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

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.

Manager

MGM Northfield Park

I am looking to gain more leadership experience and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. I am big on giving back to my community, and now that I no longer work in the non-profit sector, I"m looking to bring more purpose to my work.

Underwriter

National Interstate Insurance Company of Hawaii

I want to motivate other women by sharing my personal experiences and being a support system. I want mentorship from other women. I want to be an example, especially for my daughter, that we as women are capable and everything we want is achievable.

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.

Strategic Communications Vice President

GOJO, Makers of PURELL

There are several reasons I am interested in serving on a board. They include making a contribution through my communications skills and experience, engaging in networking and making connections for personal and professional growth, and exposure to new learnings and opportunities for development. Finally, I have lived in Summit County and worked for more than 24 years in Akron, and giving back to this great city and community would give me personal fulfillment.

Project Manager

Greater Akron Chamber

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

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, Co-op and Placement Program

The University of Akron

President & CEO

Better Business Bureau (BBB) Akron

I choose to volunteer for local Boards to further engrain myself in the community and help other organizations thrive.

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.

Sr. Manager, Small Business Engagement

Greater Akron Chamber

I am interested in lending my time and talents to organizations that share my interests in strengthening our community.

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.

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.

Director of Human Resources

City of Twinsburg

I love Summit County and the Akron area and love serving the 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.

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.

Senior Accountant I

CLE Consulting Firm

Senior Associate

BDO

I think it is so important to give back to the community in some way. Having served on boards in the past, I think my accounting knowledge and experience would lend itself well to boards in the community. I am hoping that through serving on a board I will be able to increase my network and make a difference in the community.

Vice President, Marketing & Communications

Sandridge Crafted Foods

I want to serve on a board to use my skills and experiences to support organizations that align with my values and positively impact communities, especially in areas that nurture learning, well-being, and the environment. Through board service, I hope to contribute strategically while also growing personally by collaborating with passionate leaders committed to making a difference.

External Affairs Advisor, APS Americas and Ohio

LyondellBasell

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with amazing leaders and organizations who strive to make our communities stronger and more equitable for all. I believe my experience and passion can help organizations reach their goals. I am a strategist and big picture thinker who is curious by nature.

Controller

Keystone Technology Consultants

Serving on a board can be a tremendous learning experience. I truly believe it is a way to give back to my community. It would be personally fulfilling to use my skills and experience to make a positive impact and help shape the future of an organization.

Owner - Bookkeeper/ Virtual Assistant

Going Beyond Bookkeeping LLC.

I love bringing operations and financial insight to the boards I serve. This allows board members to focus on the true mission of the organization.

Director, Inclusive Opportunity & Outreach

United Way of Summit & Medina

I desire to serve so that minority representation is present in conversations and rooms where it was historically unwelcomed. Also to lend fresh and multifaceted perspective for the furthering of tearing down and rebuilding faulty systems. I want learn more about Akron/Summit County's programs and services to offer ways to enhance and support the growth of all who call this community "home". I anticipate gaining experience and expertise to pour back into the organizations I serve, the community, and other minorities who need opportunity.

Medina Senior Shelter Manager

Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center

I want to serve on a board because I am passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities, particularly those who are vulnerable and underserved. Having worked closely with survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault, I’ve developed a deep commitment to supporting these individuals and advocating for systemic change. Serving on a board will provide me with the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded professionals, share my expertise, and contribute to strategic decisions that can create lasting change. What I hope to gain from board service is a deeper understanding of the broader challenges and opportunities within the field, as well as the chance to strengthen my leadership and advocacy skills in a collaborative, solution-focused environment. I am eager to learn from others and work together to amplify the impact of the organization’s mission.