The Way Forward Leader Lunch Breaks take place every Wednesday at noon. Visit our calendar to see upcoming sessions.
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Helping young people with challenges thrive
Habeebah Rasheed Grimes, Chief Executive Officer, Positive Education Program
Habeebah provided a brief background of Positive Education Program (PEP), their history and what they do. She shared their three priority areas for the next few years to optimize existing programs and services, innovate new programs and services, and establish a flourishing workplace. She also discussed how the pandemic has created new challenges for the people they serve and their organization.
Recorded 05/24/2023
Clean air, water, and soil: The EPA responds to crises
Mark Durno, Homeland Security Advisor, Region 5, U.S. EPA
Mark shared the EPA’s work across the region, from clean-up efforts of toxic waste on abandoned sites and homeland security responsibilities, to responding to major crises, such as the 2001 Anthrax attacks, the Flint water crisis, and the train derailment in East Palestine. He shared details about the East Palestine situation, including their initial response, current clean-up efforts, what’s on tap for the near future, the anticipated long-term impacts, and their continued community involvement and education efforts.
Recorded 05/17/2023
Politics and protests: Israel’s future in peril
Oren Baratz , SVP for External Affairs, Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Oren provided a historical background that has led to the current situation. He shared recent actions by the Israeli government that sparked the protests, what is happening now, and the resulting political divide within the country.
Please excuse the intermittent audio issues.
Recorded 05/10/2023
What are Greater Cleveland’s Largest Job Needs?
Jacob Duritsky , VP, Strategy & Research, Team NEO
Jacob talked about the current state of the economy, Northeast Ohio’s population, and wages. He discussed opportunities and challenges, and provided a high level look at the labor market in the region and the misaligned opportunities. He also shared how they are using the data to spur action through three initiatives:
- Talent Development Council
- Cleveland Talent Alliance
- Career by Design Workshops
Recorded 05/03/2023
CIA: The next chapter
Kathryn Heidemann, President & CEO, Cleveland Institute of Art (CIA)
Kathryn touched on the history of the Cleveland Institute of Art, their mission, and their strategic plan goals. She shared some of the initiatives that are already underway, what’s next, and what’s on the long-term horizon. She also reflected on some leadership lessons from her 10 months at the head of CIA.
Recorded 04/26/2023
Opening doors for Women of Color
Alexandria Johnson Boone, Chairwoman & Founder, Women of Color Foundation
Alex discussed the history of the Women of Color Foundation, how it evolved, and the programs it provides and their outcomes. She also shared a bit about their recent 20th-anniversary celebration and her vision for the future.
Recorded 04/19/2023