Professor and Ohio Research Scholar Endowed Chair

School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron

Originally from India, have wide-ranging professional and personal experiences in balancing highest caliber of professional success, while balancing it with the multifaceted challenges of the immigrant experience, racism, being a female professor in STEM fields while maintaining integrity and rising above the fray.I am actively involved in outreach and volunteering activities especially for women in STEM fields, under-represented groups, and immigrant women and kids. I am also passionate about communicating the excitement of cutting-edge research in STEM fields and the challenges involved as an "intersectional" scientist. I have been interviewed many times on NPR, and have featured in an award-winning documentary film directed by the famous Werner Herzog. I would like to serve on the ENLI board because I am eager to expand my knowledge about the specific challenges and opportunities that women face in improving their professional nd personal lives in the greater Akron area. This city has the heart and the ability to flourish and lead again, like it once did, with imagination and inclusivity-focussed idea and initiatives. I humbly believe that my experiences could contribute in these efforts, while I would myself grow and learn from such service.

Asst. Director of Funded Project

Case Western Reserve University

Seeking to give back to the community that gave me so much. When I experienced Mental Health in my own family I realized how much I did not know and how it affected the caregivers.

School Director

Oakmont Education

I would like to begin to expand my service and leadership beyond the school building. I believe board service can assist me in being a better educational leader, thus helping me to better serve my students, teachers, parents, and community.

Chief External Affairs Officer, Senior Vice President

Akron Zoological Park

Through my work, I experienced firsthand the importance of giving your time, talent, and treasure and how simple actions can have a significant impact. I find volunteering rewarding and want to use my talents and position to be able to help the community.

CEO

Wickliffe Academy Child Care

I have worked in corporate America and now on my own for more than 30 years. I have so many experiences that shaped who I am as a female leader and entrepreneur. My desire is to help others realize their dreams of becoming a business owner or help those who prefer to work in a corporate environment achieve their zenith. I feel fulfilled when I can help others grow and stretch beyond their comfort zone to produce extraordinary results.

Financial and Administrative Clerk

Hopson Communications & Coaching, LLC

I want to be part of something that will allow me to assist at least 1 person with their objective of improving the quality of their own lives. As well as, helping them to position themselves to help another individual improve the quality of theirs.

Director of Operations

RAHAB Ministries, Inc.

Associate Director

Akron General Medical Center

I would like to get involved more locally and specifically have interest in dementia, children and GLBTQ areas

Senior Web Technologies Analyst

Summa Health

I would like to empower and inspire people to do the things they think they cannot; so that together we can make a positive impact.

Vice President of Marketing

Apex Dermatology

I am deeply committed to our community and strive to make a positive impact both professionally and personally. I offer collaborative leadership, depth of experience in all facets of marketing, and expertise in healthcare.

Director of Medical Education

Summa Health

I hope to gain a better understanding of the needs of our community and have a direct impact on things that matter to those around me.

Lead Emerging Quality Manager 

Bridgestone Americas Tire 

Service is part of who I am, I have organized service events and fundraising for more than a dozen non-profit organizations. Including: March of Dimes, Akron Childrens Hospital, CornerStone Rehab, Battered Womens Shelter, and St. Francis de Sales. I truly love helping the under privileged. Being a Women in a Mans Field, I have served on many Women panels including GAC, I run multiple girls in STEM organizations and I serve on the Bridgestone Women Network Board. As a member of the Board I will shorten the Gap for Akron Women. I will be a supportive member and make the best choice for our community.

VP, Workforce and Education

TPMA

I am interested in securing a board position that allows me to bring my leadership experience to a local non-profit or community-focused organization in the Akron area.

Project Manager

Greater Akron Chamber

I am an advocate for the Akron community as a whole, and supporter of women uplifting other women!

Director of Donor Relations and Community Engagement 

Hope & Healing Survivor Resource Center

VP, People & Culture

Risk International Services, LLC

With more than 20 years of experience in Human Resources in private, public, and non-profit organizations, Sarah provides valuable insight into the importance of People Operations within successful organizations. She is a strategic and tactical leader who is responsible for driving cultural initiatives, performance management, talent acquisition, engagement, retention, learning and career development, and workforce planning. Sarah previously held the position of Director of Human Resources at the United Way of Greater Cleveland and worked closely with the Board and community volunteers. Sarah’s time at UWGC gave her a greater understanding of the socioeconomic factors that impact our communities and the workforce. She looks forward to the opportunity to give back by sharing her knowledge and expertise in Human Resources.

Director - Project Management, Environmental

The Babcock & Wilcox Company

I love to apply my skills to help others and organizations.

Director of Communications & Marketing

Babcock & Wilcox

I love the quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in which he said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?” I believe everyone can, and should, volunteer in some way, sharing their time and talents to help those who are less fortunate, and helping to effect change to make our communities a better place to live and work.

Community And Citizenship Manager

Turner Construction

Serving on a board holds significant importance in driving innovation. A board plays a crucial role in shaping the path of a business, community, and region. It is essential to have members who share a common goal but also bring diverse perspectives to the table, ensuring a comprehensive consideration of various viewpoints.

Manager

CliftonLarsonAllen

I have been working on a couple of different boards and I’m looking for a new challenge in other areas I am passionate about.

DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery)

Axesspointe Community Health Center

I feel having worked on various projects and worked in the community and for the community have given me something that I can use to serve a board

Senior Operations Manager

Amazon

I was born in raised in Northeast Ohio and am very passionate about giving back to the community. I do a lot of my community work through Amazon channels, but would love to be able to expand my horizons and get involved in other organizations. Personally, what I would love to get out of joining a board is the opportunity to learn more about and industry I am not familiar with.

Manager, Industry and Innovation Programs

Team NEO/ JobsOhio

I have previously served on non-profit boards, one of which supported women in industry (Rosie the Riveter Trust). Fostering that community is important to me personally as well as an impactful resource for the region.

Director Sales and Growth, APS

Nesco Resource

As I enter a new season of life as an empty nester, I am looking for opportunities to become more involved in my community and support organizations that make a difference. I hope to contribute my leadership and business experience while building meaningful relationships and expanding my understanding of nonprofit board service.

Director, People Operations/Human Resources

The Babcock & Wilcox Company

I am eager to engage and be part of something greater than me. I would like to serve on a board to contribute to the growth and vitality of the Akron community, leveraging my skills to support local organizations in achieving their missions. I believe that strong, inclusive leadership is essential for community development and education, and I am eager to collaborate with fellow leaders to drive positive change and innovation in Akron.

Chief Product Officer 

GOJO Industries

I"m looking for a Board experience to share my talents and time. I"m a highly effective collaborator dot connecting disparate ideas to bring together actionable outcomes. Personally, I would like to engage more in our community, support positive outcomes locally and work with engaging, talented people in delivering these goals.

Engagement & Impact Director

Leadership Akron

With extensive experience in strategic planning and community engagement, I am eager to serve on a board to contribute my skills in fostering organizational growth and making a positive impact. I hope to gain new insights, build meaningful connections, and drive initiatives that support the organization's mission and values, while also contributing to the overall community.

Nurse Manager

Cleveland Clinic Akron General

I have always wanted to serve on a board to enhance my leadership skills and be able to share my knowledge and experience with others. After I completed the Tony Gorant Leadership Akron program in 2022, I have been looking for an opportunity to get involved in the community and serve on a board. I have a positive outlook and passion for process improvement. I would love the opportunity to share my insight and contribute to this board.

Vice President

Ballet Excel Ohio

I would like to serve to empower women and youth in the community. I would like to be a part of something that empowers others, helps them find their passion and talent and that allows the community and world to be a better place.

Section Manager

Burns & McDonnell

I am interested in serving on a board to represent our female presence in the construction industry and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community. I believe I would gain knowledge from other like-minded individuals, build a stronger professional network, and hopefully make a difference in our community.

Chief Executive Officer

Kindred Spirit Behavioral Health

Serving on boards is a passion and niche. It provides ongoing opportunities for growth and development and opportunities to network, connect, and work with a diverse group of leaders and professionals. Serving on a board will allow me to give back while also strengthening my leadership skills and expanding my knowledge and expertise.

Front Line Manager

BWXT

I want to become a great mentor to younger ladies interested in joining our workforce. I absolutely enjoy and love the path I’ve chosen and want to stress to them, even though it’s male dominated…….we can make a great difference.

Program Manager

Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority

I recently relocated to Akron and am excited to serve our great community and get connected to the amazing folks leading those efforts. I enjoy staying busy and being on working boards and committees, in the efforts of making real contributions. My areas of interest are victim services/advocacy, substance use, animal rights/welfare, adult education and supporting non-profits doing work that supports these efforts.

Director of Operations

Jobs for Ohio's Graduates

Serving on a board allows me to contribute my expertise and make meaningful decisions that shape the organization"s future. I love surrounding myself with individuals who are not like-minded and I hope to gain valuable leadership experience, expand my network, and make a positive impact on the community through my board service.

VP, Northern Ohio OFW Market Manager

PNC Bank

I enjoy serving on boards as I have always had a passion for contributing to and collaborating with like-minded individuals. I hope to gain deeper insights into different areas of the greater community and grow both personally and professionally through this impactful experience.

President

JDV Med Spa

I would love to be on the board to be a part of the community, empower other business owners through sharing information, offering any tips I may have to help others, and try to help or come up with creative content to interest others to join or attend the chamber/meetings.