SitemapThe Raymond John Wean Foundation has named fifteen people who will take part in eight months of training to reinforce and improve their leadership skills in organizations focused on community development and improvement in the Mahoning Valley and surrounding areas.
Fifteen mid-career professionals from non-profit organizations across Warren and Youngstown were chosen from a competitive pool of nearly 40 applicants to be part of the inaugural class of the Wean Foundation's Nonprofit Leadership Cohort, partnering with Gradient, a consulting firm specializing in human equity development.
Gradient is an environmental and risk sciences consulting firm combining scientific principles and a systematic study of data, along with an independent perspective,to help clients understand issues they face.
Starting in 2025, the program will offer participants coaching, peer learning, and practical applications within their organizations. The curriculum focuses on building key leadership skills, including fostering inclusive leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and board governance.
The members of the first Nonprofit Leadership Cohort are:
Alex Hertzer, Executive Director, Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition
Angelica Diaz, Executive Director, Organización Cívica y Cultural Hispana Americana Inc.
Audrey Novotny, CEO, Trumbull Mobile Meals
Bryant L. Youngblood, Jr., Founder, Evolve Innovation Center
Christopher Colón, Executive Director, Thrive Mahoning Valley / Northeast Ohio Regional Director, Ohio Environmental Council & OEC Action Fund
Deon Stubbs, Founder and CEO, Hyer Merit Association
Elisa Nicole Hosey, Re-Entry Support Specialist, Home for Good Re-Entry Center
Jalaya Provitt, High School Program Coordinator, Inspiring Minds
Kevin Stringer, Community Engagement Coordinator, Trumbull Neighborhood Partnership
Lea Dotson, Co-founder, Warren Forward
Markisha Parker, Executive Director, Parker Farms
Melissa Phillips, Executive Director, Sunshine-Warren Homes
Michaela Write, Mission Officer, YWCA Mahoning Valley
Norman Carter, Founder and Executive Director, The Carter House Inc.
Violeta Aguirre, Community Engagement Manager, Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corp.
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