Honorees to Be Recognized at Homecoming, Saturday, August 16, 2025
COLUMBUS, OHIO - August 15, 2025 - Today, Leadership Ohio proudly announces the winners of the 2025 Ohio Impact Awards, which will be presented at this year’s Homecoming event on Saturday, August 16 at The Boat House in Columbus, Ohio.
Homecoming brings together alumni from across decades for connection, celebration, and recognition of their peers' contributions to Ohio's communities and civic life.
Lisa Duty, Ph.D., Executive Director of Leadership Ohio, shared, “Leadership Ohio Impact Awards honor alumni who are actively advancing the prosperity and vitality of our communities. Their integrity and service set a powerful example for those who follow.”
2025 Honorees
Community Impact Award
Presented to alumni who have made meaningful, lasting contributions through service and community engagement.
Recipient: Lynanne Gutierrez, Class of 2023 | President & CEO of Groundwork Ohio
Visionary Leadership Award
Presented to alumni whose forward-thinking leadership has driven innovation and transformation in their field.
Recipient: Mark Greer, Class of 2022 | Executive Director, Akron Bicentennial
Professional Excellence Award
Presented to alumni who have demonstrated exceptional attainment in their profession, setting a high standard for performance.
Recipient: Patrick Espinosa, Class of 2024 | Managing Partner, Sus Abogados Latinos
Distinguished Alumni Award
Presented to alumni who exemplify outstanding character, significant philanthropic contributions, and remarkable professional success.
Recipient: Chad Jester, Class of 2001 | Vice President, Corporate Citizenship & President, Nationwide Foundation
Shon Christy, President of the Leadership Ohio Board of Trustees and a member of the Class of 2021, remarked “Celebrating these extraordinary individuals reminds us that Ohio’s strength lies in the leadership of its people. We uplift these leaders not just for what they've achieved, but for how they inspire us all.”
Nominations for the Leadership Ohio Class of 2026 open in October.