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Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
INCLUSION variety 70th
November 20, 2024
Kevin Clayton
Executive
Vice President, Chief Impact & Equity O cer, Cleveland Cavaliers
Peggy Zone Fisher
Past President and CEO, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
70th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
2024-25 DIVERSITY CENTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Tracie M. Longpre Chair
Cipriano S. Beredo, III Past Chair
Sheryl King Benford Vice Chair
Jeri Chaikin Vice Chair
Harlin Adelman
Arlene Anderson
Anthony Battle
Rev. Kenneth W. Chalker
Alyson Fieldman
Cindy Fisher
Uleto Fuentes
Allan Goldner
Lisa Grdina
Thomas W. Adler
Cynthia Bassett
Bernard A. Finkelstein
Robert D. Gries*
David J. Hooker
Robert J. King, Jr.
Stuart F. Kline
∆ ex-o
cio Member of the Board * of blessed memory
Greg Skoda, Jr. Vice Chair
Azadeh Hardiman Vice Chair
Ste any Larkins Vice Chair
DIRECTORS
Jill E. Hennessey
Shannon F. Jerse
Bonnie L. Kristan
Gregg LaBar
Leighton McCoy
Kate McManus Vlasek
Robyn Minter Smyers
Russ Mitchell
Samantha Speck, M.A. Chief Program O cer
Megan Nelius, M.A. Director of Programs, School & Youth
Shilpa Kenjale, M.A. Director of Programs, SHIFT Consulting
Gordon Sims Director of Development
Cierra Hilson Director of Special Events & Marketing
Adam Roth
LIFE DIRECTORS
William E. MacDonald, III
Hugh E. McKay
Neal Malicky, Ph.D.
John G. Nestor
Stephen M. O’Bryan
Larry Pollock
Alan D. Rosskamm
DIVERSITY CENTER STAFF
Mark O. Swaim-Fox President & CEO
Amanda Cooper, Ph.D., CDP Vice President/Chief Operating O cer
PROGRAM DEPARTMENT
Tony Weber Vice Chair
Orlando Alvarez, Jr. Vice Chair
Mark O. Swaim-Fox ∆ President & CEO
David W. Rowan
Fareed Siddiq
Greg Skoda, Jr.
Dalithia Smith
Robert E. Soroka
Natoya Walker Minor, Ph.D.
Simon Wilkins
Deandra Williams-Lewis
PROGRAM DEPARTMENT STAFF
Melodie Gonzales Engagement Manager, School & Youth
Jamil N. Hairston Marketing and Communications Specialist
Michael J. Salkind
James A. Scho
Terry C. Stewart
William B. Summers, Jr.
Robert M. Wol
Margaret W. Wong
Jessica A. Daigler, M.A. Director, LeadDIVERSITY
Gloria Campos JEDI Specialist, SHIFT Consulting
Je Modzelewski Director of Engagement, SHIFT Consulting
Lorraine Z. Pennick Nash Executive Assistant to the President & CEO / Senior O ce Manager
e Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
It is my pleasure to welcome you to The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio’s 70th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I thank you for your ongoing support of the center’s mission and work.
In re ecting on the impact of the Diversity Center, I thought about how small our di erences are compared to our shared humanity. Yet hate is all too often in the limelight, highlighting the worst of humankind. We are at our best when we are showing humility, listening to others, respectfully acknowledging our di erences, and building community. We are at our best when we speak up, refusing to allow hate to win. And in the words of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we are at our best when we ght injustice anywhere because it is a threat to justice everywhere.
For nearly 100 years, The Diversity Center has been committed to building communities where all people are connected, respected, and valued. Support of our work is helping a new generation of students and future leaders embrace their di erences and become change-agents for inclusion and diversity in our region.
Tonight, we celebrate the incredible dedication of Kevin Clayton and Peggy Zone Fisher. Both individuals exemplify that combating hate by teaching acceptance can build stronger, more inclusive communities.
Kevin Clayton, Executive Vice President, Chief Impact and Equity O cer for Rock Entertainment Group (parent company of the Cleveland Cavaliers), has signi cantly impacted team member representation, workplace culture, fan engagement, and community relations through his dedication to make a di erence on and o the court and elevate all communities. He believes his role provides him with the opportunity to merge his personal values with the team values and extend the platform to help those in need, which strengthens our city. He is also actively engaged in many nonpro t organizations, including the Greater Cleveland Urban League, the Black Sports Professionals, United Way of Greater Cleveland, Cleveland Neighborhood Partnership, Shaker Schools Foundation, and the Cleveland City Club.
Peggy Zone Fisher spent 18 years leading The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio as President and CEO, helping to expand the reach to 11 Northeast Ohio counties and serving over 7,000 students, educators, and professionals. Peggy has been honored by numerous organizations for her community leadership and notable engagement in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and she currently serves on the board for the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority. She has created a long-lasting legacy in Northeast Ohio and we are honored to recognize her years of dedicated service with the prestigious Humanitarian Award.
We also applaud our Honorary Humanitarian Award Celebration Co-Chairs: Jennifer and Dan Gilbert, Connie Hill-Johnson and Kevin Johnson, Ronna and Darrell McNair, and Deborah and Ronald Ratner.
The Honorary Dinner Committee members who helped to make this event so successful.
I especially want to thank our Board Co-Chairs, Jill Hennessey and Rob Soroka, for their incredible work over the past several months. Finally, we extend our sincere appreciation to our innovative new President and CEO, Mark Swaim-Fox, and to the amazing sta of The Diversity Center. This event and the ongoing positive community impact could not happen without their hard work and dedication.
Every decision, big or small, is a chance to demonstrate our values and integrity. Do we uphold our principles, or do we compromise them? The Diversity Center believes in the transformative power of education and its importance in building healthy relationships, whether it be in our schools or across our broader communities.
I cannot thank you enough for your support, which empowers the Diversity Center to combat hate through its powerful educational programs.
Tracie Longpre Board
Chair,
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
“A moment of choice is a moment of truth. It’s the testing point of our character and competence.”
– Stephen Covey
70th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
Welcome to our 70th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration. It’s an honor to be here among so many dedicated individuals committed to making a profoundly positive di erence in our community.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our Honorary Co-chairs Jennifer and Dan Gilbert, Connie Hill-Johnson and Kevin Johnson, Ronna and Darrell McNair, Deborah and Ronald Ratner, our Board Celebration Co-Chairs Jill Hennessey and Rob Soroka, and Master of Ceremonies Russ Mitchell, Channel 3 News Anchor, WKYC TV-3. Your dedication and support are invaluable to our mission, and we deeply appreciate the time and e ort you invest in making this event a success.
We are especially proud to honor our 2024 honorees, Peggy Zone Fisher and Kevin Clayton whose remarkable contributions and commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion inspire us all.
I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to all of you for your tireless e orts that contribute to our mission: to eliminate bias, bigotry, and racism. Together, we are building a more inclusive and united society. As we know, democracy thrives when diverse voices come together to nd common ground in our shared humanity.
In a time when hate is on the rise, including alarming statistics on antisemitism and other hate crimes, the importance of our work becomes even clearer. The polarized climate we face today demands that we stand together, forging connections that transcend di erences.
At The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, we have a vital role to play. Our mission is signi cant, but it is only achievable through collaboration. I am committed to fostering this spirit of teamwork as we address the big challenges ahead.
Having been here for just 80 days, I’ve come to appreciate the depth of the work we do and the remarkable legacy left by Peggy Zone Fisher. I extend my heartfelt thanks to her for her steadfast leadership. As I spend my rst 100 days learning from our incredible sta and board, especially under the guidance of our Board Chair Tracie Longpre, I see the tremendous potential we have to amplify our impact.
We’ve made great strides in reaching students and schools, and I’m excited about our professional initiatives, SHIFT Consulting and LeadDIVERSITY, which are timely and essential. However, I also believe there is room for innovation and growth. I want to see The Diversity Center at the center of collaboration, connection, and community. By forging new partnerships and expanding our outreach, we can strengthen our mission, our communities, and ultimately our world.
This work is critical, and I am honored to continue the journey paved by those before me, while also charting new pathways forward.
Thank you for your loyal support and for leading us in this essential work. I am eager to see all we can achieve together moving forward.
Mark O. Swaim-Fox President & CEO
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
e Diversity Center of northeast ohio
e Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
ABOUT THE DIVERSITY CENTER
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio was founded in 1927 as the National Conference of Christians and Jews (NCCJ). Our mission is to eliminate bias, bigotry, and racism. We are a premier organization in our region o ering comprehensive diversity, equity, and inclusion training. The Diversity Center is a member of the National Federation for Just Communities.
For the 2023-2024 scal year, our generous donors support has empowered over 1,200 students and educators to engage in 118 diversity and inclusion centered workshops, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to become leaders and change agents in their schools.
OPENING MINDS WITH SCHOOL & YOUTH PROGRAMS
The Diversity Center’s student programs promote understanding, respect, and inclusion through facilitated conversations, simulations, and hands-on activities. YouLEAD (6-12) and YouLEAD Junior (K-2 & 3-5) are our premiere on-site student leadership programs. Grounded in Social and Emotional Learning, these series of workshops promote the development of self and social awareness, relationship skills, self-management, responsible decision-making, and action.
YouLEAD and YouLEAD Junior workshops are age-appropriate, interactive, and designed to encourage students to engage with peers and create dialogue around various diversity and inclusion topics. We o er both on-site and virtual elementary, middle, and high school programs.
Student Facilitation Training teaches students how to be e ective facilitators, gaining skills such as: active listening and e ective communication, critical analysis, and con ict resolution.
Diversity Through the Arts integrates musical, visual, theatrical, and English language arts with lessons on inclusiveness and communication skills to promote creativity and leadership.
Athletic Pathways contains a four-part and a six-part series. The purpose of this athlete-speci c YouLEAD pathway is to bring a sense of awareness and inclusion to athletes who may want to see what justice, equity, and inclusion should look like through an athletic lens.
Workshops for Educators to foster healthy learning communities and create classrooms where all are connected, respected, and valued. We also provide strategic planning, 1x1 and group coaching, and consultation on developing inclusive and equitable policies and procedures.
CHANGING LIVES WITH PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT
• LeadDIVERSITY brings together a select group of professionals to engage with regional leaders and the greater community in order to raise participants’ awareness of diversity issues, build their leadership skills and provide them with a tool kit to be advocates for diversity and inclusion.
• SHIFT Consulting is the professional services division of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio. We work with your organization to SHIFT individual behaviors, interpersonal interactions, management practices, procedures, and policies to create inclusive and equitable opportunities that foster feelings of belonging for everyone. These practices
enable organizations to attract, recruit, engage, and retain top talent.
• Our partnerships with businesses and community leaders, we support the development of inclusive work environments where all feel connected, respected, and valued. The Diversity Center partners with local organizations, nonpro ts and government agencies to provide strategic and thoughtful leadership on issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion.
BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES
• Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration Since 1949, The Diversity Center has honored stellar individuals who have delivered exemplary leadership in civic, charitable, and professional organizations. Our honorees have profoundly advanced Northeast Ohio as a diverse and inclusive community.
• The Walk, Rock, Roll & Run is Northeast Ohio’s largest diversity celebration that brings people together at the Great Lakes Science Center, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and USS COD to celebrate diversity in Northeast Ohio with a day of family fun and entertainment, along with a 1 and 3-mile walk and a 5k run.
• Through Community Engagement, The Diversity Center partners with local organizations, nonpro ts and government agencies to provide strategic and thoughtful leadership on issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
70th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
CELEBRATION TESTIMONIALS
“I’ve attended several programs like this before, but I wanted to say that this is the rst time I’ve felt really safe and comfortable. This was de nitely the best I’ve attended. I learned a lot, this was great!”
“Overall, it was an amazing and awesome presentation! I wish you [could] reach more people in the corporate world [because] I can name a few places… that would bene t from a training like this.”
– SHIFT Consulting Client
– Student Participant
“[This was a] great presentation, and the facilitators were truly passionate about their work. I’m happy I participated in this session!”
– SHIFT Consulting Client
“LeadDIVERSITY is a life-changing experience. This program takes DEIB from concept, to practice, to application. I have gained knowledge and skills that will serve me in my work and my daily life for years to come. I’m forever grateful to this program and the opportunity to learn with and get to know my classmates.”
– LeadDIVERSITY Graduate
“I learned about the impact di erent life experiences have on identities, and obviously these identities shape how my classmates go about their everyday life. [This program was] very insightful.”
– Student Participant
e Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
CELEBRATION TESTIMONIALS CONTINUED
“It is important to recognize that the impact of stereotypes and biases often extends beyond one’s intentions, a ecting both the targeted and the unintended communities. Addressing these issues involves not only understanding the underlying motivations, but also actively working to mitigate the harmful e ects of such biases and promote understanding and inclusivity among diverse communities.”
– Educator Participant
“I want to express my appreciation to [The Diversity Center] for so thoughtfully crafting the LeadDIVERSITY program to explore the tenets of diversity, equity and inclusion for professionals throughout Northeast Ohio. The program’s content is robust and varied, and the format allows for extensive introspection as well as shared dialogue. There is no doubt that this program will help me forward the DE&I initiatives of my organization and boost my personal commitment to equity and Inclusion.”
– LeadDIVERSITY Graduate
“It’s important to talk about these topics because there is so, so much we don’t know, and it’s humbling to learn about things we don’t understand: empathy and understanding.”
– Student Participant
“LeadDIVERSITY provided a place for me to truly take my understanding of and advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion to the next level. Having open and honest small group discussions with professionals from various elds and backgrounds was incredibly valuable and impactful.”
– LeadDIVERSITY Graduate
“Wow!
the insights, how the comments
and the level of details o ered through this report.”
– SHIFT Consulting Client
“This was a great workshop! I’m sure it’s daunting to lead 4 hours of mandatory training for a company, but it went very quickly. I’m so impressed with how engaging and educational this workshop was. The presenters did a wonderful job facilitating discussion and keeping the topics moving… Excellent work!”
– SHIFT Consulting Client
Wow! Very well done. Love…
have been captured,
70th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
THE DIVERSITY CENTER OF NORTHEAST OHIO PROGRAM SPONSORS
ACF Millennium Fund for Children
Akron Community Foundation
Cleveland Foundation
Diebold Nixdorf Foundation Enbridge
Eaton Charitable Fund
George W. Codrington Charitable Foundation
Giant Eagle Foundation
Gries Family Foundation
Harry K. Fox & Emma R. Fox Foundation
Helen F. Stolier & Louis Stolier Foundation
Highley Fund
Nordson Corporation Foundation
Parker Hanni n Corporation
PNC
Roy A. Hunt Foundation
Ruth G. and Sam H. Sampliner Fund at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Sisler McFawn Foundation
St. Luke’s Foundation
Synthomer
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO HAVE HELPED US WITH IN-KIND GIFTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
Z 107.9 FM – Radio One
WZAK 93.1 FM – Radio One
City Ballet of Cleveland
Cleveland City Council
Cleveland City Dance
Cleveland Hts./University Hts. Libraries
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Colors + Eaton Esperanza
Flynn Group Hyland
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts – May eld Hts.
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts – Middleburg Hts. Laurice Skin Care
Maltz Museum
Michael Angelo’s Winery
Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream
Neighborhood Family Practice
Peace, Love & Little Donuts
PepsiCo
Premier Produce One
Progressive Rising Star Co ee
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
St. Ignatius High School Sanson Company
Trader Joe’s Vitamix
EVENING HOST
e Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
2024 EVENING PROGRAM
RUSS MITCHELL
Channel 3 News Anchor, WKYC TV-3
Board Director, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
WELCOME
2024 DIVERSITY STUDENT CITIZENSHIP AWARD
2024 DIVERSITY EDUCATION LEADERSHIP AWARD
2024 OUTSTANDING PEGGY ZONE FISHER
LEAD DIVERSITY ALUMNI AWARD
(VIDEO PRESENTATION)
TEACH ACCEPTANCE, BUILD COMMUNITY
PERSONAL TESTIMONY
DINNER IS SERVED
THE DIVERSITY CENTER TODAY
PRESENTATION OF HUMANITARIAN AWARDS
TRACIE M. LONGPRE
Vice President Supply Chain, Applied Industrial Technologies
Board Chair, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
INNES CHANGEMAKERS – AKRON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Makayla Bittner, Akron Gar eld CLC
Lavynder Richardson, Akron Gar eld CLC
Gage White, Akron Gar eld CLC
Stephawn Bradley-Muhammad, Akron Buchtel CLC
Jayd Foxworth, Akron Early College High School
RON KISNER
Principal, the K Factor Public Relations
JEN HUGHES
Manager, Internal Training – Education Services, Hyland
TONY WEBER
CEO, Goldfarb Weber Creative Media
Board Director, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
AZADEH HARDIMAN
Business Leader, Level 20 Progressive
Board Director, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio LeadDIVERSITY (2006-2007)
CLOSING REMARKS
MARK O. SWAIM-FOX
President & CEO, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
Robyn Minter Smyers, Partner, Thompson Hine Board Director, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
ACCEPTANCE PEGGY ZONE FISHER
Past President & CEO, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
RUSS MITCHELL
Channel 3 News Anchor, WKYC TV-3
Board Director, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
This evening’s music is provided by the Cleveland Metropolitan School District’s All-City Arts Program Jazz Ensemble and Director Chris Anderson
This evening’s interpretation services are provided by Cleveland Hearing and Speech Center
70th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
2024 STUDENT DIVERSITY CHAMPION AWARD RECIPIENTS
Innes Changemakers
Makayla Bittner - Akron Gar eld CLC
Lavynder Richardson - Akron Gar eld CLC
Gage White - Akron Gar eld CLC
Stephawn Bradley-Muhammad - Akron Buchtel CLC
Jayd Foxworth - Akron Early College High School
This Changemaker Challenge Team from Innes CLC is a collaborative group that was recognized for their e orts to make a di erence in their community. Last year, all Akron Public Schools’ 8th Graders participated in the rst Changemaker Challenge, an opportunity for student teams to research community concerns and develop solutions for positive change. They competed with fellow Innes students and, ultimately, 8th grade students across their district to address problems to make our community a better place to live, work, and play.
Together, these students re ect a diverse range of interests and aspirations, showcasing their commitment to making a di erence in their communities.
Makayla Bittner is a student at Gar eld CLC who found her experience in the Changemaker Challenge particularly rewarding, especially during the summit where all their hard work came together in a single presentation. This collaborative e ort allowed her to showcase their project and connect with her peers. Looking ahead, Makayla plans to pursue a degree in business management, which she hopes will lead her to a ful lling career that combines her leadership skills and entrepreneurial spirit.
Jayd Foxworth is a student at Akron Early College who actively participated in the Changemaker Challenge. He found great ful llment in collaborating with his peers and contributing to meaningful projects. Jayd is still exploring all career paths but has a strong desire to make a positive impact on the planet.
Stephawn Muhammad is a student at Buchtel CLC who truly valued the experience of being part of the Changemaker Challenge. He appreciated the sense of community and collaboration with his peers, which made the project memorable and engaging. Aspiring to own his own business, Stephawn is motivated to develop his entrepreneurial skills and create opportunities for himself and others. His dedication to building a successful future re ects his ambition and drive.
Lavynder Richardson is a student at Gar eld CLC, where she participated in the Changemaker Challenge project. Her favorite part of this experience was winning the checks for Prentiss Park, which highlighted her commitment to community improvement. Looking ahead, Lavynder aspires to pursue a career in dentistry, demonstrating her dedication to helping others and making a positive impact in her future profession.
Gage White is a student at Gar eld CLC who thoroughly enjoyed his participation in the Changemaker Challenge. He appreciated all aspects of the project which allowed him to engage with his peers and explore new ideas. While Gage is still in the process of determining his future career path, he is eager to discover opportunities that align with his interests and passions. His openness to exploration demonstrates a commitment to personal growth and nding his place in the world.
e Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
2024 PEGGY ZONE FISHER Lead DIVERSITY OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARD
Jen Hughes
Manager, Internal Training – Education Services, Hyland
Jen Hughes grew up in Cleveland’s eastern suburbs and attended Bowling Green State University. For most of her career, Jen has been a software trainer at companies including Harley-Davidson and Gateway Computers (remember the cow boxes?). She loves working with adult learners and seeing that moment when a topic/skill just “clicks” for them.
She has been a Technical Trainer with Hyland for the past eight years – and recently became a Manager in Hyland’s Education Services department. An active participant in several of Hyland’s Employee Resource Groups including Hyland Pride Alliance (LGBTQIA+), HylandWIN (women), Peace of Mind (mental health), Jen currently serves as President of the ACCESS (Accessibility Centered Change, Education, Service and Support) ERG.
In her current town of Mans eld, Jen has been a presenter at the last two Safe Conversation Conferences presented by Love on a Mission – an organization dedicated to helping local LGBTQ+ youth. She is excited to share just some of what she’s learned through her LeadDiversity experience.
Jen is a 10-year bone cancer survivor and shared her life with her wife Donna and their dogs Fred and Beau. A love for travel and concerts keeps the couple busy. They are looking forward to whatever the next show or adventure might be.
THE PEGGY ZONE FISHER Lead DIVERSITY OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARD
LeadDIVERSITY is a program that engages a select group of Northeast Ohio professionals with community leaders and one another to raise the participants’ awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion issues, build their leadership skills, and enhance their networks. The class of up to 35 participants is selected through a competitive application process.
The LeadDIVERSITY program approaches diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership issues from a no-fault, interactive foundation with the goal of a ecting positive change. Emphasis is placed on personal and professional growth
2006 Lorna Wisham
2008 Tina Myles
2009 Cedric Haggins
2010 Pat Ross Ferry
through group participation as well as knowledge and practical skill enrichment. Each session is designed to help participants explore the concepts of diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership and to analyze its personal, workplace, and community impact.
The Peggy Zone Fisher LeadDIVERSITY Outstanding Alumni Award Recipient is nominated annually by fellow alumni of the program. The Award recipient successfully demonstrates application of their LeadDIVERSITY learnings to be a positive change agent in both their professional and personal communities.
PAST Lead DIVERSITY ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENTS
2013 Thomasine Clark
2007 Rockette Richardson Ewell
2011 Christopher Johnson
2012 Jennifer Opphile
2014 George Sample
2015 Ingrid Angel
2016 Paula Calmer
2017 John E. Betterson, Jr., Ph.D.
2018 Courtney Fugate
2019 Elizabeth “Liz” Anderson
2020 Marcia V. Moreno
2021 Rebecca Scina
2022 Carla L. Chapman
2023 Maggie K. Myers
2023 Tonya Woods Shelton
70th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
2024 DIVERSITY EDUCATION & CITIZENSHIP LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT
Ron Kisner
Principal, the K Factor Public Relations
Cleveland-born and raised in the Glenville area, Ron Kisner is a distinguished communications professional and community advocate. A proud graduate of John Hay High School and Cleveland State University (CSU), he founded the Cleveland State Vindicator and earned a spot in Who’s Who Among American’s College Students. As a member of CSU’s Society of African American Unity (SAAAU), he played a pivitol role in establishing the Black Studies Program, initiating plans for an African American Cultural Center, and campaigning for the university’s rst Black Homecoming Queen.
Kisner served as the West Coast Bureau Chief for Jet/Ebony magazines, the agship publications of what was once the nation’s largest Black publishing company. His impressive career in public relations includes winning an environmental award from the Ohio Department of Resources for a tree-planting and anti-litter project with the Cleveland Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) garnering national attention on NBC’s Today Show. He has also freelanced for notable publications such as GQ, Cleveland Magazine, and The Land
In 2019, he coordinated a six-month exhibit on the remarkable life of Rev. Dr. E.T. Caviness, Cleveland’s longestserving pastor, displayed at the Western Reserve Historical Society. Furthermore, Kisner facilitated a permanent exhibit of Rev. Caviness, a former Cleveland City Councilman, and a Chair of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, at the Harrison County Historical Museum in his hometown of Marshall, Texas. Pastor Caviness’ social justice prominence contributed to landing Greater Abyssinia Baptist Church on the Cleveland Restoration Society’s Cleveland Civil Rights Trail.
Kisner, a retired former Interim Director of Communications and ombudsman for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD), Kisner currently works part-time for the Wellington Village School District, training sta in the compassionate communications program, Communicate with H.E.A.R.T., developed by the Cleveland Clinic. He has also introduced Kindland, a school-based initiative of Cleveland’s Values-in-Action Foundation, which focuses on belonging and anti-bullying. Wellington’s program was featured in the Ohio Education Association’s magazine’s Fall 2023 issue. In recognition of his Kindland successes in Wellington, Kisner received the organization’s Education Humanitarian Award alongside retired Wellington Superintendent Ed Weber in June.
This past school year, he led Wellington’s latest round of diversity training with The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio and is actively working to establish a Diversity Club at the high school. Driven by the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Kisner is committed to fostering a more inclusive and beloved community.
e Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
e Diversity Center of northeast ohio
Kevin Clayton
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, CHIEF IMPACT AND EQUITY OFFICER CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Kevin Clayton is the Executive Vice President, Chief Impact and Equity
O cer for Rock Entertainment Group (REG), the parent-company encompassing the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers, the NBA G League Cleveland Charge, AHL Cleveland Monsters, the NBA 2K Cavs Legion Gaming Club, Rock Entertainment Sports Network, and Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. In this role, Clayton oversees the Community Impact and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) teams, Cavaliers Legends, the Cavaliers Community Foundation, and handles government a airs for REG. By focusing the advancement of REG’s social impact and responsibility, Clayton has signi cantly impacted team member representation, workplace culture, fan engagement, and community relations.
Since joining the Cavaliers in 2019, Clayton has spearheaded groundbreaking e orts that have positioned the organization as a trailblazer in the sports industry. His strategic approach to DEI has not only transformed internal team dynamics, but has also signi cantly in uenced fan engagement and community relations. Notably, Clayton had a hand in orchestrating the implementation of DEI metrics tied to executive compensation, a rst in the NBA, demonstrating a
commitment to accountability at the highest levels of leadership.
Clayton’s impact extends beyond the con nes of REG. He had a hand in developing the strategic framework for the rst pro-sports alliance with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Browns, and Guardians. This collaboration aims to create more just, equitable, and engaged communities through improved policing, educational access, and civic participation.
Additionally, Kevin leads the NBA’s DEI Alliance, which is composed of all 30 NBA teams’ DEI leaders.
While his accomplishments describe what he has done, Clayton’s “secret sauce” is his love for service. He believes that giving back and supporting people that need a hand is his purpose and calling. While Clayton clearly is a go-getter he is fueled by the concept of being a go-giver and servant leader.
Before joining REG, he held senior positions at Bon Secours Mercy Health, the United States Tennis Association, Russell Athletic/Spalding, Proctor & Gamble, and the American Cancer Society. At three of these corporate icons, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, he implemented groundbreaking D&I education, training, and accountability systems that signi cantly enhanced company culture. His creation of the “Diversity Pro t Center” at Russell
Corporation generated substantial revenue and was recognized in the Harvard Business Review.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Clayton is actively involved in the community, serving as Chair of the Greater Cleveland Urban League and the Black Sports Professionals. He holds board positions with United Way of Greater Cleveland, Cleveland Neighborhood Partnership, Shaker Schools Foundation, and the Cleveland City Club, among others. Clayton has received numerous awards and honors, including Sports Business Journal’s DEI National In uencer, Crains Cleveland’s DEI Leader/In uencer, Bellwether Good Human Award, Savoy Magazine’s Top 50 Diversity Executives, and Uptown Professional Magazine’s Top 100 African American Executives, along with many other personal, team, and organizational recognitions.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, and Shaker Heights High graduate, Clayton is an alumnus of North Carolina Central University and Wilmington College.
Clayton will tell you that his most signi cant life’s accomplishment is being a father of four daughters and a grandfather of three amazing grandchildren.
70th Annual Humanitarian Award Celebration
e Diversity Center of northeast ohio
Peggy Zone Fisher
PAST PRESIDENT AND CEO THE DIVERSITY CENTER OF NORTHEAST OHIO
Peggy Zone Fisher is the Past President and CEO of The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, her tenure spanning 18 years until her retirement on August 31, 2024. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority Board of Directors.
Peggy led the Diversity Center’s fundraising e orts through The Diversity Center’s two signature annual events, the Humanitarian Award Celebration Dinner and the Walk, Rock, Roll & Run, and other major gifts and grants – all of which combined to raise more than $16 million for programs and services since 2006.
Under her leadership, The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio:
• Became established as a new independent nonpro t organization based in Northeast Ohio, instead of being a local chapter of the National Conference of Community and Justice (NCCJ).
• Expanded its reach to 11 Northeast Ohio counties, serving over 7,000 students, educators, and professionals.
• Established SHIFT Consulting, the professional services division
of The Diversity Center, which focuses on providing diversity, equity, and inclusion training to businesses, schools and nonpro t organizations.
• Expanded the acclaimed LeadDIVERSITY young professional program nationally by licensing the program to nonpro t organizations in other cities.
• Remained active and impactful during the COVID-19 crisis, which was an exceedingly challenging time for communitybased nonpro t and volunteer organizations.
Among Peggy’s many honors are 2024 Community Leader of the Year Award, Cleveland Magazine; Cleveland 500, Cleveland Magazine; Notable Executive in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Crain’s Cleveland Business; Richard W. Pogue Award for Excellence in Community Leadership and Engagement, Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Foundation; YWCA Woman of Achievement Award; Appeal for Human Relations Distinguished Leadership Award, American Jewish Committee; and Progressive Woman Award, Smart Business Magazine. She was a delegate to the rst-ever White House Conference on AIDS and was honored by the AIDS Task Force of Greater
Cleveland for her more than a decade of leadership on AIDS issues. She was the rst woman board member of Lutheran Medical Center.
For many years, Peggy was President and owner of one of Greater Cleveland’s largest womenowned businesses, Zone Travel, Inc. She was named a Top 20 Northeast Ohio Women Business Owner by the Women Business Owners Association, and was one of just eleven White House Small Business Commissioners appointed by President Bill Clinton. She chaired the Ohio Governor’s Advisory Council for Travel and Tourism, led Governor Richard Celeste’s China Trade Mission, and Chaired Mayor Mike White’s rst Inauguration.
Peggy is a graduate of The Ohio State University. A Cleveland native, she is the daughter of Michael and Mary Zone (both deceased), who served on Cleveland’s City Council for a total of 21 years, and brother of Matthew Zone, who served for 20 years on Cleveland City Council. She is married to Lee Fisher, Dean of the Cleveland State University College of Law, and former Ohio Attorney General and Lt. Governor. They have two children, Jessica and Jason (wife Katelyn), and two grandchildren, Violet and Dylan.
Ronna J. McNair and Darrell McNair Executive Director, The Center for Entrepreneurs Cuyahoga Community CollegeCorporate College CEO of the MVP Group of Companies
CELEBRATION BOARD CO-CHAIRS
Jill Hennessey Market Leader – Commercial Banking Northern Ohio The PNC Financial Services Group
Lisa Grdina
Burt and Beatrice Gri n
Azadeh Hardiman
Greg Harris
Paul and Michelle Harris
Jill Hennessey
Deborah and Ronald Ratner
Community Leader
Director, The Max Collaborative
Robert E. Soroka Sr. VP., Retail Executive Fifth Third Bank
70TH ANNUAL HONORARY HOST COMMITTEE
Edwin Hubbard Jr.
Shannon and Ed Jerse
Sharon Sobol Jordon
Lara Kalafatis
Ariane Kirkpatrick
Ste any Larkins
India Pierce Lee
Dennis and Ginny Lehman
Tracie Longpre
Phyllis Toth-Magold
Alan and Sarah Melamed
Ida and Glenn Mercer
Beth E. Mooney
Amy and Marc Morgenstern
Dan Moulthrop
Pat Pastore
Bob and Judy Rawson
Claire Rosacco
Enid and David Rosenberg
David Rowan
Glen Shumate
Naomi Sigg
Scott Simon
Bob Smith
Robyn Minter Smyers and Bert Smyers
Robert Soroka
Jenny Spencer
Sally and Terry Stewart
Kate Vlasek
Daniel and Molly Walsh
Natoya Walker Minor
Tony Weber
Simon Wilkins
Sonia Winner
Lorna Wisham
Robert M. Wol and Paula Silverman
Margaret Wong
Matt and Michelle Zone
Calfee Halter & Griswold LLC
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Clinic
Connor Foundation
Corporate Wings LLC
Cuyahoga Community College
e Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
Joanie and Tom Adler
Cynthia Bassett
Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Arono LLP
Cerity Partners
Charter Communications dba Spectrum
Cleveland State University
Dix & Eaton
Enbridge
ERIEBANK
First Federal Lakewood
Fisher Phillips Frantz Ward LLP
Harlin and Laura Adelman
The Aka Team & the Mavuno Group
Tony and Lucy Battle
Tom L.E. Blum and Martin Blum Fund
Sheila and Rick Chiricosta
Beverly Coen
Echo Health Inc.
Engage! Cleveland
First National Bank
EQUALITY ADVOCATES
Fifth Third Bank
McDonald Hopkins
Medical Mutual
Oatey Company
Oswald Companies PNC
UNITY PARTNERS
Peggy Zone Fisher and Lee Fisher
Frantz Ward LLP
Lisa and Uleto Fuentes
Humana
John Carroll University
Stuart and Terri Kline
The Levin Group
Lincoln Electric
Warren Anderson
Fran and Jules Belkin
Sherly King Benford
Jeri Chaikin
The City Club of Cleveland
Cleveland Museum of Art
College Now of Greater Cleveland
Lynnette Crenshaw
Jon and Donna Croel
Diane M. Downing
Elizabeth Park Capital Management, Ltd
Tom Embrescia
Alyson and Matthew Fieldman
Benjamin Fisco II
Sarah Flannery
Erin Gabay
Larry Goldberg
Goldfarb Weber Creative Media
Lisa Grdina
Margaret W. Wong & Associates
Beth Mooney
Amy and Marc Morgenstern
The NRP Group
FRIENDS
Cindy Fisher
Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority
Azadeh and James Hardiman
Jewish Federation of Cleveland
David J. and Cindy L. LaRue
Dennis and Virginia Lehman
Mansour Gavin LPA
Ida and Glenn Mercer
PARTNERS
Burt Gri n
Mark Gri n
Audrey and Albert Ratner
Deborah and Ronald Ratner
Squire Patton Boggs
The Timken Company
Urban League of Greater Cleveland
Sandy and Tim Wuliger
Richard W. Pogue
Julia and Larry Pollock PwC
James and Susan Ratner
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Enid and David Rosenberg
RPM International Inc.
Fareed Siddiq
Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP
Paul Harris
Lynn and David Heiman
Jill and Jim Hennessey
Thomas Hopkins
Suellen Kadis
Joe Kanfer
India Pierce-Lee
Leslie Murray Law LLC
Tracie Longpre
William E. MacDonald III
Sarah and Alan Melamed
Charles Modlin, MD, MBA
Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District
Alan K. Nevel
Olympic Steel, Inc.
Dan Polster and Deborah Coleman
Sisters of Charity Health System
Robyn Minter Smyers and Bert Smyers
West eld
Robert Wol and Paula Silverman
Momentive Technologies
Port of Cleveland
Robert P. Madison International
Mark D. Ross
The Sherwin-Williams Company
Taft, Stetinus & Hollister
United Way of Greater Cleveland
Simon Wilkins
Julie and Peter Raskind
Judy and Robert Rawson
RDM Foundation
Alan and Barbara Rosskamm
Adam and Susan Roth
David W. Rowan
Ward 15 Council Member Jenny Spencer, Cleveland City Council
St. Ignatius High School
Terry and Sally Stewart
Roger Synenberg
Team NEO
Andre Thornton
Mayor David Weiss
Marilyn Weiss and Bob Chalfant
WKYC Studios
Dr. Donald Zone
As of November 7, 2024
LEADERSHIP CHAMPIONS
INCLUSION CHAMPION
DIVERSITY CHAMPION
COMMUNITY BUILDERS
EQUALITY ADVOCATES
ThankYou, Peggy
Congratulations Peggy Zone Fisher
We are very proud of you and the amazing impact your leadership has had on the lives of so many people in Northeast Ohio and beyond!
We love you!
The Fisher and Zone Families
Lee Fisher
Jason Zone Fisher, Katelyn Fisher, Violet Fisher, and Dylan Fisher
Congratulations to our friend Peggy Zone Fisher on 18 years of success and achievements at The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio! Your guidance and leadership have been invaluable to the organization and the community.
Terri and Stuart Kline
Peggy, It’s been our privilege to work with you over so many years and, more importantly to be your friend. We send all our love your way.
Joanie and Tom Adler
Thank you for inspiring the next generation of Diversity Champions, Peggy!
From the LeadDIVERSITY Class of 2024 (your LAST class)
