Jonathan Franks, Founder and President of Lucid Public Relations, is a seasoned business adviser with a background in crisis management, public affairs, and strategic communications.

In recognition of Black Philanthropy Month, this moderated discussion with Valaida Fullwood explores common values, traditions and characteristics of philanthropy among Black Americans. Drawing on research and insights from stories composing her book "Giving Back,” Valaida will share thoughts on how community givers and doers can have greater impact and lead positive change. The talk is a prelude to Akron’s exhibition of The Soul of Philanthropy, which opens November 2025 at Akron Art Museum. Come to see philanthropy differently.

Since 2021, the landscape of collegiate athletics has been in a state of rapid transformation. One could argue that it has experienced more change in the past three years than in the previous fifty. This transformation has been marked by the introduction of NIL, which allows student-athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness.

One of the consequential materials industries of the 20th century is facing its most difficult challenge yet, as society expects plastics to provide the same level of comfort and convenience, we are used to without harming the environment when we create and dispose of them.

Dr. Jennifer Savitski will discuss the current state of abortion access, the impact of State legislation and how providers and patients across the country are adapting to this new landscape of women’s healthcare.

Joshua Darr will discuss his research showing how stronger local news can push back on polarization, make government work better, and adapt to today’s media environment.

Margaret Mitchell is a researcher focused on the ins and outs of machine learning and ethics-informed AI development in tech.

Now in its 50th year, NEOMED is a single university with more than 1,000 students with four colleges of its own ― Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy and Graduate Studies, and the Bitonte College of Dentistry.

Since being elected to Council, Shammas Malik has worked hard every day on real solutions to the challenges Akron faces.

Theron Brown will take us on a musical journey from past to present as he unpacks the stories and spirit of Howard Street.

Join Akron Roundtable for our second Bringing It Home Program featuring a panel of experts as they dig deeper into the topic of cannabis and what the November 7 ballot issue means for Ohio and the Akron area.

After more than 40 years practicing in corporate finance and merger and acquisition matters, primarily with large law firms and for large companies, Steve joined Brennan, Manna & Diamond as managing partner of its Scottsdale office, offering the value imbedded in the experience, skills, contacts, and relationships developed representing both large institutional and entrepreneurial clients with the personal attention, agility, and flexibility of a boutique.