African American Leadership Council Presents: “I Invest in ME” Leadership Conference & Fundraiser

Join United Way of Greater Toledo’s African American Leadership Council (AALC) and Owens Community College for the
second annual “I Invest in ME” Leadership Conference and Fundraiser—a dynamic day of inspiration, connection, and growth.

This year’s theme, “Leadership,” will explore how individuals at every stage of their journey can lead with authenticity, confidence, and purpose.
Attendees will gain actionable strategies and insights from community and corporate leaders who exemplify servant leadership in action.

All proceeds from the conference directly support AALC’s mission to empower youth and adult leaders through professional development and mentorship opportunities across the Toledo Region.

In 2024, AALC was able to fund:

• Junior Achievement’s 5th Year Program – Providing professional development for students entering college or the workforce.
• Toledo Public Schools’ Young Men and Young Women of Excellence Programs – Empowering high school students through mentorship and leadership engagement.
• Leadership Toledo’s Signature Program Scholarship – Offering community members the chance to grow as civic-minded leaders.

By attending this event, guests will help AALC continue to uplift and empower the next generation of leaders across northwest Ohio.

This event will feature:

• Keynote Speaker: Dr. Patrice McClellan
• Rodney Eason, Chief Human Resources Officer, Shumaker
• Shayna Duke, MOL, HR Business Partner, Principle Business Enterprises
• Sheila Eason, Founder & CEO, Elevate People Solutions
• Moderator: Alissa Mauter, Founder & CEO, groundUP Creative Agency
• Panelists: Dr. Sidney Childs, President, The Yendis Group; Lisa McDuffie, CEO, YWCA; Reginald Temple, VP, Regional Community Development Officer, Wesco Bank

“We are thrilled to once again welcome the I Invest In ME Leadership Conference to Owens Community College. This event brings incredible energy and inspiration to our campus, and we’re honored to partner once again with the United Way African American Leadership Council. Their commitment to empowering individuals and building stronger communities across Toledo and northwest Ohio is truly impactful. Everyone who attends will walk away feeling energized, empowered, and ready to create positive change in their own lives and in the lives of others.”

– Owens Community College Leadership

A huge THANK YOU to our sponsors.
Presenting Sponsor: Owens Community College
Supporting Sponsors: SSOE Group, KeyBank, City of Toledo Department of Public Utilities

Media Contact

Erin Tupper, United Way of Greater Toledo
erin.tupper@unitedwaytoledo.org
419-254-4785

We unite the power of community to improve lives. United Way of Greater Toledo brings a worldwide network into neighborhoods throughout Northwest Ohio. Proudly serving residents of Lucas, Ottawa, and Wood counties, since 1918 we have believed that we all benefit from each other’s success. As one of the longest-serving charitable organizations in our region, we are trusted, innovative, collaborative and accountable. Most importantly, your contributions serve neighbors right here at home.

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