The Lunch and Learn event hosted by the Akron Canton Airport, sponsored by the Women’s Business Enterprise Council Ohio River Valley (WBEC ORV), and presented by Black Pages Ohio and The Summit Magazine was both informative and engaging. Lynnise Smith, the CEO of WBEC ORV, delivered a comprehensive presentation, offering valuable insights into the organization’s services and benefits. The event, which attracted a nearly full house, provided a relaxed atmosphere conducive to learning and networking. Smith’s interactive approach, inviting questions throughout the presentation, enhanced the ove ..read more

In the realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Robert DeJournett stands as a beacon of experience and expertise, shaping a more inclusive future for organizations and communities. With over two decades dedicated to DEI working in the corporate arena, Robert’s multifaceted approach in consulting, DEI training, and planning encompasses individual and group coaching, impactful connections, and the orchestration of meaningful events. DEI Consulting & Planning: A Legacy of Expertise Boasting more than 25 years of hands-on experience, Robert has become a seasoned professional in the DE ..read more

Those are the goals of the Ohio Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), headquartered at the Greater Cleveland Partnership in Cleveland. Founded in 1969 by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the MBDA’s mission is to foster the growth and global competitiveness of minority-owned U.S. businesses. The Ohio MBDA was created in 2021, when GCP was awarded a five-year, $1.9 million federal grant to create the center, which also has locations in central and southern Ohio. The Ohio MBDA works to connect Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) across the state that have revenues greater than $500,000 ..read more

ACDC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization under the direction of Executive Director, Dr. David Nelson, that advocates and promotes Families and Healthy Communities through Economic Development, Affordable Housing, and Wellness Services for the residents and communities of Akron. PACDC is based in West Akron, OH. The corporation is actively involved in economic development for urban areas and in the provision of affordable housing and wellness services which include; mental health, physical health, emotional health, and financial health. Mission and Vision The vision of the PACDC is to improve ..read more

In the whirlwind of today’s business, where diversity and inclusion are not merely trends but essential ingredients for innovation and growth, there stands a beacon of empowerment and support: the Women’s Business Enterprise Council Ohio River Valley (WBEC ORV). For 15 years, WBEC ORV has been leading the charge in championing diversity and empowering women entrepreneurs. Let’s explore the essence of this transformative organization, its mission, and how it aids women-owned businesses in overcoming challenges. Mission and Focus At the heart of WBEC ORV’s mission lies Supplier Diversity—a commi ..read more

In this issue of The Summit Magazine, our Cover Story highlights Lynnise Smith – CEO of WBEC ORV on how the Women’s Business Enterprise Council is Empowering Women in Business. Discover how the Women’s Business Enterprise Council Ohio River Valley (WBEC ORV) empowers women in business through championing diversity, fostering economic inclusion, and providing tailored support and resources to overcome challenges. . . Page 16 Also, hear from Robert DeJournett –  in “Unlocking Potential: The DEI Vision of Robert DeJournett” – With over two decades dedicated to DEI working in the corpora ..read more

Al Jones Marketing (AJM) stands tall as a premier professional marketing service established by entrepreneur Al Jones in 2013, hailing from Akron, Ohio. This dynamic enterprise is dedicated to sculpting strategic marketing approaches that bolster profits, amplify revenue streams, and cultivate robust brand recognition for its clientele. The genesis of AJM traces back to Al Jones’s multifaceted entrepreneurial journey. Amid managing diverse businesses, Al’s pivot towards marketing sparked from a pivotal encounter during his tenure operating a mobile car wash service. A client, impressed by the ..read more

In this issue of The Summit Magazine, our Cover Story highlights Malcolm Costa – CEO of Community Action Akron Summit. Follow his inspiring leadership as he transforms a struggling organization into a beacon of hope, tackling poverty with unwavering dedication. Also, see how Community Action Akron Summit continues to make a profound difference in the lives of Akron and Summit County residents. . Page 16 Also, hear from Marvin Montgomery – “The Sales Doctor” in his article – Are You Practicing On Your Customers? In this article we learn why Preparation & Practice are the keys to unlock ..read more

It is not for the sake of athletic achievement, financial riches, or bravado. You are often struck by his quiet, thoughtful demeanor and evident passion as he tirelessly works and inspires those around him to strive to help Akron and Summit County residents on their path to self-sufficiency and a brighter future. He is Malcolm J. Costa, President and CEO of Community Action Akron Summit, a vitally important non-profit social agency in downtown Akron’s heart. Costa, who admits he never envisioned himself working at any organization for more than a few years, enters his 47th year at the helm of ..read more

In other words, are the sales techniques that your staff utilizes on a daily basis following a proven method of success, or are they simply implementing “trial and error” techniques while losing valuable sales opportunities in the process? Practicing on your customers is a costly sales method for any company. That’s why preparation and practice will achieve peak performance. Opportunity Rich, but Action Deficient Your customer will provide you with plenty of opportunities called buying signals during the course of the sale. This is your signal to take action and attempt a Trial Close. Unfort ..read more