Cincinnati, Ohio (February 28, 2025) — On Thursday, February 27th, at its Annual Dinner, the Cincinnati Regional Chamber recognized eight individuals as honorees of its We Are Making Black History campaign. Now in its 7th year, Making Black History highlights Black leaders living and working in our region creating legacies today. These leaders are from diverse backgrounds and professions, united by their commitment to excellence. We Are Making Black History is generously supported by BT Rise and Frost Brown Todd.
“This year, we proudly celebrate eight remarkable Black leaders whose contributions are shaping the future of our region across the arts, nonprofit, and business sectors,” said Devona Stripling, Director of the Chamber’s WE Excel and Everyone Belongs Here initiatives. “These individuals are leveraging their skills, talents, and passions not only to uplift others but to redefine what an inclusive, thriving community should look like. Their impact is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and collection action – proof that when we growth together, we grow stronger.”
These honorees are trailblazers who continue to break barriers and set new standards of excellence in their respective fields. Their dedication and leadership inspire progress, creating pathways for the next generation and strengthening the vibrancy of our community.
This year’s We Are Making Black History are:
- Damian Hoskins | Executive Director at Elementz Cincinnati
- Kai Lewars | Principal and Founder Kaiker Development and Construction
- Sheryl Long | City Manager at the City Of Cincinnati
- Roddell McCullough | Chief Corporate Officer at First Financial Bank
- David Minor | Director of Worship Arts & Media at Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church
- Rickell Howard Smith | President & CEO of YWCA Greater Cincinnati
- Robie K. Suggs | President and CEO of Warsaw Federal Savings and Loan
- Siobhan Taylor | President & CEO at DePaul Cristo Rey High School
More information about the program and previous honorees can be found at: https://cincinnatichamber.com/recognize-celebrate-businesses-and-people/we-are-making-black-history/
About the Cincinnati Regional Chamber
The Cincinnati Regional Chamber is the premier business and civic organization dedicated to growing the vibrancy and economic prosperity of the Cincinnati region. To achieve its vision that Cincinnati is a growing, thriving region where everyone belongs, the Chamber seeks to grow our economy, grow our population, and grow our cultural vibrancy – with the foundation of a strong business community – to foster a welcoming environment for all. The Chamber’s membership offerings, signature leadership programs, government and regional advocacy efforts, community events such as BLINK and Oktoberfest as well as key partnerships with organizations like Cincinnati Experience, Cincinnati Compass, Cincinnati Minority Business Accelerator, and the Workforce Innovation Center lead the way in making that vision a reality. For more information, visit www.cincinnatichamber.com.
Media Contact:
Amy Fitzgibbons, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, Cincinnati Regional Chamber afitzgibbons@cincinnatichamber.com | 513.579.3106
