Five questions. One Alum. Get to know your CLC Community.
Alysha Ellis Montgomery (OBC 2019)
CEO & Co-Founder of Futureland
- What’s something happening in Greater Cleveland right now that has your attention, and why?
Builders have my attention. So many people are creating incredible things here, and I’m meeting them every week. From Yappy Hour and Cleveland Tech Week to Coffee Connects, there’s a thread of connectivity growing. Cleveland was built on innovation, and today’s builders are choosing to lead. People are watching Cleveland!
- What’s one connection you’ve made through CLC that has stayed with you or opened an unexpected door?
CLC has connected me with leaders across sectors I may not have encountered through my everyday work. Those relationships have expanded how I see Cleveland and reminded me that meaningful collaboration often begins with simply getting into the same room.
- If you could get CLC alumni in a room around ONE Cleveland issue or opportunity, what would it be?
Talent retention and attraction. How do we share our stories and reshape the narrative around Cleveland? What does it mean to build a career, raise a family, enjoy the food and entertainment scene and create a life here? CLC alumni have the numbers and influence to help more people buy in.
- What’s one Cleveland place, experience, person, or conversation you think every CLC alum should have access to at least once?
Futureland, of course! It’s a growing community for all of us—across industries, interests and neighborhoods. You can volunteer, engage civically, build relationships, share resources or lead a conversation. There are so many ways to participate and help shape what Cleveland builds next.
- Finish this sentence: “If you call me, I can probably help you with __________.”
Connecting the dots between people, ideas and opportunities across Cleveland’s entrepreneurial and creative ecosystem.