COLUMBUS OH - Leadership Ohio, the state's premier nonpartisan civic leadership organization, concluded its eight-month program year by honoring 34 distinguished graduates at a celebration held at the Creekside Event Center in Gahanna, Ohio, where Mayor Laurie Jadwin provided welcoming remarks. Interim CEO Shon Christy congratulated the cohort, stating, "We congratulate the Class of 2025 which represents the diverse talent and unwavering commitment to service that makes Ohio exceptional."

The ceremony highlighted exceptional statewide leadership and included a special recognition for retiring Board Member Phil Hinson for his nine years of incredible service to the Leadership Ohio Board of Trustees.

Among the award recipients, Kemp Boyd, Executive Director of Love Akron and a Leadership Ohio alumnus, received the 2025 Most Inspirational Award for his work empowering others. In a Leadership Ohio first, the entire Class of 2025 was collectively presented with the Leader Among Leaders award, reflecting their strong, shared commitment. The organization's rarest honor, The Kleismit Award for Extraordinary Leadership, was given to Board Treasurer Alison Gobel for her extraordinary service. The event's featured guest, State Representative Allison Russo, emphasized the critical need for civil discourse and listening to advance the state.

Leadership Ohio is now accepting nominations and applications for its 2026 cohort; for more information, visit www.leadershipohio.org.