2024 Columbus Smart 50 honorees share drive to make a difference

Effectively building and leading organizations is not a simple task. I am pleased to recognize business leaders who have undeniably achieved that goal. Thank you, Smart Business, for allowing us to be part of the Smart 50 awards.

On behalf of Hylant, I want to personally recognize and congratulate all the honorees.

This year’s honorees have demonstrated commitment and passion for making a noticeable impact on the communities, industries and organizations that they work and live in. The level of community giving is phenomenal, despite some of the adversity within your own business. The results of your hard work are evident across Columbus and Central Ohio.

Becoming acquainted with the honorees as more than businesspeople, as individuals who cherish this community, continues to be my favorite part of Smart 50. Each leader is unique, but all share the same drive to make a difference. I remain humbled and inspired by the work of our honorees as our region continues to set an example.

When founding Hylant almost 90 years ago, Edward Hylant promised to treat our clients and employees like family — with honesty, respect and trust. Today we are among the largest privately held, full-service brokerage firms in the United States and a 15-consecutive-year winner of Best Places to work in Insurance. We offer business insurance, personal insurance and employee benefits services to protect the people and things you care about most.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Smart 50 honorees

(Honorees listed in alphabetical order by last name)

Tyler Armbruster has consistently demonstrated a visionary approach in leading Commercial Land Management Systems with a focus on innovation, efficiency and strategic growth. He has implemented advanced data-driven decision-making processes that have transformed the company’s business operations, making them more responsive to market changes and customer needs. CLMS has also developed top-notch systems utilizing LMN (Landscape Management Network), which has revolutionized the landscape industry. These innovations have increased the company’s market competitiveness and also set industry standards for excellence. Beginning in 2007 as landscape maintenance only, CLMS now offers new construction installation, irrigation, hardscaping, fencing and snow removal. As a result, annual revenue has doubled year over year for the past four years, far outpacing industry averages.

 

Coffman Media is a full digital signage solutions provider, delivering innovative solutions that help businesses inform, inspire, connect, and captivate their audiences. Co-Founder and COO Jason Ault is a problem solver who helps customers take their concept to design, installation and maintenance and also carries those customers forward each year in renewing their Software as a Service licenses, with the best possible white-glove support. Ault is part of an industry-wide push to make digital signage more sustainable. Going digital helps reduce paper waste and ink consumption, and, year over year, the energy consumption required to run the signage continues to improve. The company ensures the solutions it recommends to its customers are a positive addition to the client’s infrastructure and not a negative toward the net carbon footprint goals.

 

CBUS differentiates itself from standard title company practices with a “one touch closing experience.” While it is common in the industry to compartmentalize standard workflow into order entry, processing, escrow document preparation, funding and post-closing using multiple people, CBUS owner Mike Barker believes such compartmentalization often leads to client confusion and frustration. CBUS trains its staff members to handle all facets of each file as one person. Clients therefore have no need to deal with multiple staff members handling their transaction. The title industry relies on customer service for client retention and growth, as pricing and capabilities tend to be similar throughout various companies. CBUS’ approach separates it from the rest. The company has also raised more than $100,000 for charity through its bi-annual Last Standing Comic event.

 

Bold Penguin got started in Columbus in 2016 in the commercial insurance sector. Founder Ilya Bodner, who is originally from Uzbekistan, says the company built software to make the quoting and buying of business insurance or commercial insurance easier. When the company was bought by American Family Insurance Mutual Holding Co. in January 2021, it was allowed to keep its tight-knit team of people who are passionate about building technology and commercial insurance for the independent insurance agents together while also staying loyal to Columbus and the Midwest. It was important to Bodner that Bold Penguin remain neutral and maintain its focus on building technology in the space. In 2023, Fast Company ranked Bold Penguin 15th internationally for its efforts to encourage innovation and create an empowering workplace culture.

 

Marburn Academy is a not-for-profit, independent day school devoted to serving the educational needs of bright students with learning differences such as dyslexia, executive function difficulties and attention issues. Eldrich Carr, Head of School, is at the forefront of running a smart organization specifically tailored to the needs of these children. In a landscape where new research is constantly being published about learning differences, Eldrich adapts with agility, integrating the latest findings into Marburn’s educational approach. Eldrich assists in the demonstration of remarkable adaptability, consistently aligning strategies with the evolving needs of students and families in this dynamic sector of education. He has a strong passion for helping students in this sector and aiding them in the success of their education and life beyond school.

 

At Apricity Robotics, running a smart organization involves integrating advanced technology and innovative management practices to revolutionize health care diagnostics. The company’s primary focus is on developing a tele-directed, AI-assisted sonography robot designed to alleviate physical strain on sonographers, enhance exam efficiency, and expand access to critical diagnostic tests for underserved populations. CEO Aaron Crookes directs a smart approach in which innovation is generated through a collaborative process involving cross-functional teams and direct feedback from health care professionals. These strategies enable the company to quickly develop and commercialize solutions that address significant health care challenges. The sonography robot has attracted substantial interest from investors and funding bodies, and the company’s supportive and innovative work environment enhances job satisfaction and fosters a culture of continuous professional growth.

 

Michele Cuthbert founded Baker Creative in 2003 after serving other agencies and not being satisfied with the customer care being provided. In 2023, Baker Creative celebrated its 20th anniversary as an award-winning business known for artistic achievement, strategic savvy and data-driven results. Cuthbert’s curated approach of combining the artistry of creative storytelling, modern public relations and deep-dive analytics enables customers to connect the dots between their desires, needs, emotions and a brand’s value. This proprietary approach delivers a new level of actionable insights, sales conversions, solutions and strong return on investment for clients. For her own team, Cuthbert has created a unique work environment that resides upon a National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat and fosters an enviable work/life balance to preserve and enhance the creative process.

 

In 2004, Abby David and Erin Nealy each owned private therapy practices. Abby was a speech therapist, and Erin a music therapist. Both were passionate about helping children with autism and recognized the need for a smarter model that reduced commute times and the need for families to visit multiple providers. Twenty years later, their company Bridgeway serves 240 children and young adults in the Academy and another 150 exclusively for therapy services. No other organization in Central Ohio offers school day education, a range of therapies, psychological services, transition-to-adulthood and vocational services, behavioral and crisis services and summer programming, all in one place. The team at Bridgeway provides a clear strategy, based in evidence-based methodology, to families to ensure each person served can reach their highest potential.

 

Good Sport Golf Club Founder and CEO Samuel Davis has led the organization’s tremendous growth and positioned it as a prominent player in the golf industry. Good Sport Golf Club’s innovative Software as a Service solutions enhance efficiency and alleviate common frustrations faced by more than 30 million amateur golfers nationwide. The company’s state-of-the-art technology seamlessly integrates with ease of use and offers valuable insights to drive effective solutions for clients. By simplifying the coordination of activities and logistics, Good Sport adds value to the lives of league managers across the country who strive to provide a seamless golfing experience. Driven by his passion for philanthropy and a deep desire to serve others, Davis has garnered both national and international recognition for his collaboration with major nonprofit organizations.

 

The mission of GO-HR is to provide outsourced human resources to help small businesses (with under 100 employees) compete on the same playing field when it comes to attracting and retaining employees. This is done through helping clients find operational efficiencies in technologies and practices and employment compliance. When Sharon DeLay founded the business more than 20 years ago, she focused on building credibility through industry education and certifications and continues to emphasize that today in staffing decisions. All staff is hired with industry certifications and is further developed through education and certification based on their interests, whether through payroll training, recruiting, OSHA, or DE&I training. This focus on certification, along with education and experience, has translated into GO-HR becoming a trusted HR partner with clients throughout the U.S.

 

The Columbus Chamber of Commerce, under the leadership of president and CEO Don DePerro, has become the epicenter of the Columbus region’s business community. Within an interconnected ecosystem, businesses unite to eliminate barriers to prosperity, creating a thriving environment for enterprises across the region. Through its visionary initiatives and commitment to be the leader and driving force in building a prospering economy for the region, the chamber has significantly enhanced the business landscape. The chamber generates new ideas and develops innovative solutions through a system that engages its members to identify emerging trends and opportunities. Programs like Accelerate Columbus and Urban Business Connection support innovation and growth by providing workforce development, government advocacy efforts and business solutions that ensure businesses in the region grow and thrive.

 

The Core Real Estate Capital (CREC) approach focuses on delivering exceptional returns for investors while mitigating as many potential areas of risk as possible. The team led by president Aaron Dixon is laser focused on sourcing multi-tenant real estate investment opportunities in secondary and tertiary U.S. cities that exhibit strong job growth and population growth. Dixon has a foundational focus on people, process, and technology. These three pillars provide an elemental structure to promote growth in leadership, company culture, diversity and a dedicated focus in client satisfaction. He has developed a unique company culture through the encouragement of thought diversity and an unselfish mindset that promotes mentorship and leadership. Everyone in the organization is empowered to create needed change and feel empowered in their contributions.

 

PSI is technology staff augmentation and solution delivery firm. In a saturated field, chief client officer and co-owner Monica Dominic has set PSI apart from other firms by leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning in ways that reach existing clients and find new clients. When Dominic came to PSI in 2012, the IT division was small. Dominic helped charge up the IT division to being the top revenue-producing group of the company. Bringing in many Fortune 100 companies and an impressive portfolio of mid-sized corporations has allowed PSI to have a strong pool of diverse clients. Dominic is dedicated to leading by example.

 

 

As president and CEO at Flying Horse Farms, a medical specialty camp that provides experiences at no cost for kids with serious illnesses, Nichole Dunn has been the driving force behind key successes. Flying Horse Farms enhanced and expanded on its mission by launching a mental health camp, implementing impact partnerships that serve kids from current and expanded diagnosis groups with mission-aligned partners and ensuring equitable access exists for all kids with a renewed DE&I camper engagement strategy. Under Dunn’s leadership, Flying Horse Farms also enriched the educational and volunteer experience, strengthened its financial health. The unique Flying Horse Farms environment and innovative approach that makes it possible for kids to heal, grow and thrive is championed by Dunn’s vision, which has allowed on-site programming to expand.

 

Since its inception in 1987, Homeport has given greater security, opportunity and dignity to thousands of low-income people by building quality, affordable homes, primarily financed with private investment leveraged by federal tax credits. Leah F. Evans, president and CEO, has more than 20 years of experience in the community and economic development fields and is committed to building and sustaining strong and inclusive communities where everyone can succeed. She runs an organization aiming to get more people involved in the housing conversation. Homeport is embarking on an ambitious expansion initiative, with a focus on developing additional properties to further their mission of bridging the housing gap within communities. The company is strategically partnering with market-rate entities and pursuing all available opportunities to increase capacity.

 

IP Pathways has a strong history of technology deployment services, but, before 2019, the company had never done Chromebook enrollment and deployment. While thinking through ways to expand IP Pathways’ deployment services — and related revenue — Vice President of Service Operations Zach Evans recognized the significance of the K-12 market and the needs of this market as schools began a push for 1:1 student-to-device initiatives. Leveraging other connections, IP Pathways worked with the executive who leads all K-12 initiatives for CDW, the single most significant player in the Chromebook sales and deployment space. Evans developed a long-standing relationship with CDW to become the primary partner for the deployment of Chromebooks and other technology solutions to K-12 clients throughout the Ohio region (Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana and Pennsylvania).

 

Maryhaven is Central Ohio’s largest and oldest nonprofit addiction treatment center. It provides comprehensive services for patients at all stages of recovery, including residential and outpatient care, medically assisted treatment, cognitive behavioral and other proven therapies and individual and group counseling. Oyauma Garrison, CEO, leverages his corporate business background and experience to efficiently manage the organization and oversee 350 employees over multiple locations in different counties, including medical, operations, billing, and administrative teams. Oyauma’s corporate and nonprofit experience provides him with a unique viewpoint on the cause and empowers his engagement with people to improve patients’ and staff’s lives. His commitment and passion for addiction treatment is shown through Maryhaven’s commercial in which Oyauma shared the story of his own veteran father’s addiction.

 

Founded initially as a distributor of food and supplies to independent restaurants, Holly’s Custom Print evolved into a specialty printer of custom food packaging to independent pizza shops. In 2019, an investor group including Mike Gatt acquired the company, and Gatt has since assembled a new management team with extensive experience in operations, manufacturing automation, sales and finance. The company’s compound annual growth rate rose 36 percent from 2020 to 2023, with customers and distributors added in seven new states. Holly’s Custom Print continues to invest in automation to further improve upon its primary competitive adventive of flexible order sizes, quick turnaround of art and pricing quotes and rapid delivery of products. The company’s development of a next-generation printing machine will reduce scrap material by 50 percent.

 

Under Charles Gehring’s guidance as president and CEO, LifeCare Alliance has become a beacon of hope in Central Ohio. Gehring’s commitment to maximizing the organization’s impact is evident in his initiatives to enhance efficiency and sustainability. By diversifying revenue streams and facilitating mergers, Gehring has positioned LifeCare Alliance as a resilient and adaptive organization capable of meeting evolving challenges. Most recently, LifeCare Alliance and the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital have developed a mutually beneficial partnership that helps clients who are underinsured receive regular mammography readings, biopsies and sonograms, allowing LifeCare Alliance to provide quality care for those in need. Gehring’s revolutionary business model has been nationally recognized as a viable and logical way to increase revenue and self-sufficiency, and thereby, sustainability of services.

 

CEO Nick Glassburn of NIL Management Global builds solid relationships with individuals and companies who seek to do more in their prospective fields. It’s through trust and commitment to each client that Glassburn can connect his clients with capital and/or the right people for their project. His skills for connecting people to resources is taking shape in the world of athlete deal curation, matching young athletes with the appropriate brands to establish a sustainable flow of income, setting them up for future success. Glassburn and his team source and diligently vet the appropriate deals that highlight the athlete and honorably represent the partnering brand. Glassburn encourages those around him to consider more than the obvious in finding a funding solution, creating out-of-the-box thinkers when curating deal flow opportunities.

 

Lisa Gutierrez courageously pursued her entrepreneurial passion by co-founding Dos Hermanos Taco Truck. From its humble beginnings, Dos Hermanos has become a culinary phenomenon with raving fans, boasting four thriving brick-and-mortar establishments, three mobile food trucks, a bustling taco cart, and robust catering services — all infused with the authentic flavors of Oaxacan cuisine. Gutierrez’s rise to prominence within the culinary realm is punctuated by prestigious accolades and invitations from the highest echelons of leadership. In 2022, she earned the coveted Rising Star award from the Ohio Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance, a testament to her innovative prowess and industry impact. Her commitment to paying it forward is exemplified through her personal brand, Food Truck Millionaire, through which she mentors and advocates for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.

 

Vista Packaging and Logistics is an Ohio-based provider of turnkey customized packaging, warehousing and transportation services for manufacturers, retailers, and distributors. Since 1985, the company has helped customers in a range of industries lower their labor costs, reduce storage costs and increase operational efficiencies. Martha Cahall is the president and CEO of this female-owned enterprise. Her vice president, Todd Hampton, who celebrated 25 years at Vista in March, runs this organization by managing the day-to-day operations and ensuring all employee and customer needs are satisfied. He acknowledges the importance for companies to swiftly bring their products to market in ample quantities, and thus, Vista commits all its resources to expedite this process. This success is fueled by a robust leadership team and a diverse workforce.

 

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (FPC) is Central Ohio’s premier botanical garden and home to the iconic John F. Wolfe Palm House, which dates back to 1895. Despite significant growth since Bruce Harkey took over as president and CEO in 2007, FPC continues to improve and innovate. The firm recently unveiled its master plan to grow over the next 25 years, with a mix of new construction and renovation projects. The main thrust of the projects aims toward a gardens-forward, immersive experience for guests of all economic backgrounds. FPC fosters a deep sense of community as one of the premier tourist destinations in the city. When people visit Columbus, FPC is a top destination that contributes to sustainability by building healthier communities through gardening and providing thousands of residents with fresh produce.

 

Douglas Hill represents the fourth generation of his family with Ohio Steel Industries, which has been in operations since 1958, and became CEO in 2022. Each of the company’s divisions are growing thanks to investments made in people, equipment and facilities. Hill led an expansion to a 35,000-square-foot facility in Delaware, Ohio, that supports the continued growth of OSI’s plastic extrusion production, which has had strong demand and outlook for the future. The new facility also creates the opportunity for more than 50 additional jobs, including supervisors, rail operators, laborers, quality control operators and extrusion operators. With existing facilities in Columbus and Pataskala, Ohio, OSI’s expansion further establishes the Columbus region as the center of the country’s manufacturing industry while improving the working environment and efficiency.

 

 

The Conway Center for Family Business provides solutions to family business challenges by helping family business leaders share plans, ideas, and experiences. Drawing on her expertise and extensive engagement with nonprofit organizations — through professional roles, volunteer work, and internships — Executive Director Jill Hofmans leads a smart organization that effectively supports families in navigating the intricacies of running a family business. Hofmans’ passion for connecting with and serving others enables her to successfully work closely with members in several different ways, including facilitating the C-level peer groups, developing educational program content and delivery, and engaging with business and community leaders throughout Central Ohio. She is deeply committed to her mission, thriving in all aspects of family dynamics both within and outside of her professional endeavors.

 

Blue Way Technologies manufactures water recycling systems that save manufacturing customers millions of gallons of water per year. Trace Johnson’s appetite for invention began at age 19, when he served as an engineer intern at a Kroger Manufacturing facility in his Newark, Ohio, hometown and noticed the significant water usage for cooling, lubricating and cleaning equipment. To reduce water consumption, he developed a series of technologies that evolved into Blue Way. Johnson and his team continue to generate, license and manufacture sensors, software and even housing through companies like Sensor Array Technologies and Building Logic. Since, 2022, Johnson has implemented artificial intelligence across his companies, and he co-founded AI OWL, a private education company that equips hundreds of institutions with the knowledge to responsibly harness AI.

 

Transportation Research Center Inc. is an independent mobility testing and research service provider, fulfilling the complex engineering, research, evaluation and testing needs of the world’s leading transportation companies. Chief People Officer Allison Kender has helped cultivate an award-winning workplace culture for approximately 500 employees that span across 22 Ohio counties. Under Kender’s leadership, TRC has fostered an inclusive environment where the world’s leading experts can partner to create the newest innovations in mobility safety. She has strengthened TRC’s long-standing employee satisfaction by creating a culture task force led by a cross-functional employee team. Kender and a team of her co-workers also created a program for women to connect across TRC’s massive 4,500-acre campus to offer mentorship and education to help each other advance their careers.

 

At The Club at Corazon, Owner and CEO Jonathan Krachenfels, his wife and the team overcame the business’s past of multiple failed receiverships, bankruptcies and foreclosure to turn a profit for the first time. Krachenfels introduced a hands-on approach coupled with smart strategies to enhance the overall experience and financial stability. His wife, Oya, single-handedly rebranded “The Club” and positioned it appropriately as a world-class private club and destination wedding and event venue. Despite his initial unfamiliarity with the equestrian industry, Krachenfels’ innovative marketing techniques and event management strategies transformed Brave Horse Equestrian Center into a top-tier facility recognized by the Ohio Hunter Jumper Association within just eight months. Krachenfels also secured a contract with Horse & Country TV to broadcast the 2024 show season online.

 

 

In an industry historically rife with inefficiencies, reAlpha has made a heavy investment and focus on developing cutting-edge AI and machine learning products that are tailored for real estate. President and COO Mike Logozzo has helped to position reAlpha as a sustainable business through a combination of scalability, community development, and growth initiatives. The company’s AI tools, such as reAlphaBRAIN and Claire, enable it to manage a large portfolio of properties and provide personalized services to a growing number of users. As Claire begins to expand into other states, reAlpha will be forming strategic partnerships with local mortgage brokers, title companies, and other ancillary services. reAlpha’s focus on AI and machine learning ensures the company remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the real estate industry.

 

Traci Martinez, the managing partner of Squire Patton Boggs’ Columbus office, is a nationally recognized trial lawyer and community leader. She has a unique and broad practice that is notable because she applies a keen focus on the business objectives of her clients, whether through litigation, counseling or transactional matters. She is also passionate about Columbus and has served her community in numerous ways. As a member of the firm’s Global Board, Martinez assisted in the strategic planning of expansion into new markets such as Asia and Italy. She regularly volunteers her time to advance diversity initiatives within the firm and her community. Currently, she serves as chair of the firm’s Advancing Women’s Task Force and is the Champion Sponsor for the firm’s LatinX Hispanic Attorney Resource Group.

 

As a leader in both Enjoy Brands & AI OWL, Cas Maxwell strives to blend creativity, strategic planning and community involvement. Developing innovative solutions is at the heart of both operations. Enjoy Brands encompasses Maxwell’s Pizza, River Valley Social and Maxwell’s Woodfired Catering, with each business designed to offer exceptional food in a vibrant and welcoming environment. By updating equipment, expanding marketing efforts and renovating a building in Somerset, Ohio, Enjoy Brands has a forward-thinking approach that has allowed it to build a loyal customer base and contribute to the broader community’s development. AI OWL, an AI training company, equips educators with the necessary tools and training to integrate artificial intelligence into their teaching methods. In both businesses, Maxwell’s commitment to continuous learning is a core principle.

 

Marty McDonald was named Fahlgren Mortine’s first female president as part of a planned leadership succession. She now leads day-to-day operations of the integrated communications company, including chairing the executive and operations committees, overseeing human resources and employee engagement, leading business development and serving as executive sponsor of the firm’s diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, among many other initiatives. She also continues to lead the nation’s top-five ranked Tourism and Economic Development practice, while still maintaining the time and energy for civic, nonprofit and professional contributions. As president of Fahlgren Mortine, McDonald has repositioned the firm for continued growth, reinvented the 62-year-old firm’s service offerings, launched eight new corporate initiatives, tripled DEI metrics, achieved enviable client satisfaction metrics and reported record-high revenue.

 

As president and CEO at Forge Biologics, Timothy Miller, one of the company’s co-founders, has been leading the successful corporate strategy that resulted in the genetics medicine manufacturer’s acquisition by Ajinomoto Co., Inc. in December 2023. Forge’s acquisition was one of the top 100 global merger and acquisition deals in 2023 across all industries, took the number one spot for largest venture capital biopharma exits in the fourth quarter of 2023 and was the second largest biotechnology acquisition in Ohio for all of 2023, boosting the biotech industry during a slow year for deals, investments, and IPO activity, and helping provide validation for the gene therapy industry moving into a more momentous first quarter of 2024.

 

Noah Mitchell, the deputy chief training officer at Per Scholas, is a beacon of innovation and leadership in the realm of tech equity and workforce development. His groundbreaking work in spearheading the Tech Women of Color (TWOC) initiative exemplifies his commitment to creating inclusive pathways to success in the tech industry. Mitchell has demonstrated vision and dedication in addressing the unique challenges faced by women of color in assessing and advancing in tech careers. Through this pioneering program, he led the collaboration with the Franklin County Board of Commissioners to provide a program to empower women of color with the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive in tech roles. To date, more than 150 women have graduated from TWOC in the last one and a half years.

 

Right Way Medical was founded in 2013 by Josh Prati and is a full-service wholesaler/distributor/lessor of medical IV infusion pumps and related durable and disposable supplies to long-term care facilities, hospitals and pharmacies. The company has grown considerably since its founding through a relentless focus on delivering high-quality products and providing industry leading service for equipment maintenance, field support and asset tracking for equipment utilization optimization. These attributes have resulted in strong growth and best-in class utilization rates for Right Way’s significant fleet of infusion pumps. Because most clients have multiple units in service in as many as hundreds of in-home and institutional locations, the company’s “Right Track” program provides clients with real-time information about location, in-service status and hourly usage data, helping clients optimize equipment utilization.

 

A former Division I cheerleader, Tina Provost built on her passion for college sports with Five Star Fans, which is revolutionizing the sports landscape by harnessing Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities to foster deeper connections between athletes and their supporters. Through innovative gamification strategies, the platform not only makes fans feel included but also ensures athletes feel valued and appreciated in a transformative manner. Five Star Fans is pioneering a new era of fan engagement through the gamification of NIL, offering unique experiences and rewards that resonate with today’s digitally savvy audience. By prioritizing inclusivity and community, Five Star Fans creates a dynamic ecosystem where fans actively participate in the success of their favorite athletes, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual appreciation.

 

The Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio’s mission is to provide prescription medicines and wrap-around pharmacy services at no-cost for vulnerable people at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. Executive Director Taylor Reed fundamentally believes that free and/or charitable care should not be second-rate care. With two-thirds of patients dealing with food insecurity, Reed’s team responded with a novel approach, adding a free grocery market with fruits and vegetables where patients can get as much produce as they want and as often as they desire. After two years of this work, more than half of these patients no longer screen positive for food insecurity and are reporting more consistent in-range blood pressure readings. CPCO now serves more than 1,600 people each year.

 

Jordan Renda’s innovative approach to immersive entertainment and commitment to leveraging technology has enhanced customer experiences. Under his leadership as founder and CEO, Otherworld has become a beacon of creativity and technology, transforming an abandoned strip center into a 40,000-square-foot interactive art installation. Renda has fostered a culture of continuous learning and adaptability within the organization, encouraging his team to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional entertainment. His focus on community collaboration has given local artists a chance to showcase their work, often 2D, in a new interactive installation format. Additionally, Otherworld’s music business has provided a space for local musical artists to showcase their work alongside nationally touring acts. Renda’s ability to successfully integrate technology and art set new standards in the location-based entertainment industry.

 

Striving for excellence through a culture of social impact and inclusivity guides the foundation of Jenny Saunders’ leadership and business practices. As the president of FCBank, a division of CNB Bank, Saunders manages more than 70 employees on any given day. Since the onset of Saunders’ presidential venture, she has established ways to innovate commercial community banking, while incorporating and distributing civic leadership into the communities that FCBank serves. By recognizing the need for customer-focused and community-centered practices, FCBank, under Saunders’ guidance, is recognized as a foundational pillar in the community, offering a high-quality consumer and commercial banking experience, tailored for each customer’s needs. Under her leadership, FCBank augmented its business model, integrating three new Smart Financial Centers into its Grandview, Westerville and Bucyrus offices.

 

In 2016, Lillian Schumacher assumed the position of the six president of Tiffin University, tasked with the vital responsibility of guiding and securing its sustainability amidst the dynamic landscape of higher education. Acknowledging the immense opportunity this role presented, she meticulously considered strategies to utilize her position for lasting positive change, both within the university and on a global scale. Her decision was a commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion through the lens of culture. Schumacher pledged that Tiffin University would lead the charge in demonstrating an unwavering commitment to cultural sensitivity and nurturing an environment of belonging. This commitment birthed the concept of “CCU@TU.” Schumacher initiated the integration of cultural competencies into campus culture and Tiffin’s fundamental curriculum, driving toward a transformative paradigm shift.

 

President and CEO Samantha Shafer has a passion for work and the communities served by Integrated Services for Behavioral Health. This passion, combined with exceptional leadership, positively impacts over 21 counties within the state by promoting healthy people and stronger communities. Amid workforce shortages, often felt most strongly in the rural areas ISBH serves, Shafer’s leadership has resulted in continuous growth both in the scope and size of the care provided. Some of the many services provided by ISBH include community behavioral health, counseling, housing and housing assistance, substance use disorder treatment and peer support for adults and a vast array of youth services. Shafer has led the organization through a detailed review and reassessment of core values and has hardwired the values throughout ISBH by leading from that space.

 

Since 1935, Easterseals Central & Southeast Ohio has been creating life-changing solutions for individuals with disabilities and their families. As CEO, Pandora Shaw-Dupras has grown the non profit’s assets and ability to sustain for years to come. Driving the giving and balancing the organizations expenses are always a challenge. Shaw-Dupras has been creative in innovating new ideas, such as the Discovery Garden Playgroup for infants, toddlers and preschoolers of all abilities or the Chance to Dance classes that give kids with disabilities the opportunity to appreciate the art of movement through rhythmic ability. These programs directly help those who need care with family members’ disabilities. Employing the right people and crafting a culture of excitement allow Shaw-Dupras to leave a lasting legacy at Easterseals.

 

Asphalt Services of Ohio prioritizes innovative strategies, community engagement and sustainable practices to push the boundaries of what is possible in the paving industry. Guided by a vision of excellence and growth, the company understands the importance of embracing change and leveraging technology to drive success. A commitment to empowering the team, delivering exceptional results and making a positive impact to Central Ohio defines the leadership approach under COO Alex Sheedy. Through investments in cutting-edge equipment, the company has enhanced efficiency, accuracy and quality across its projects. Its innovative project management systems enable the company to deliver superior results while minimizing waste and maximizing resource utilization. Moreover, Asphalt Services of Ohio continuously explores new materials and methods to elevate the durability, sustainability and performance for its paving projects.

 

Throughout her tenure, Behavioral Healthcare Partners of Central Ohio, Inc. President and CEO Kathyrn St. James has implemented pioneering service approaches in the region that have led to residents receiving help for mental health and substance use issues in an easier, faster, and more accessible manner. Many of the service models she has implemented have been the first of their kind in Ohio and are now being replicated elsewhere.

St. James established two behavioral health Urgent Care facilities, which combined have served over 4,000 individuals. Grant funding has been used to purchase a customized Mobile Crisis Unit that will travel to more remote rural areas. She’s also established a Medication for Addiction Treatment program so those dealing with alcohol and opioid addiction can receive services on-site.

 

PERRY proTECH, a multi-service technology solutions provider, operates six branch locations and serves more than 10,000 customers with 80,000-plus devices across the U.S. Patrick Summers launched the Columbus and Dayton markets, growing the employee-owned company by 45 percent. Since then, the Columbus market has grown by more than 25 employees and has gained more than 2,800 customers with 7,500-plus devices. As the fastest-growing branch, Summers also established marketing and human resource departments in Columbus. In 2023, all six branches experienced record-breaking years, each exceeding 100 percent of their quotas, resulting in unparalleled growth that will deliver even greater share value to Employee Stock Ownership Plan participants.

 

As vice president of the JobsOhio Beverage System at JobsOhio, Lorraine Terry is one of the rare female leaders in two industries — spirits and logistics. She has excelled in her role because of her exemplary leadership, collaborative spirit, innovative mindset and sincere commitment to running the most efficient, respected, successful and smart organization possible. JOBS is an affiliate of JobsOhio, the state’s private economic development corporation. It is also the private half of a unique public-private partnership with the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control (DOLC). The collaboration between DOLC and JOBS has been a spectacular success, maximizing the revenue that fuels JobsOhio’s economic development efforts. Terry has been instrumental in building a smart, savvy organization that provides stable funding for the betterment of Ohio.

 

Without the benefit of modern systems and software, Miami Valley Dairy Transport relies upon strategic thinking, operational excellence, effective communication, resource optimization and resilience in overcoming challenges. Owner Riano van Raaij and his staff rely on the relationships cultivated over the last seven years to guide growth. Using traditional mapping techniques and local knowledge, Miami Valley Dairy Transport can plan optimized routes considering factors like road conditions and traffic patterns. With the help of management, driver and client communication, travel time and fuel consumption are minimized. Maximizing the use of available resources such as vehicle auction sites, social media and storage facilities relationships is essential. And emphasizing a culture of continuous improvement and learning within the diary organization leads to innovative solutions.

 

CEO and Founder Matthew Vekasy’s leadership has been instrumental in driving Metropolitan Holdings, a full-service real estate firm focused on the development, construction, and management of multifamily real estate, to unprecedented success and growth over the past year. Through his strategic vision and innovative ideas, Vekasy has positioned the company as a frontrunner in the industry by consistently challenging his team to enhance processes, products, and services. Vekasy has identified strategies to optimize the value of the multifamily properties under the company’s construction, development, and operation. Through meticulous planning, he consistently seeks ways to maximize the utilization of lotted acreage for Metropolitan Holdings’ specific product type. By emphasizing quality in design and construction, the company has been able enhance the overall appeal and functionality of its buildings.

 

Launched in 2007, HOMAGE creates shirts, hoodies, hats and more, with shout-outs to eclectic moments and personalities in sports, music and popular culture. Steven Werman, who was recently promoted to COO and has been with the company for more than 12 years, led a fundraising process that resulted in an investment from Maximum Effort, an investment group founded by actor Ryan Reynolds. HOMAGE is using this round of investment capital to expand its production capacity, grow its operating team, invest in technology and expand its licensed business with new and existing partnerships. Werman also serves on the Board of Directors for three nonprofits — JewishColumbus, Bexley Education Foundation and MiesseFest — and he is on the Ambassador Council for the Nationwide Children’s Foundation.

 

Anthony-Thomas Candy Co. is where candy-making is a cherished family tradition. This family-run business thrives in the low-stress industry of confectionery delights, setting itself apart from the impersonal machinery of large corporations with a forward-thinking and family-oriented approach.

Led by Joseph Zanetos, Candi Trifelos and Nick Trifelos, who oversee operations without letting formal titles define their roles, the company has grown alongside the Columbus community, with 13 stores located within a 25-minute radius of its headquarters. The company stays true to the traditional candy shop theme established by Anthony Zanetos and his son, Tom, in 1952.