COLUMBUS LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

CEO at The Spice Age Group

Founder of Passport 2 Fashion

Business Operations Consultant at The Ohio State University

Aditi Bhatiya is an accomplished professional with over 17 years of robust experience in biomedical research, business operations, regulatory compliance, space & facility management, program development, and process improvement at one of the nation’s top 20 public universities. She is also an entrepreneur who believes in offering transformative digital solutions to small businesses and nonprofit organizations to help them achieve their goals.

A passionate changemaker, Aditi is the founder of Passport to Fashion - a platform that strives to empower those with diverse cultural backgrounds, different gender identities, and body types to celebrate their individuality through creative expression. Passport to Fashion promotes diversity and inclusiveness on and off the runway. As a leader, her approach focuses on fostering empathetic communication strategies and building streamlined processes and workflows resulting in a long track record of success. She constantly strives to evolve as an individual and professional.

Venture Development Analyst at The Ohio State University

CEO at Healing Without Limits Counseling & Consulting

Senior Media Planner & Buyer at The Strategy Group Company

Owner of Like-Minded Marketing

Cassandra Kelly is a professional marketer, storyteller, and changemaker. Through her work, she hopes to empower others with knowledge and understanding about science, history, and above all themselves. ​She holds a Bachelor of Science in Journalism Communications from Ohio University.

Co-Owner & COO at Warhol & WALL ST.

Christopher “Chris” Jones is the co-founder and COO of Warhol & WALL ST., a leading creative engagement consulting firm that helps increase the human valuation of brands, creatives, and people by connecting them through authentic & meaningful moments. In his career, his #CleverEconomics mind set has created a proven track record of helping many brands and people Cut Through the Clutter & #BEHEARD. He crafts sound marketing strategies that “wow” clients with his data-driven mindset, strategic collaboration, and eye for popular culture trends including micro-influencers. His insight for managing scope, timeline, budget, and customer expectation helps him craft workflows that make clients say “whoa” upon delivery to every client, consultant, board commitment, and volunteer opportunity. Chris holds a BA in Economics from The Ohio State University and a M.S. in Marketing & Communications from Franklin University. Chris has been called a top “branding mind,” “idea connector” and “mindset speaker” that people should watch now and into the future.

HR Manager at BrewDog

Founder & CEO at Columbus Young Professionals (CYP) Club

President at City Venture Holdings, LLC

Chairman at The Grosso Group

Derek Grosso is a seasoned entrepreneur, community-builder, and visionary leader dedicated to fostering collaboration and empowering membership-based organizations. As the founder and CEO of the Columbus Young Professionals (CYP) Club, established in 2005, Derek has grown the organization into the nation’s largest association for young professionals, boasting over 20,000 members. Under his leadership, the CYP Club has transformed into a dynamic force for advancing careers, community, conversations, and culture across Ohio.

Under Derek’s leadership, the CYP Club and its various initiatives have fostered thousands of personal and professional connections, volunteered over 100,000 hours, and raised more than $750,000 for Ohio charities. Columbus Business First has consistently recognized the organization on its Corporate Citizenship list, citing $328,800 in-kind contributions to nonprofits.

Derek’s portfolio includes the Columbus Impact Academy, a six-month leadership program emphasizing place and purpose; A Taste of Columbus, a citywide event featuring 50+ food & drink stations offering complimentary sample bites & tasting pours; the Women of Inspiration Summit Experience (WISE), a quarterly event attracting hundreds of leaders; and the management of major community events such as The Grandview Hop and the Scioto Arts Market, both of which support local businesses, live music, and the arts. Through The Grosso Group, Derek has guided nearly 100 organizations to success, including chambers of commerce, young professional organizations (YPOs), and employee resource groups (ERGs) in cities such as Chicago, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Nashville. His expertise lies in helping organizations achieve sustainable growth through member engagement, community impact, and innovative programming.

Derek is a sought-after speaker and thought leader on engaging and empowering young professionals. His insights have inspired audiences at renowned organizations such as Cardinal Health, JPMorgan Chase, Honda, Franklin University, and The Ohio State University. He has also been honored with numerous awards for his leadership and community impact, including:

• Columbus Chamber's Young Professional Leadership Award (2011): Recognized for exemplary leadership and contributions to the community.

• Columbus Business First's 40 Under 40 Award (2017): Celebrated as a top business leader under the age of 40 in Central Ohio.

• Columbus CEO's Future 50 Award (2019): Highlighted as one of Central Ohio’s visionary leaders committed to making Columbus a word-class city.

• Smart Business Magazine's Smart 50 Award (2023): Acknowledged for effectively building and leading organizations in Ohio.

As a sought-after speaker and advisor, Derek has shared insights on engaging and activating the next generation with organizations such as Cardinal Health, Discover Financial, JPMorgan Chase, Honda, The Ohio State University, and the Ohio Growth Summit. His expertise spans topics like leadership development, community impact, and innovative programming.

Derek studied entrepreneurship and small business management at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He continues to serve the community through the Columbus Leadership Council, Think Make Live Youth, and Franklin University Leadership Center.

Director of The Woltemade Center at Ohio Wesleyan University

Destiny L. Coleman is a creative director, writer, and classically trained mezzo-soprano celebrated for her dynamic contributions to arts and education. With a distinctive blend of creativity and leadership, she has mastered the art of program creation, management, and community engagement. As the Director of The Woltemade Center for Economics, Business & Entrepreneurship at Ohio Wesleyan University, she fosters innovation and collaboration across disciplines.

Previously, Ms. Coleman served as Director of Education and Artistic Administration for Opera Columbus, where she oversaw the production of annual performances and spearheaded the development of 12 groundbreaking educational programs and 25 community partnerships, engaging over 16,000 individuals annually. As a mezzo-soprano, Ms. Coleman has performed with The Ohio State University, Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Opera Columbus, and the Lincoln Theatre. She has also performed with artists Heather Headley and Andrea Bocelli, captivating audiences with her artistry and passion.

She has received several awards, including the Next Up Columbus Award from the Columbus Young Professionals Club, recognizing emerging leaders making a positive impact on the future of Columbus; the Sir William Osler, MD, Award from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, honoring her leadership in the Columbus arts community and her commitment to bringing the performing arts to OSU medical center staff and patients; and, in 2023, The Journey: Civil Rights, created and directed by Ms. Coleman, earned the Greater Columbus Arts Council’s Columbus Makes Art Excellence Award, recognized for outstanding achievements in innovation, risk, and artistic excellence in a performance.

Ms. Coleman holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from The Ohio State University and a Master of Science in Business Management and Leadership from Western Governors University. She actively contributes to the arts community as a Board Member of Converging Arts Columbus, Greater Columbus Arts Council Navigator, and Culture Co-Chair of the Columbus Young Professionals Club Leadership Council. She is also an alum of the YWCA Leadership for Social Change Program, the Columbus Young Professionals Club Leadership Academy, and Leadership Delaware County.

Human Resources Director at Vis A Vis Health

Director of Leadership at CYP Club

Multi-Media Artist, Entertainer & Creative Coach

Gabrielle Solange is a singer, songwriter, producer, multi-media artist and TEDx speaker. Her performances are "genre-fluid," ranging from experimental pop to free-flowing jazz - drawing inspiration from her multi-cultural background and love for all music. While she loves to have fun on stage, she mostly sees entertainment as a way to heal, educate, and empower. Her at-times uncomfortably honest, yet refreshingly vulnerable storytelling has enabled her to connect with diverse audiences on controversial issues. 

She also hosts creative group workshops and teaches private vocal lessons through her company, RunSong Studios, empowering people of all ages to express themselves, connect with others, and overcome life issues using art and music. She has hosted workshops for the Columbus Urban League, OSU, Heartland High school, the Second Sight Project, and many schools, ministries, and organizations locally and abroad. You can see where she's performing next or book her to host creative workshops at gabriellesolange.com.

Senior Consultant at The Vertex Companies LLC

Climate Insights Analyst at Huntington National Bank

Senior Communications Coordinator at Downtown Columbus, Inc.

Senior Development Manager at American Cancer Society

Isabelle's career has spanned the nonprofit sector with a laser focus on community building and diversity, equity, and inclusion. From grassroots field organizing and social media to her current role in event planning and development, she showcases a proven dedication to positive business results that change lives for the better through effective organization, prioritization and follow-through of organizational projects and initiatives.

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IT Infrastructure Project Manager at Huntington National Bank

Managing Partner, Orbit Media Group

Johna Charles is an experienced marketing management professional with a strong background in digital marketing and a passion for driving results. With over 10 years of expertise in the field, Johna has honed a diverse set of skills in the marketing industry.

As a results-driven individual, Johna has a proven track record of analyzing market trends and implementing successful marketing campaigns to increase profits and return on investment. With a keen eye for research and client needs, Johna excels in this space by guiding staff, and monitoring campaign outcomes.

In addition to professional roles, Johna is now the managing partner of Orbit Media Group. A digital marketing agency based in New Albany, He is offering expertise in website design and technology solutions, including branding and strategy, web development, and lead generation campaigns. Johna's tech-savvy nature and familiarity with marketing tools have been invaluable assets in delivering successful digital marketing strategies.

Johna's commitment to community involvement is evident through volunteer experiences with organizations like Feazel Cares and New Albany Young Professionals, and the New Albany Chamber of Commerce where Johna contributed to building relationships with local charities and increasing community engagement.

Based in New Albany, Johna is known for being a skilled communicator, presenting ideas effectively to shareholders and investors. With proficiency in marketing strategy, lead generation, brand management, and competitive analysis, Johna continues to create cohesive relationships with both internal and external partners, driving success in the dynamic world of marketing.

Development Director at Orange Barrel Media

Events Producer at Columbus Chamber of Commerce

Marketing Director at Opera Columbus

Director of Mentorship - After-School All-Stars Ohio

Kirstin Buckner is a public health leader with over a decade of experience in developing and managing programs that enhance the well-being of children and families in urban communities. She holds a BS in Public Health Education and Promotion from the University of Cincinnati and multiple certifications in trauma and resilience, neurosequential model in education, and public and non-profit leadership.

As the Director of Mentorship and Community Partnerships at After-School All-Stars Ohio, she oversees the organization's service proposal budget, growth targets, and community engagement. She has successfully implemented evidence-based and community-informed interventions, expanded community partnerships, and increased family and community participation. She also led the development and implementation of the ASAS Mentoring Buddies program, which fosters trust and rapport between youth and first responders. Under her leadership, the program increased participation by 25% within a year and integrated trauma-responsive strategies into the interactions.

Kirstin is passionate about advocacy, service, and social impact. She has a keen understanding of how the environment shapes health and well-being for the underserved and marginalized residents in the Columbus region. She is a strategic thinker, a creative problem-solver, and an effective communicator. She excels at identifying strengths and weaknesses, implementing operational improvements, and facilitating community conversations. She is not afraid to explore new territories and experiment with new ways of doing things. Kirstin is a pioneering, dedicated, and collaborative public health professional.

Director at Ohio America Pageants

Kristi Miller Nunn is the director of Ohio America Pageants. Kristi is a former Mrs. Ohio America (2019), achieving a goal she’s had since childhood. Kristi utilized her time as Mrs. Ohio to connect with local organizations, such as A Kid Again and Habitat for Humanity, and give back. Every titleholder since 2019 has remained involved with these organizations, inspiring the philanthropic efforts of other women. Kristi has remained active in the Mrs. Ohio organization and made it her mission to help other women realize their potential and achieve their dreams through pageantry.

She recently started a production company with a mission to produce local events that empower women by cultivating skills that will help them personally and professionally. In the summer of 2023, Kristi will expand these events to include girls ages 12-18. Since accepting the Director role, she has exclusively utilized Central Ohio businesses and works to network local organizations and people to benefit the community. Kristi is a Central Ohio native and enjoys showing others what Columbus has to offer. She is an avid fan of the Columbus sports and arts communities. She currently resides in Lewis Center with her husband (Daniel), son (Jaksen) and 3 dogs.

Marketing & Media Manager at Greater Columbus Convention Center

Leslie Nutter is the Marketing & Media Manager at the ASM Global-managed Greater Columbus Convention Center (GCCC) where she is responsible for streamlining the sales and marketing team, public relations, and rebranding the digital marketing outlets including social media, GCCC website, email, blog and more. Growing up as a dependent of the Air Force, she has lived most of her life in many different regions of the United States and overseas. Leslie received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Wright State University.

Two years after graduation, she moved to Columbus to pursue a career in marketing. Before her position at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, she was the marketing assistant at Simon Property Group for the Mall at Tuttle Crossing. In her spare time, you would find Leslie volunteering for various events around Columbus, or catching a bite from some of her favorite local restaurants. You can follower her on social media under the @CBusConventions handle.

Owner of the Columbus Futsal Club

Program Coordinator at The Ohio State University Nisonger Center

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Administrator at Manager at Franklin County - Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Founder of The Confident Woman®

As the visionary founder of The Confident Woman®, Rachel Brooks has built a holistic lifestyle brand dedicated to inspiring women to live authentically, redefine success, and embrace their personal power. Through her supportive community, personalized coaching, and curated resources, Rachel provide women with the tools to lead lives filled with confidence, freedom, and fulfillment.

Director of Advancement + Cooper-Bing Associate Producer at Opera Columbus

Rachel Will has experience teaching and performing various genres such as classical, musical theatre, jazz, swing, and contemporary church music. She is a music director as well as a creative arts director, overseeing arts marketing, creative design, production, and vocal/instrumental performance. She is passionate about helping individuals discover and explore their own voice through music and the arts.

Rachel is a champion for others, passionately empowering women to find their creative purpose. In addition, she has extensive knowledge in career guidance, leadership development, and strategically fosters community and organizational partnerships to further support inclusivity through community connection.

Freelance Vocalist + Performer | Music + Creative Arts Director at Legacy Church | Private Studio Coach for Voice + Piano | Music Educator Multi Age PK-12 | HS Stage Director | Director of Advancement + Cooper-Bing Associate Producer at Opera Columbus | Leadership Development | Master of Arts in Performing Arts Administration | Bachelor of Arts in Music Education + Vocal Performance | Women's Leadership and Empowerment Conference Chair + Communications Director

Founder at Ziyah

Executive Director at Wild Goose Creative

University Relations Specialist at Battelle

Sarah Shumick (she/her) is a long-time and proud resident of Columbus where she currently serves as University Relations Specialist at Battelle, the world’s largest independent non-profit research and development organization. Sarah recruits and facilitates programming for Battelle’s university internship and co-op program, where she continues to pursue her passion of helping young professionals build their networks and gain invaluable experience to launch their careers.

Sarah has a background in higher education administration, serving in graduate and non-traditional learner admissions offices at Otterbein and Ohio Dominican universities. Additionally, Sarah previously served in various roles with Columbus Young Professionals Club (CYP Club) where she worked to help launch the first class of the Columbus Impact Academy, served as editor for the CityPulse magazine, and provided support for sponsorship ROI and member events.

Sarah earned a bachelor’s degree from Ashland University and an MBA from Ohio Dominican University. She lives with her husband, two daughters and a menagerie of household pets in Powell, OH.

Department Manager - Cardmember Assistance Recovery at Discover Financial Services

Siana N. Talley is a dedicated professional who has been the Department Manager of Collections for Discover Financial for 10 years. She leads the Professional Women Impacting Results (PWIR) Employee Resource Group at Discover, where the focus is creating an empowering environment for members to pursue their ambitions at each stage in their careers.

Currently, Siana is working on a leadership team to successfully transition Discover Call Centers from New Albany to Whitehall, where the new community-based contact center will be located; this transition includes not only the physical relocation but also community engagement. Siana is responsible for leading the establishment and cultivation of relationships with community-based organizations, such as Columbus Young Professionals, Dress for Success, Women Just Like Me, and more.

Outside of her professional life, Siana enjoys making a positive impact in the community through coaching high school Varsity volleyball, using her skills and experience to mentor and guide young athletes. Siana believes in the power of small actions and lives by the motto, “Do something that makes you happy every single day - big or small!” She recognizes life as a precious gift and believes that while here on earth, everyone needs to collectively do better for ourselves and our communities.

When not working or coaching, Siana’s most important and rewarding life-work is being a mother to her 10-year-old son, Channing. They bond over sports tournaments, cool kicks (also known as shoes), and Tik-Toks, although Channing sometimes teases her for not being cool enough. Siana cherishes her role as a mother and finds joy in the everyday moments shared with her son.

Overall, Siana is a driven and compassionate individual who brings her expertise and passion to both her professional and personal life. She is dedicated to making a positive impact in her community and empowering others to pursue their dreams.

Customer Service Specialist at Columbus Metropolitan Library

HR and Benefits Manager at Red Roof Franchising