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Special Feature: My Brother’s Keepers Programs in OHIO Foreword Writer

Charles S. Modlin, MD Kidney Transplant Surgeon The MetroHealth System

Who’s Who In Black Cleveland is a registered trademark of Real Times Media

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www.whoswhoinblack.com Dr. Carter D. Womack Chief Operating Officer

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On the Banner Page

Evelyn Burnett, Kevin Clayton, Kierra Cotton, Alan Nevel, Jacqueline Muhammed, Sam Sylk, Rhoni Thompson, Blaine Griffin, LaToya Smith, Tyson Mitchell, Shenice Johnson Thomas, Bakari Ballard, Lily “DJ Lily Jade” Goodwin, Bilal Akram, Shauntina Lilly, Richard Starr, Shontel Brown, Rev. Brian Cash, Erika Anthony, Peter Whitt

On the Cover

Mayor Justin M. Bibb City of Cleveland

Dr. Airica Steed, CEO MetroHealth

Shanelle Smith Whigham

Senior Vice President & Director Key Bank

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Wayne Dailey / Juan Sifuentes

Cover Photo Credit Alvin Smith

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Real Times Media was established out of a passion to provide the African-American community with information that enlightens, empowers and inspires. With a legacy stretching back almost 100 years, we possess an unparalleled depth of knowledge and assets that are multi generational, relevant, and trustworthy.

A true multi media company focused on becoming the leading source of news, entertainment, and lifestyle information from the African-American perspective, Real Times Media provides comprehensive print content that helps our communities to thrive and grow while chronicling the events and individuals who are making history today.

We accomplished this through our various enterprises and interest which include: • The most extensive African-American newspaper collective in the nation, including the Chicago Defender, the Michigan Chronicle, The New Pittsburgh Courier and the Atlanta Daily World • Who’s Who Publishing Company, the creator of the largest portfolio of publications showcasing African-American professionals • A full-service marketing and communications company providing strategy, production and management for ad campaigns, TV/Radio production, interactive, public relations, and event, marketing and promotions • RTM Digital Studios, which is focused on the creation, distribution and licensing of original content for book publishing and film/documentary projects using its extensive archive of historical photographs and other artifacts of the African-American experience throughout the past century.

• A series of live events across the country that pay honor to unsung community, business, and religious leaders.

Real Times Media is poised to realize a future as rich as the legacy which precedes it. With an unrivaled connection to traditionally hard-to-reach, affluent minority markets, we offer our clients a full range of targeted solutions for all of their multicultural marketing needs. Let us do the same for you. For more information, visit us online at www.realtimesmedia.com or call (313) 963-8100.

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CEO Message “We will all, at some point, encounter hurdles to gaining access and entry, moving up and conquering selfdoubt; but on the other side is the capacity to own opportunity and tell our own story.” – Stacey Abrams

We are back! It is with great pleasure and excitement that I present Who’s Who in Black, back to the Cleveland community! This 15th edition of the Who’s Who In Black Cleveland publication, is a testament to the impressive impact and excellence achieved by the African American community in this vibrant city.

The individuals featured in this publication are more than just talented- they are trailblazers, history-makers, and living legacies of perseverance and triumph. As we explore the inspiring stories and achievements chronicled in the following pages, I am certain that you too will be moved by the passion, determination, and sheer brilliance that they embody. These men and women represent the very best of Cleveland and the African American community. They continue to inspire and uplift the next generation of independent thinkers and accomplished individuals who will carry on their legacies.

The pages of this edition are filled with stories of influential Clevelanders who have left an indelible mark on the city’s history. For example, Mayor Justin Bibb who was sworn in as the 58th Mayor of Cleveland. Mayor Bibb, who has graciously welcomed us back to the city, has developed a cabinet that “looks like the city of Cleveland.” He has appointed African Americans, Latino Americans, Italian Americans, Irish Americans, and representatives of many other ethnic groups in Cleveland, as well as LGBTQ residents.

Stories like this are beyond mere praise; they are celebrations! As someone who values the power of recognition and the importance of sharing the incredible work of others, I am honored that Who’s Who In Black Cleveland has a role in paying tribute to all of these legendary leaders. To these leaders, understand that you are not merely in a “book”. This is only the beginning. You have now become an elite part of an immense nation-wide community of Black excellence that represents the best of who we are as a people. We welcome you to the WWIB family!

Finally, I want to appreciate the advertisers and sponsors of this edition who have helped us create this piece of history. So, to each one of you, I extend a special heartfelt thank you. It is through your contributions that together, we can celebrate these remarkable individuals and document for posterity their inspiring journeys.

Hiram E. Jackson

Publisher & CEO of Real Times Media

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Who’s Who In Black Cleveland® is an opportunity for us to afford a measure of recognition to the men and women who have made their mark in their specific occupations, professions, or in service to others in the community.

A sincere effort was made to include those whose positions or accomplishments in their chosen fields are significant and whose contributions to community affairs, whether citywide or on the neighborhood level, have improved the quality of life for all of us.

The names of those brief biographies included in this edition were compiled from customary sources of information. Lists of a wide variety were consulted and every effort was made to reach all whose stature or civic activities merited their inclusion.

In today’s mobile society, no such publication could ever claim to be complete; some who should be included could not be reached or chose not to respond, and for that we offer our apologies. Constraints of time, space and awareness are thus responsible for other omissions, and not a lack of good intentions on the part of the publisher. Our goal was to document the accomplishments of many people from various occupational disciplines.

An invitation to participate in the publication was extended at the discretion of the publisher.

Biographies were invited to contribute personal and professional data, with only the information freely submitted to be included. The editors have made a sincere effort to present an accurate distillation of the data, and to catch errors whenever possible. However, the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for the accuracy of the information submitted.

There was no charge for inclusion in this publication and inclusion was not guaranteed; an annual update is planned. Comments and other concerns should be addressed to:

Who’s Who Publishing Co. 1452 Randolph, Suite 400 Detroit, MI 48226 Phone: (313) 963-8100 www.whoswhopublishing.com

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A lot has occurred since we last published a Who’s Who in Black Cleveland in 2019. Just as we were beginning to start the process in 2020, our country shut down in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Because Who’s Who in Black events drew large crowds, pre-pandemic, our leadership found it to be very difficult to reproduce that energy virtually and decided to wait it out instead of “pivoting” in regards to this brand.

With that, this 15th edition of Who’s Who in Black Cleveland is three years in the making. And, what a difference three years make.

Rhonda Crowder Who’s Who In Cleveland Associate Publisher

In March of 2020, as the news reported the reality we all faced, the need to adjust to a “new normal,” I remember saying to myself, this is going to usher in a new era. And so, here we are - having experienced more than we all could have imagined.

Since then, in Cleveland, we declared racism a public health crisis, giving some organizations the license to continue the work of eliminating social determinants of health and for others to begin.

At the same time, both the landscape around the city and leadership within has changed.

Construction projects can be seen on the northeast side of town particularly by the Cleveland Public Library.

In Nov. 2021, we elected Mayor Justin Bibb, the youngest to ever hold this position. Ward 6 Councilman Blaine Griffin, once Director of Community Relations, is now president of Cleveland City Council. President Joe Biden appointed our very own Marcia Fudge to serve as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, making way for Shontel Brown to transition from Cuyahoga County Councilperson and chair of the Cuyahoga County Democratic Party to represent the 11th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives.

New business and philanthropic leaders have emerged as well.

MetroHealth hired its first Black, female CEO Dr. Airica Steed. Cuyahoga Community College, my beloved alma mater, installed new leadership with Dr. Michael Baston, as the institution celebrates 60 years of excellence in education and Cleveland Metropolitan School District has a new CEO after 12 years with Dr. Warren G. Morgan.

I am excited for what our city is becoming and this unique opportunity to continue the work of documenting achievements of African Americans. And, with the attempts to eliminate Diversity Equity and Inclusion efforts, “critical race theory” or let’s call it what is - OUR history as a whole - this book, this brand is more relevant today than when it first started decades ago.

As African Americans have and continue to make significant contributions to this city, this state and society, it is more important today for us to record our success in media outlets we own, so we can share it with the next generation.

More often than not, this may be the only opportunity to recognize so of us.

Many of those in leadership as I grew up, like George Forbes, Rev. ET Caviness, are well into their 90s. I believe we need to glean as much wisdom as we can from them, and I wish to see us begin to bridge general gaps with this publication at the center of this work.

Thank you to everyone featured in this 15th edition as well as to our wonderful advertisers and sponsors for enabling us to bring voice and agency to our community.

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ACE Mentor Program of Cleveland

Construction Assistance Association

Cleveland Foundation

Destination Cleveland

Christ Kingdom

Cleveland Public Library

Cleveland State University WhosWhoInBlack.com

Cuyahoga Community College JACK

Sherwin Williams

Welcome to The VIBE Spotlight, an initiative driven by Delta Dental’s unwavering commitment to fostering thriving communities for everyone. Within these pages, we proudly highlight the remarkable achievements and extraordinary journeys of distinguished African Americans in Ohio and Michigan who embody the spirit of health and wellness, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and community activism.

Delta Dental joins Who’s Who In Black in our belief in the power of recognizing those who have made a significant impact on their communities. The VIBE Spotlight serves as a platform to showcase the exemplary individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a difference. We aim to inspire and empower others to follow in their footsteps by sharing their stories and accomplishments.

Through these vibrant pages, we pay homage to a select few individuals who have left an indelible mark on our society. Yet, we must acknowledge that these remarkable individuals represent only a fraction of the countless unsung heroes who contribute to the progress of our communities. Their tireless efforts and unwavering dedication deserve our utmost respect and admiration.

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WhosWhoInBlack.com • 29

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one open door can open doors across a community.

Our most important work happens outside the four walls of our bank. KeyBank gets involved, supporting people who make a difference and working with community-focused organizations through investments, philanthropy, and volunteering. We believe that together we can keep our communities full of hope, compassion, and opportunity, one open door at a time.

KeyBank thanks Who’s Who in Black Cleveland 2023, for making a difference.

©2023 KeyCorp. KeyBank Member FDIC. 221108-1326908-1260198063

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Arlene Anderson

Kimberly Green, MSN, RN, C-EFM

Director, Supplier Diversity and Strategic Partnerships

Vice President, Women and Children Services

Arlene Anderson, a Certified Diversity Professional and Executive Certified Master Contract Administrator has been dedicated to the community. This nationally ranked safety-net, public health care system is perfectly aligned with her long-standing commitment to serve her community. Prior to working for MetroHealth, Anderson established Minority Business Solutions, Inc. (MBS). With a goal to address the inequities within construction and supply chains, she increased the participation of minority and women owned businesses in these specialties. MBS allowed her to consistently advocate and build diversity and inclusion initiatives. Her visceral need to aid with monitoring and compliance services, business development and a fair chance for the marginalized to have sustainable opportunities propelled MBS to establish best practices and industry standards. She is the author of an MIT Case Study and a Cornell University Case Study. Her previous clients included healthcare, education and government institutions. .Currently, she serves as a Board member for The Diversity Center Northeast Ohio, Heights-Hillcrest Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Chair, Supplier Diversity Committee of a National Group Purchasing Organization (GPO). As a champion of diversity, equity and inclusion, Arlene tirelessly uncovers new Supplier Diversity opportunities.

Kimberly Green is responsible for the business, professional, and clinical activities in women and children’s services throughout the system. Green is deeply committed to leading the vision and strategy to promote meaningful initiatives, deliver quality care, and yield positive outcomes.

She’s been a registered nurse for over 30 years and served in a variety of leadership roles. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The Ohio State University and later earned a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in leadership and management. During her nursing tenure, Green worked primarily in hospital and academic settings.

She’s known for being dedicated, caring, supportive, and a fierce advocate for providing culturally competent care.

She also serves as the Program Administrator for Nurse Family Partnership. She is a member of numerous nursing organizations and serves several boards, including the Executive Board for First Year Cleveland. She’s the recipient of leadership awards. Green participates in mission trips and serves as conference lay leader in her church. She resides in Cleveland with her husband Anthony. They have two adult daughters, Jordan, and Sydney and new grandson, Aiden.

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Olusegun Ishmael, MD, MBA

Natalie Joseph, MD

Chief Operating Officer and President Hospital Division

Director, Division of Surgical Oncology and Center for Breast Health

Dr. Ishmael leads day-to-day operations of MetroHealth’s Hospital Division, which includes Main Campus and The Glick Center, Community Hospitals, Behavioral Health Hospital, Rehabilitation and Correctional Medicine. His accountability includes oversight of medical and clinical operations, nursing services, emergency services, perioperative services, hospital and support services, public safety, facility services and space management. Prior to joining MetroHealth, he served as Chief Clinical Operations Officer at Sinai Chicago. Previous leadership roles include Division Chief; Medical Director and VP Medical Affairs for health plans; ER and Hospitalist Director. He has extensive experience in primary care and emergency medicine. Having grown up in Chicago and trained in Nigeria – his birthplace – Ishmael witnessed firsthand the inequities impacting health. As such, he’s committed much of his career to serving underserved populations and ensuring everyone has access to high-quality care through his work on the operational side. Ishmael received his medical degree from the University of Ibadan in Nigeria and an MBA from Purdue University. He completed his residency in family medicine at Methodist Hospitals in Gary, Indiana, and a fellowship at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

Dr. Natalie Joseph is the Director of the Division of Surgical Oncology, Director of the Center for Breast Health, and Associate Professor of Surgery at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. She is also Interim Director of the Cancer Center at MetroHealth. Joseph held several leadership roles at MetroHealth, currently as President-Elect of the Medical Staff. Nationally, she’s an associate examiner for the American Board of Surgery Complex General Surgical Oncology Boards and serves in leadership positions on national surgical committees. The London, England native is a graduate from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Biological Basis of Behavior. She received her Medical Degree from Temple University School of Medicine.

Joseph specializes in the surgical care of cancer patients with a focused interest in the management of breast cancer.

She’s engaged in research on disparities in breast and gastrointestinal cancers and is also committed to improving the health of the community, particularly with regards to cancer care and has overseen many of MetroHealth’s community cancer screening efforts. She’s most proud to be mother of two sons and wife of 23 years to Dr. Christopher Smith.

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Meltrice D. Sharp, CPA, MBA is a native of Cleveland Ohio and a managing partner at Creating Leading Enterprises (CLE) Consulting Firm, an accounting and consulting firm offering accounting, tax, payroll and business consulting services to small and middle market companies, nonprofit organizations, religious organizations, and individuals.

With more than twenty years as a CPA, Meltrice has extensive knowledge and experience in accounting, tax, management, finance, and business consulting.

She started her accounting career at Ernst & Young as an auditor. She remained there for four years before joining Forest City Enterprises, where she served in a variety of accounting and finance positions for the next thirteen years. Inspired by a deep desire to use all she had learned over the previous two decades to chart a path of her own, she decided in 2017 to begin her journey as an entrepreneur.

Meltrice received her BBA with a concentration in accounting from Kent State University and her MBA from Baldwin-Wallace University. She is an adjunct instructor at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C), where she teaches a variety of accounting courses.

Meltrice is the Founding Member of Women Creating Wealth & Impact, an organization that addresses the education, knowledge, and access gaps with women and finance. She is the Treasurer of the Deaconess Foundation and the National Association of Minority Contractors, Northern Ohio (NAMC).

Meltrice serves on the Audit Committee Board for Cuyahoga County. She is a trustee for the YWCA, University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children Foundation, and the Women of Color Foundation.

Meltrice is also a member of the Business Advisory Committee for Tri-C and the Marketing Advisory Committee for JumpStart.

Meltrice is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Alpha Omega Chapter of Cleveland, Ohio. She is the author of Aubrie’s Adventure to Cashland, a children’s book that teaches children the importance of giving back and how making wise money decisions can positively impact their lives and community.

Meltrice devotes a significant amount of her personal time civically, giving back to her community. She attends Faith Fellowship Church and is a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

Meltice D. Sharp

Her favorite pastime is hanging out with her family and telling corny jokes. (Her children remind her that her jokes are not funny while they are laughing.) Meltrice’s guilty pleasure is vegging out on the sofa and watching reality TV shows.

Managing Partner CLE Consulting Firm

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The Honorable Annette Blackwell Mayor City of Maple Heights

On January 6, 2016, Mayor Blackwell was sworn in as the City of Maple Heights’ 16th Mayor, the first female and first African-American in the City’s 100-year history. She is also the City’s Safety Director. Mayor Annette Blackwell is a very successful business professional, and her previous employers include KeyBank, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Deloitte and Ryan International Tax Services. Her highest honors include: Cleveland Magazine 2021 Community Leaders of the Year Award, Cleveland Magazine 2020 Most Interesting People, Ursuline College’s Sister Diana Stano Leadership Award and Villa Angela – St. Joseph High School Hall of Fame. Her favorite quote is: “I didn’t come from pretty, I made it pretty.”

Patrice Blakemore

Senior Vice President of Equity and Inclusion Greater Cleveland Partnership Patrice Blakemore is the Senior Vice President of Equity and Inclusion of the Greater Cleveland Partnership (GCP). Blakemore leads three principal equity and inclusion strategies. These priorities include scaling minority business enterprises, supporting efforts that promote minority development, advancement and retention in middle to high-wage positions, and advocating and advancing digital equity. Before joining GCP, she served as the Executive Director for the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C). She joined Tri-C in 2013 as a business advisor, where she has assisted more than 500 business owners during her tenure. She graduated from Spelman College with a law degree and University of Dayton School of Law. After graduating from law school, She worked for the Montgomery County Prosecutor’s office before moving to Cleveland. In 2009, Blakemore pivoted, using her experience as an attorney to create a consulting practice where she managed diversity programs for organizations.

Michael Bowen

Attorney/Partner Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP Michael Bowen serves as a strategic advisor and counselor to his clients, who range from private corporations to public. He provides legal counsel on matters related to corporate governance, regulatory compliance, mergers and acquisitions, tax and economic development incentives, employment, MBE and WBE certification. Bowen also has comprehensive experience in real estate development, community development projects, construction, property acquisitions and financing. Bowen listens to his clients and provides thoughtful action plans to help achieve his clients’ goals by tapping into his unique background, formed by working as a business lawyer and government relations professional. He often leverages Calfee’s deep bench of subject matter experts and his connections within the Ohio government to find the right solutions. Bowen’s knowledge of the political process, which he honed as the campaign manager for the former Cleveland mayor, among other roles, allows him to advise clients at the federal, state and local levels of government.

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We salute the people who help show the way forward.

We salute the people who help show the waywhoforward.

PNC is proud to celebrate the people help keep our community moving forward, and proud to play a role in helping to make a difference in the places we call home.

PNC is proud to celebrate the people who help keep our community moving forward, and proud to play a role in helping to make a difference in the places we call home.

©2023 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. PNC Bank, National Association. Member FDIC