bring exceptional speakers to Northeast Ohio. Speaker: Connie Schultz is a Pulitzer Prize winning columnist for USA Today and author of the New York Times bestselling novel, The Daughters of Erietown. She is also a Professional in Residence at Kent State University's School of Media & Journalism, where she teaches opinion writing, feature writing and ethics. Schultz has been featured for her work in numerous publications and interviews, including The New Yorker, NPR, Politico, Kirkus Reviews Magazine, Glamour, Columbia Journalism Review, The Washington Post, and Ohio Magazine. Her book reviews appear regularly in The Washington Post, and she has also written for The New York Times, Politico, Parade, The Atlantic, Time, The Nation, Glamour, Democracy Journal and ESPN Magazine, among others. For more event details and full speaker bio please visit: https://bit.ly/3eRT9Jt

Speaker: Rich Kramer is Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. He became CEO in 2010 and was elected Chairman by Goodyear's Board of Directors later the same year. For more event details and full speaker bio please visit bit.ly/3iQdj8w

Speaker: Jerika L. Richardson is Senior Vice President for Equitable Justice & Strategic Initiatives at the National Urban League. She leads the organization's advocacy, public education, and strategic work on civic engagement, voting rights, police reform, criminal justice reform, and other justice related areas. Moderator: Marlene Harris-Taylor is director of engaged journalism which includes managing Ideastream Public Media's health team and the special project Connecting the Dots Between Race and Health. Prior to this role she was the managing producer of health for two years and a reporter on the health team for more than three years. For more event details and full speaker bio please visit bit.ly/3h5D2cz

Speaker: Christopher Wilkins became Music Director of the Akron Symphony in the fall of 2006. Since then the orchestra's programming has reflected his strong interest in community-oriented projects. He has developed partnerships with many artists and organizations based in Northeast Ohio, including the Akron Art Museum, Akron-Summit County Public Library, Firestone High School, Summit County Historical Society, YEPAW 365, GroundWorks Dance Theater, Neos Dance Theatre, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. For more event details and full speaker bio please visit bit.ly/3W3AaLM

Presentation: The role of public education is to ensure every child in America is provided an opportunity to reach their full potential in ways that prepare them for success in a global society. The pandemic, however, exposed glaring inequities in America's education system, and school districts were forced to rethink the way they've operated over the last century. Hear Christine Fowler Mack, Superintendent of Akron Public Schools, talk about these issues and more. Speaker: Born and raised in Akron and educated in Akron Public Schools (APS), Superintendent Christine Fowler Mack is an experienced school district leader whose first classroom experience was in the APS system as a teacher at Robinson Elementary School from 1989 – 1995. Following that, Fowler Mack was a student dean and teacher leader for two years in APS. For more event details and full speaker bio please visit https://bit.ly/3DhJvJm

Speaker: Mike Crawford is the Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer for Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Company and its subsidiaries, including Hall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls, which he joined in December of 2018. Mr. Crawford spent almost 25 years at the Walt Disney Company. He rose to Senior Vice President and General Manager of Shanghai Disney Resort and President of Shanghai's Walt Disney Holdings Company.   For full speaker bio and event details visit: https://bit.ly/3S5J7SY

Presentation: Why do Black American women suffer a 300% maternal mortality rate as compared to white women? Why do Native American babies suffer the highest infant mortality rate in the developed world? Why are BIPOC Americans charged and incarcerated at a rate of 6-9 times that of white Americans despite comparable crime rates. And how do we R.I.S.E. up to these challenges in a meaningful way? Speaker: Qasim Rashid is a human rights attorney based in Chicago. Mr. Rashid's practice focuses on matters dealing with civil rights, immigration, non-profits, consulting, media, and political consulting. Mr. Rashid began his legal career working for a major financial institution to build out consumer finance protection policies and help manage corporate litigation for a $1.2B portfolio. He then pivoted his practice to include non-profit and civil rights matters, where he has worked with several national non-profit organizations focused on women's rights, racial justice, and religious freedom. For full speaker bio and event details visit: https://bit.ly/3Dk7dVZ

Presentation: This presentation, given on August 18th, 2016, was part of the Akron Roundtable's 40th Anniversary series, in which several key speakers from over the decades were invited to return to the Roundtable podium. Speaker: Dr. Austen, born and raised in Akron, Ohio, received his BS degree in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his MD degree from Harvard Medical School. He was appointed Chief of the Surgical Services at the MGH in 1969 at the age of 39 and he held that position for almost 29 years. Dr. Austen was active in numerous roles throughout his life including serving as a Founding Trustee of Partners HealthCare System, the Founding President and CEO of the Massachusetts General Physicians Organization (MGPO), a member of the National Academy of Medicine, a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, a Life Member Emeritus of the MIT Corporation (Board of Trustees) and Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Trustees of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. Dr. W. Gerald Austen passed away in September of 2022. For full speaker bio and event details visit: https://bit.ly/3ewDKh5  

Presentation: The last two and a half years has been a time of significant disruption. Carey will share theories on societal and business disruption and how GOJO continues to leverage its values to support the world's increased need for PURELL® products despite this disruption. Speaker: Carey Jaros has led GOJO Industries as President and Chief Executive Officer since January 2020 and has been with the company since 2014. She brings passion for GOJO's Purpose — Saving Lives and Making Life Better Through Well-Being Solutions — to her daily work. Her focus is on continuously extending GOJO leadership as a market-making, growth-oriented company that cares about the health and wel-being of people both out in the world and within its own walls. For full event details and speaker bio visit: https://bit.ly/3MdvwH0

Presentation: Many would acknowledge that we are entering a third wave of access to public higher education in America. We will review the first two waves of access, the markers of this third wave, and discuss changes in who pays for the cost of earning a college education, with Kent State University offered as an example of these trends. Speaker: Todd Diacon became Kent State University's 13th president in July 2019. A tireless advocate for student success, President Diacon has more than 30 years of experience in higher education leadership. For full event details and speaker bio visit: https://bit.ly/3tkcExE

Presentation Ohio is an aging state. Explore Ohio's plan to take on ageism, eliminate disparities and inequities among older Ohioans, and create a state where Ohioans live longer, healthier lives with dignity and autonomy. Speaker Jennifer Carlson is the Ohio Department of Aging's Assistant Director. In the role, she drives the development of innovative policy and programs to improve the health, wellness, and safety of older Ohioans. Carlson also serves as chief advisor to the department's director, Ursel J. McElroy. For full event details and speaker bio visit: https://bit.ly/3x440Ft

Presentation Widely recognized as one of the defining features of our community, Summit Metro Parks celebrated its centennial anniversary in 2021. With the support of Summit County residents, the park district protects 15,000 acres of green space and hosts nearly six million visits each year. Informed by the stories of its past and its vision for the future, the park district enters its second century with a renewed approach to protecting natural resources and connecting people to nature. Speaker Appointed in September 2015, King is the seventh director of Summit Metro Parks, which was established in 1921 and is the first woman to lead the park in its history. In this role she serves as the chief executive and chief financial officer, leading and directing the organization to ensure achievement of its mission, financial viability, short and long-term growth, and stability. For full event details and speaker bio visit: https://bit.ly/39MXqv0

Bob Spitz was born, lived, went to high school and college on the same street, in Reading, Pennsylvania. Once he strayed off the block, however, his life veered into diverse and fascinating realms. A longtime musician, he retired from the music business in 1980 to pursue his love of writing. His biography, Dearie: The Remarkable Life of Julia Child, was published on the centenary of her birth, in August 2012. For full speaker bio and event details please visit: https://bit.ly/3Kq5AWI

Speaker: Amy Freitag comes to New York Restoration Project (NYRP) with a professional background that includes serving in the Bloomberg Administration as Deputy Commissioner for Capital Projects in the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation for six years and Fairmount Park in Philadelphia. While at the NYC Parks Department, she administered a $3 billion capital program – during what is considered the largest period of investment in the City's parks and open spaces since the 1930s.   For full speaker bio and event details please visit: https://bit.ly/3ONPKZh

Presentation: Voting rights are being tested all around the country at the local, state and federal levels. Join a conversation to discuss the need for voting rights expansion and the fight against voter suppression from an expert at the League of Women Voters. This is part of the Point/Counterpoint two-part series offered by the Akron Roundtable in which speakers help create a public dialogue around important topics. These luncheons will occur in subsequent months, with a different viewpoint being explored on the same topic each month. The goal of these luncheons is to help people learn from each other, foster civil discourse, and build relationships. Speaker: Jessica Jones Capparell is the Director of Government Affairs at the League of Women Voters of the United States. With a decade of experience at the organization, she has become an expert on League policy positions. She works to implement strategic campaigns in coordination with staff, League members, and organizational partners around the country. For more details on the event and the speaker visit: https://bit.ly/35jCWIg

Presentation: Election integrity is a fundamental requirement of a functioning democratic republic. In the freest nation in the world, our system of government and our very liberty depend on free, fair, and honest elections. Americans must be able to trust the process, or the democratic system itself breaks down. The U.S. has a long and unfortunate history of election fraud and we must take steps to deter and prevent it. As the U.S. Supreme Court said in 2008, such fraud can make the difference in close elections – and we have close elections all the time in this country, particularly in local elections. We must ensure that every eligible American is able to vote and that their vote is not negated by fraud, errors, mistakes, or other problems. Election reform should be a bipartisan concern that ensures both access and security. Both of those goals can be achieved through commonsense, reasonable measures. Speaker: Hans A. von Spakovsky is a Senior Legal Fellow and Manager of the Election Law Reform Initiative in the Edwin Meese III Center for Legal & Judicial Studies at The Heritage Foundation. He is an authority on a wide range of issues, including civil rights, elections, the First Amendment, immigration, the rule of law and government reform. Hans von Spakovsky will sign his new book Our Broken Elections: How the Left Changed the Way You Vote immediately following the luncheon. Books may be purchased in advance from The Learned Owl Book Shop at: For full details on this event and the speaker visit: https://bit.ly/3tigwiI

Presentation: The secret is out that we're all living on borrowed time, so the question is whether we're merely tolerating our work and going through the motions in our lives, or whether we're doing the work that fulfills us and Living with a big “L”… Living with the pursuit of maximum aliveness, living lives we'd be proud to look back on, without the faintest whiff of regret on our eventual deathbeds. Shining the light on our scarcity of time helps us get clear about what matters. You might have more than 2,000 starts to your week left until your life calls it quits or only 20 to go until your gloriously imminent retirement. What kind of a leadership legacy do you want to leave? Life's far too short to settle in a job or life situation that depletes you. How do you want your thousands or hundreds or dozens of Mondays to feel? How can you make that happen, without another week down the drain? In this interactive online session rooted in the science of positive psychology, we'll talk about how we can be more mindful about living the lives we'd love to live, and actually start living those lives… today, without a Monday to spare. Speaker: Jodi is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) and an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC). She has a Master's of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, which she infuses into all of her work: helping clients do amazing work while living lives worth living. Learn more about Jodi and her work at .   For full event and speaker information visit: https://bit.ly/3KoCFmr

In earlier periods of our history, when we were settling the land and industrializing, mass immigration had real costs, but they were outweighed by the benefits. It's the opposite today – mass immigration today still has upsides, but the downsides are piling up. It's not that today's immigrants themselves are the problem – they're not all that different from those of the past. But we are different. We have a post-industrial, knowledge-based economy, a large welfare state, globalized travel and communications, and a post-patriotic leadership class. Some of these features of modern society are good, others bad. But they add up to a general problem that can be summed up in one sentence: Modern America has outgrown mass immigration. Mark Krikorian, a nationally recognized expert on immigration issues, has served as Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) since 1995. The Center, an independent, non-partisan research organization in Washington, D.C., examines and critiques the impact of immigration on the United States. Animated by a pro-immigrant, low-immigration vision which seeks fewer immigrants but a warmer welcome for those admitted, the Center was established in 1985 to respond to the need for reliable, fact-based research in the immigration area. For additional resources, event details and full speaker bio visit: Point/Counterpoint is a two-part series offered by the Akron Roundtable in which speakers help create a public dialogue around important topics. These luncheons will occur in subsequent months, with a different viewpoint being explored on the same topic each month. The goal of these luncheons is to help people learn from each other, foster civil discourse, and build relationships.

Presentation: A first for Greater Akron's Future: Beginning in 2019—for the first time in its history—our communities engaged in a cultural planning process with goals to strengthen our region, advance our cultural diversity, increase our opportunities to create culture, and provide vibrant experiences for all of us. We know that diverse opportunities to experience arts, culture, and the environment are the keys to creating a vibrant and prosperous community. Join Akron Roundtable as ArtsNow shares an update on the work inspired by the cultural plan and its role in attracting and retaining talent, engaging our kids and helping them to succeed, driving economic investment, and ensuring residents of all ages and backgrounds are helping to co-create our future. ArtsNow works to leverage the arts and culture in Summit County to support and strengthen the region's economic and social vibrancy. Learn more at ArtsNow.org Speaker: Nicole serves as the Executive Director of ArtsNow, an organization that helps build and strengthen a thriving Summit County arts and culture scene to add economic vitality and social vibrancy to our region. In this role, she collaborates with local leaders and organizations to advocate for the arts and culture sector, connects local talent to resources, and leads a team that promotes the diverse catalog of arts and culture offerings across multiple platforms to Summit County residents. For full event details and speaker bio visit: https://bit.ly/3n26WyQ

Program: Attorney General Dave Yost will discuss the importance of partnerships both in law enforcement and survivor advocacy groups, as well as his overall efforts to end human trafficking in Ohio. Ohio ranks fourth in the nation of reported human trafficking cases and ranks among the top 10 states for number of calls made to the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Since taking office in January 2019, Attorney General Dave Yost has made the fight against human trafficking a top priority. He created the Human Trafficking Initiative with the goal of ending labor and sex trafficking in Ohio. The initiative works to build awareness, empower Ohioans to take action in their communities, strengthen victim services throughout the state and ensure that traffickers are brought to justice. Speaker: Dave Yost became Ohio's 51st Attorney General on January 14, 2019, bringing to the office his extensive experience rooting out fraud, holding the corrupt accountable and reforming government. For full event details and speaker bio visit: https://bit.ly/3yN8kYv

The United States is unique in its capacity to integrate immigrants and refugees, both socially and economically, into communities and industries across the country. The U.S. has a reputation for having a welcoming national ethic and for having admitted significant numbers of immigrants of all kinds and creeds, even though its immigration history includes troubling periods of restriction. The U.S. population is aging, dramatically. Fertility rates are falling, life expectancy is rising, baby boomers are reaching retirement age, and net immigration levels are not high enough to keep pace. The fact is the U.S. has Room to Grow by increasing legal immigration in a way that maximizes both economic growth and human potential. Ali Noorani is the Executive Director of the National Immigration Forum, a non-partisan advocacy organization working with faith, law enforcement and business leaders to promote the value of immigrants and immigration. Growing up in California as the son of Pakistani immigrants, Ali quickly learned how to forge alliances among people of wide-ranging backgrounds, a skill that has served him extraordinarily well as one of the nation's most innovative coalition builders. For full event details and speaker bio visit: Point/Counterpoint is a two-part series offered by the Akron Roundtable in which speakers help create a public dialogue around important topics. These luncheons will occur in subsequent months, with a different viewpoint being explored on the same topic each month. The goal of these luncheons is to help people learn from each other, foster civil discourse, and build relationships.

Presentation: Dominic and Francine will give insight into Akron's arts & culture sector through their lens of using inclusion, connection, and excellence to build new organizations, projects, and performances across Akron and beyond. In addition to prepared talks, Dominic and Francine will perform a new collaboration for Akron Roundtable called "Dear, Funders". Speakers: Dominic Moore-Dunson is an award-winning dancer & choreographer, a creative entrepreneur, and a local arts leader in Akron, OH. In 2016, Dominic has established a large-scale community-based dance theatre project called Artie & The Black Card (formerly The Black Card Project) which premiered in Sept 2018. Francine Parr is a 25-year old Akron native. She started performing at the age of 4. Her first notable role was the Hershey Kiss in The Nutcracker with the Ballet Theatre of Ohio in 2001. Francine attended Miller South and graduated from Firestone High School‘s VPA program on the theatre track. While attending university, studying musical theatre Parr found that there was a huge missing piece of what she fell in love with theatre for, which was community. Find the full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/3n5UNsw

Presentation: Gina will share more about the digital divide, why digital inclusion is so important, and the work that she and her colleagues do towards digital equity. Speaker: Gina uses technology and data for social good. She has spent almost twenty years working in under-resourced communities and with under-served populations to close education and housing gaps. She is the Deputy Director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), and she shares a deep commitment to bringing human-centered approaches to solving our toughest problems. Full event video and speaker bio can be found here: https://bit.ly/3BHL295

Presentation: President Miller will explore the vast changes in how urban research universities like The University of Akron are confronting past assumptions, reevaluating strategy and mission and thinking about what campus and city mean for the future. His remarks will include a preview of new approaches and new expectations at UA. Speaker: Gary L. Miller was appointed by The University of Akron Board of Trustees on Aug. 14, 2019 to serve as the 18th president of University. His tenure began Oct. 1, 2019. Dr. Miller has served as an institutional leader and consensus builder at public universities in several regions of the country. In addition to more than two decades of senior higher-education leadership, Miller also has first-hand experience as a researcher and teacher. Find the full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/3rMcga5  

Presentation: Rachel Cargle will share her journey founding a business ecosystem with roots in Akron, drawing on the tradition of other Black-owned bookstores as safe havens and literary and cultural hubs. "We're reading stories, we're understanding how we interact with each other, we're understanding how we relate to the world, we're understanding through different characters how other people live their lives.... There's a lot to be said for when a Black child can pick up a book and know that what they're reading can be in some way reflective of their life, that they can see themselves in the magic of it, in the drama of it, in the excitement of it." Speaker: Rachel Cargle is an Akron, Ohio born public academic, writer and philanthropic innovator. Her upcoming book with The Dial Press, Penguin Random House, I Don't Want Your Love and Light, examines the intersection of race, feminism, and womanhood and how we are in relationship with ourselves and one another. Find the full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/2Vxg9U1

Speaker: The Dolan family's ownership of the Cleveland Indians enters its 22nd season in 2021, while Paul Dolan begins his ninth campaign as the primary control person of the franchise after being formally approved by Major League Baseball on Jan. 10, 2013. Paul continues to serve as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Indians, roles that he accepted prior to the 2011 season. He began as Vice President, General Counsel of the Indians upon joining the organization in 2000 and later served as the club's President from 2004-10. Find the full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/2O4BvnU

Presentation: Obesity is a major public health issue around the world and a growing concern for our youth. Children with obesity experience poor health outcomes, report a lower quality of life, and face a significant amount of weight bias and stigmatization. This talk will focus on understanding obesity as a chronic disease, identifying contributors to childhood obesity, and reviewing the current model for obesity treatment. We will also highlight the importance of community-wide efforts focusing on obesity prevention. Speaker Bio: Dr. Walston works in the Healthy Active Living clinic at Akron Children's Hospital where her clinical interests include working with children, teens and their families who are struggling with the disease of obesity. She also enjoys working with adolescents who are pursuing bariatric surgery. Find the full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/3q5Z3q9

Presentation: The question of America's identity has rarely been more urgent than now, and no American place has ever been more reliable in its illumination of that identity than Ohio. In the wake of the 2020 presidential election, new questions have arisen about Ohio's status as America's bellwether and its future as a political battleground. Akron author and essayist David Giffels joins WKSU News Director Andrew Meyer for a conversation about Giffels's latest book, Barnstorming Ohio: To Understand America. Described by Publishers Weekly as a “trenchant mix of memoir, reportage, and political analysis” and selected as one of Library Journal's Best Books of 2020, Barnstorming Ohio is Giffels's account of a year traveling his native state, visiting people and places that offer valuable reflections of the national questions and concerns. David Giffels has written six books of nonfiction, most recently Barnstorming Ohio: To Understand America (Hachette Books, 2020). His awards include the Cleveland Arts Prize for literature, the Ohio Arts Council Individual Excellence Award, and a General Excellence award from National Society of Newspaper Columnists. He was selected as the Cuyahoga County Public Library Writer in Residence for 2018-2019. Find full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/3aR2WJM

David Greene is host of NPR's Morning Edition, with Steve Inskeep and Renee Montagne. For two years prior to taking on his current role in 2012, Greene was an NPR foreign correspondent based in Moscow covering the region from Ukraine and the Baltics, east to Siberia. Greene's voice became familiar to NPR listeners from his four years covering the White House and he was an integral part of NPR's coverage of the historic 2008 election. After President Obama took office, he spent three months driving across America recording the series "100 Days: On the Road in Troubled Times." For full speaker bio and event information visit: https://bit.ly/3q2t9v1

Presentation: This presentation will briefly describe how and why Lake Erie is different from the other Great Lakes and why it may be the most important lake in the world. Dr. Reutter will discuss where Lake Erie's water comes from, how and why water levels vary from year to year, why it has often produced more fish than the other lakes combined, why it became the poster child for pollution problems in the world, how we turned it into the walleye capitol of the world and made it the best example of ecosystem recovery in the world, why it supports more invasive species than any of the other Great Lakes, why harmful algal blooms have returned, and what the future will look like if we don't address the current problems very soon.   Speaker:   Jeffrey M. Reutter began working on Lake Erie at Stone Laboratory in 1971 and directed 4 programs at The Ohio State University from 1 November 1987 to 31 March 2015: F.T. Stone Laboratory, the Ohio Sea Grant College Program, the Center for Lake Erie Area Research, and the Great Lakes Aquatic Ecosystem Research Consortium, a consortium of top scientists at 12 Ohio colleges. He also served as acting director for all or parts of 1984, 85, and 86. When he retired as Director he accepted a part-time appointment as a Special Advisor for the programs.   Find the full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/3xqNIFK

Presentation: The global pandemic has taken its toll on our community in countless ways, especially in terms of our mental health. Dr. Brian Harte, President, Cleveland Clinic Akron General will moderate a conversation with Drs. Menefee and Moore, discussing the stressing effects of COVID-19 and what we can do to cope. We are excited to test the Zoom Breakout Room feature with a limited number of participants, randomly selected for a post-event 20-minute discussion session. Simply stay on the line after the presentation if you'd like to share ideas, ask questions, discuss, listen and learn in a moderated small group setting. If our test goes well, we hope to offer this discussion group option to more of our Virtual Forum attendees at future events. Post-event note from Dr. Menefee: In her comments, Dr. Menefee shared a resource for how to manage child and family screen time. She says, "Below is the link for the American Academy of Pediatrics Family Media Plan. There are two parts to the plan- I typically direct people to 'Create Your Family Media Plan.”' https://www.healthychildren.org/English/media/Pages/default.aspx Dr. Elizabeth Menefee is the Chief Medical Officer at Child Guidance and Family Solutions in Akron, Ohio. She is also appointed as an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at NEOMED working in clinical teaching roles and also teaching in the medical humanities curriculum. Dr. Jeffrey Moore serves as Vice President/Medical Director for Portage Path Behavioral Health, one of two large community mental health centers in Summit County. Find full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/2LoqjRS

This episode from Friday, October 31, 2019 is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by Akron Roundtable Board President, Karen Talbott: "He spoke not only as an informed author but also as a dedicated father who never gave up in finding help for his son and many, many others in an environment where accessing mental health services is so important but sometimes complicated." A former Washington Post reporter, Pete Earley is the author of 11 nonfiction books, including four New York Times bestsellers, and six novels. He is best known for his nonfiction book, CRAZY: A Father's Search Through America's Mental Health Madness, which was one of two finalists for the 2007 Pulitzer Prize. (The word CRAZY in the title refers to our current mental health system.) Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/2SCgcck

This episode from April 20, 2017 is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by Akron Roundtable Board Member, Mark Scheffler: "Isenberg brought a palpable energy to the podium that mirrored the dynamism of the free enterprise system he championed. Isenberg shared inspiring stories about entrepreneurs who had put their livelihood on the line to pursue compelling ideas, and became successful businesses that generated jobs. Isenberg didn't just inspire, though—he shared concrete tactics that any community can employ to become a more compelling place for entrepreneurs to start or grow a business." Dan Isenberg (@danisen) is founding executive director of the Babson Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Platform, Associate at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, and Adjunct Professor at Columbia Business School. Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: bit.ly/2Iad4Dh

Presentation: Around the country, colleges are struggling to find the right way to educate safely and effectively during the COVID-19 pandemic. From shifting between in-person and online classes to dealing with potential coronavirus outbreaks while also struggling to maintain financial stability through it all, students, faculty and staff have lots to navigate. Dr. Para Jones, President of Stark State College, will share her perspective on what the college experience looks like right now and in the coming months. Speaker: Para M. Jones, Ph.D. has been President of Stark State College since 2012. She is deeply committed to Stark State College and the community, as evidenced by her 30 years of service to students, businesses and the community. Dr. Jones's first presidency was at Spartanburg Community College in South Carolina. Find full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/3lpkJLb

This episode from September 19, 2019 is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by both, ART Board President, Karen Talbott: "His presentation was plain-spoken and direct, pointing out many significant things to consider going forward. He gave us much to think about." & ART Board Member, Vivian D. Hairston: "LOVED HIM! I recall him as a great story teller." Tom Ridge is Chairman of Ridge Global. He provides clients with solutions to cyber security, international security and risk management issues. Following the tragic events of September 11th, 2001, Tom Ridge became the first Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and, on January 24, 2003, became the first Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The creation of the country's 15th Cabinet Department marked the largest reorganization of government since the Truman administration and another call to service for the former soldier, congressman and governor of Pennsylvania. Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/2Iad4Dh

This episode from Friday, June 16, 2017 is part of our "Fan Favorites" collection. Recommended by Becky Gossett: "Brian Mosteller served as special assistant to President Barack Obama and director of Oval Office Operations from 2008 through the entirety of Obama's two administrations. His talk was informative, entertaining and engaging, with some added insight into the Obama family, along with the "inside scoop" to the daily operations inside the Oval Office." Brian Mosteller served as Special Assistant to President Obama and Director of Oval Office Operations from 2008 through the entirety of two administrations. His duties included ensuring that President Obama could execute his schedule on a daily basis and, on behalf of the President's immediate interests, overseeing the planning and implementation of White House functions, speeches, State Visits and meetings. Mr. Mosteller worked daily with senior staff, other Executive Branch offices, the White House Military Office, the Secret Service, and the Private Residence staff. Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/2SCgcck

Presentation: Within weeks America will engage in the election of our 46th president. What has been seen as the beacon of democratic light, namely American democracy, is seen now by some to be flickering and in need of oxygen. Dr. Bailey will take us through history and land us right into a 2020 that even historians of this country could not imagine. What are our options? Where should our energies be? While many feel hopeless and punched in the gut, this talk will encourage us to fight on, pray on and push on. Speaker: Dr. Julius Bailey is an award-winning author and educator. He is a philosopher, cultural critic, social theorist and diversity lecturer. Dr. Bailey has been a guest on numerous media outlets, and is often sought to speak at colleges, prisons, churches, and for community organizations across America. He has authored five academic books and one memoir including the award-winning Racial Realities and Post-Racial Dreams: The Age of Obama and Beyond and his current book, Racism, Hypocrisy and Bad Faith: A Moral Challenge to the America I Love (released in February of 2020). Find full speaker bio and event video here: https://bit.ly/3d5oB1p

Program: Facing the most challenging election of our generation, voters are stepping up to ensure all registered Ohioans can have their voice heard this fall. From best safety practices and voting options, to outreach initiatives and working with the USPS, Secretary LaRose will discuss the facts of the upcoming election and what his office and election officials have been working on to make Ohio Ready for November. Speaker: Frank LaRose took office as Ohio's 51st Secretary of State on January 14th, 2019. Prior to being elected to statewide office, he served two terms in the State Senate representing the 27th Senate District in northeast Ohio. Find full speaker bio, and the event video here: https://bit.ly/2HUIfSi

This episode from January 27, 2015 is part of our "Fan Favorites" collection. Recommended by Marnie Sanders: "I would propose the Innovations speaker's video, as both delightful and enlightening; covering everything from innovations in glass, to the "real story" of how the world wide web was developed to the Genius Bar of Apple fame and more! We always try to find new Akron events and places to celebrate our "elopement" to Akron in 1971 on Jan 29th (with a big snow storm that stopped the city the next morning!) and this one was indeed one of the most unusual for our 44th!" The bestselling author of nine books, Steven Johnson is the leading light of today's interdisciplinary, collaborative, open-minded approach to innovation. His writings have influenced everything from cutting-edge ideas in urban planning to the battle against 21st-century terrorism.. Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/35UnXCy

This episode from, March 17, 2016 is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by past Roundtable Board Member, Elizabeth Bartz: "Do you remember March 2016 when Dorothy (Dot) Ridings spoke as part of our 40th Anniversary Speaker Forum? In fact that was her third presentation to ART. Dorothy first spoke on the Akron Roundtable stage on September 15, 1983 when she was then President of the League of Women Voters of the United States. Dorothy returned to Akron on April 17, 1997 when she was the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Council on Foundations, a national association of some 2,000 foundations and corporations that make charitable grants. And on March 16, 2016 she was—and still is—a board member for the Commission on Presidential Debates. The four debates will be held: September 29th in Cleveland, Ohio; October 7th the Vice President debate in Salt Lake City, October 15th in Miami, and October 22nd in Nashville. Akron's State and Federal Communications will be in attendance as a sponsor to the debate programs." From 1988 until joining the Council in March 1996, Ridings served as publisher and president of Knight-Ridder's Bradenton Herald in Bradenton, Florida. Dorothy's career outside of journalism includes service on a number of boards, international speaking tours, and education. Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/3koiesB

Presentation Overview: In this conversation, National Geographic Executive Editor for History and Culture Debra Adams Simmons, invites you to reflect on how and why the stories of our past, and the social dialogue unfolding minute-by-minute, can both inform and empower us as people. From her newsroom beginnings to her present role in one of the world's largest media enterprises, Debra will provide an inside look at how history is being rewritten and culture is being shaped in this watershed time in our nation's history. Speaker Bio: Debra Adams Simmons is the Executive Editor for Culture at National Geographic Magazine where she manages coverage of the lived experiences of people around the globe. A 30-year news veteran, Debra has extensive reporting, editing and senior news management experience. A career journalist, Debra serves as a consultant to the Knight Foundation, Ford Foundation and Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan where she has advised the foundations on how to shape a Detroit-based, multi-million-dollar journalism engagement fund. Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/32wvLa4

This episode from, January 18, 2018 is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by Akron Roundtable board member, Beth Boggins: "In my mind, Dr. Warner provided one of the more exceptional addresses in Akron Roundtable's recent history. With infectious charm and wit, Dr. Warner makes a compelling case for the necessity of realistic and responsive workforce preparation for our country to be competitive in the approaching economy.   Dr. Warner's talk focuses on the intrinsic value of every human being. It is couched in a vivid description of recent dramatic changes in the workforce and the workplace. She gives an emotional portrayal of what the future holds for business, industry and American society. A not-to-be-missed podcast episode as we head into a school year like no other." Carolyn Warner is co-founder and Chairman of Corporate// Education Consulting, Inc. (C//ECI), a national-scope consulting firm based in Phoenix, Arizona. She has been active for more than three decades on state and national levels as a respected and effective educational advocate and public policy leader.  An acclaimed speaker and best-selling author, Warner has led U.S. delegations to Japan, Australia, Germany, Romania, Russia, Scotland, Spain and China, and conducted on-site studies of European Union vocational and technical training programs.  Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: bit.ly/2YNwSBC

Program: Prior to 2020, the Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), challenged by a reduction of passenger traffic of more than 50% since 2012, looks at plans to rebound. With social distancing measures in place, a gate expansion project, right-sizes the facility for the future. A Strategic Plan looks to the future as customer-centric with a preservation of assets, revenue generation, & social responsibility at the core of CAK's mission. Ren, elaborates on all of this & more in his June 25th, 2020, Akron Roundtable. Speaker: Renato “Ren” Camacho is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Akron-Canton Airport following a unanimous appointment by the Airport Authority's Board of Trustees in 2018.   Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/3ichZjr

This episode from, April 18, 2013, is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by Akron Roundtable board member, Joan Lauck: "I think one of my favorite aspects of Akron Roundtable is that you often attend a luncheon with a pre-determined mindset on what you will hear; only to be taken in a completely different direction by the speaker. One such talk that stands out in my mind was given by David Adkins, Executive Director, Council of State Governments. David was asked to come to Akron to talk about the mission of the Council of State Governments and to talk about the issues States currently face. Instead, David provided an inspiring and motivational talk following the tragic Boston Marathon bombing that occurred on April 15, 2013, only three days prior to his Akron Roundtable speech. He implored the audience to become an agent of change in their community and to ask themselves “what are you willing to run to?” I hope this talk inspires you to think about your role as our country faces crises." David Adkins, a former Kansas state senator, leads The Council of State Governments as its executive director and CEO. Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: bit.ly/2YNwSBC

This episode from September 20, 2018 is part of our "Fan Favorites" collection. Recommended by Patty Dill: "My most memorable Roundtable was having BGen Stephen Cheney, he spoke about Homeland Security and how the Climate change has changed the world, masses of people migrating to other countries due to drought, famine, etc….the cost of our military to be involved and the rising waters that will effect our world. That made a huge impression on me of how large this problem is. I miss attending Akron Roundtable, it is informative, wonderful speakers, nice lunch,  being able to meet new people, see old friends and network with others in Akron make this so worthwhile. I will be waiting and looking forward to future Akron Roundtable luncheons." In over 30 years as a Marine, his career included a wide variety of command and staff positions with the operating forces and the supporting establishment. General Cheney has appeared on CNN, Fox, BBC, NPR, and Sky news, and many other stations worldwide discussing the national security implications of climate change and energy security. Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/2Zv18ld

This episode from June 3, 2015 is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by Akron Roundtable board member, David Hunter: "Former Deputy Director and Acting Director of the CIA.  A Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio native and a University of Akron graduate, Morrell delivered his remarks in a changed-up Akron Roundtable format:  a moderated conversation.  While he covered a broad array of topics during the interview, including his responsibility to provide the President with a daily briefing of international affairs, Morrell had the audience riveted when he described in great detail what it was like to spend the entire day of September 11th, 2001 with President George W. Bush – traveling with the Commander-In-Chief to Florida; being present as the President spent time with and addressed a kindergarten class; witnessing the President receive the news of the attack on our own soil; and participating in the events of planning and strategy that ensued thereafter.  No one who attended that luncheon will ever forget that conversation." Cuyahoga Falls native, Michael Morell's much awarded career at CIA spanned 33 years including over three years as Deputy Director two terms as Acting Director. He has been at the center of our nation's fight against terrorism and authored the book “The Great War of Our Time:  An Insider's Account of the CIA vs al Qa`ida.”  Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/2YNwSBC

This episode from August 16, 2018 is part of our "Fan Favorites" collection. Recommended by Diane Lazzerini: "I don't get to attend many Roundtables but I organized a group of my lady friends and we came to hear Jim Donovan.  His talk was entertaining, humorous, and moving.  We all loved it!." Jim Donovan joined Channel 3 in March of 1985 as weekend sports anchor and in June of 1999, he was named the voice of the Cleveland Browns. Find full speaker bio, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/2BeWRss

This episode from August 17, 2017 is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by Akron Roundtable board member, Vivian Hairston: "Chief Williams, did a really great job of helping me understand policing from the police perspective.  I also gained a better understanding of the consent decree." As we collectively explore the topic of policing, this is an opportunity to reflect back on the 2017 presentation's message aimed at bridging the gap between police and community through addressing past mistakes as well as taking a holistic approach to change in our education, health care, economic and criminal justice systems, alike. Chief Calvin D. Williams is the 40th Chief of the Cleveland Division of Police, appointed as Chief on February 10, 2014. Find full speaker bio, presentation pdf, and the event details here: https://bit.ly/2BeWRss

This episode from October 17, 2019 is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by Akron Roundtable board member, David Hunter: "This 2019 Akron Roundtable speaker will long be remembered as a presenter who came to Akron fully prepared and offered remarks and presented statistics that evidenced the national progress that has been made toward positively influencing attitudes toward and recognition of members of the LGBTQ communities throughout our country.  I'll always remember the capacity crowd, comprised of individuals from a broad spectrum of our community – undoubtedly including many who had never before attended an Akron Roundtable luncheon.  But for me the most important moment was Winterof's own story of embracing her sexual orientation, summoning up the courage to come out, and the relief she gained by doing so and seeing the acceptance by those who knew her.  It was clearly an emotional moment for Human Rights Campaign leader when she told the audience, “What a relief it was to know I could now live an authentic life.”  It was a breakthrough presentation not only for Akron Roundtable, but for our entire community." JoDee Winterhof is a veteran political strategist and respected  advocate with over 20 years of experience in navigating the complex intersection between politics, campaigns, messaging and public policy, currently serves as Senior Vice President for Policy and Political Affairs for the Human Rights. Find full speaker bio, presentation pdf, and the event details here: bit.ly/3goCKrR

This episode from September, 15th 2016 is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by Akron Roundtable board member, Barbara Feld, "People are still saying this was one of the best Roundtable luncheons they ever attended. Theaster, along with members of his band The Black Monks of Mississippi (now known as The Black Monks), began the presentation. While Theaster stood at the podium quietly speaking about his early morning walk in the park and Nina Simone, the musicians played. It was riveting and compelling. It set the stage for Theaster's talk, entitled “The Importance of an Artist as an Entrepreneur.” An artist, himself, and definitely an entrepreneur, Theaster spoke with passion, knowledge and commitment. It's one of the few times (but not the only time), a speaker received the coveted standing ovation. Theaster Gates was in Akron in partnership with the Akron Art Museum, thanks to a Knight Challenge Grant." Theaster Gates, entrepreneur, artist, professor, leader and so, much more. Gates is a rare visionary. See this PBS spotlight on some of his work: http://www.pbs.org/video/2365729790/ Find full speaker bio and the event details here: https://bit.ly/3goCKrR  

This episode from July 21, 2016, is part of our "Most Memorable" collection. Recommended by Akron Roundtable board member, David Minc, who said: "Mental health is a large public concern. Attitudes have changed considerably over the decades and a very significant percentage of families have personal experience with this heartache, yet embarrassment and discrimination persist. Before Kennedy spoke, I thought his presentation would be largely if not completely overshadowed by his "celebrity buzz." And that celebrity excitement was in evidence. However, during the presentation and in the months and years afterward, the memorable effect is how he wove personal experience into a larger public concern and specific policy recommendations." The Honorable Patrick J. Kennedy is a former member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the nation's leading political voice on mental illness, addiction, and other brain diseases. Find full speaker bio and the event details here: https://bit.ly/2zhL6Rj