CEO, The Spice Age Group | Founder, Passport 2 Fashion | Business Operations Consultant, 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.

Co-Founder and Executive Director at Core Legacy

Airielle Dotson (she/her) is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Core Legacy, a grassroots nonprofit organization focused on educating and empowering young men and women who have experienced childhood trauma. She also serves as a Success Coach for The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio where she mentors youth at Northland High School.

Airielle was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. She received a bachelor’s degree in economics from The Ohio State University in 2019. She has aspirations to get her master’s degree from The Ohio State University’s John Glenn College of Public Affairs in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management. She has a passion for public service and is dedicated to advocating for underrepresented communities.

Airielle has also been a member of the Ohio Air National Guard since 2010 where she serves as the Executive Assistant to the State Command Chief.

Associate Director, Development at American Cancer Society

Alli Murphy serves as the Associate Director, Development for the American Cancer Society, overseeing the Columbus & Dayton markets and fundraising events. She has been with the Society for four years. She graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Communications. She also volunteers as a dog foster for Stop the Suffering Animal Rescue. In her spare time, Alli enjoys reading, running, and walking her dog Sophie around their Arena District neighborhood with her fiancé Ryan.

CEO at Healing Without Limits Counseling & Consulting

Senior Manager, Marketing at The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption

Casey Sudzina is a communications and marketing professional passionate about helping organizations strategize their messaging and storytelling to amplify the impact on the communities they serve.

She is currently serving as the Senior Manager, Marketing at The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, where she helps develop an integrated strategy to communicate with target audiences to increase awareness of and financial support for the Foundation’s mission of finding permanent homes for the more than 140,000 children waiting in North America’s foster care systems.

Casey graduated from The Ohio State University with a dual-degree - a B.A. in Strategic Communication & a B.S. in Sport Industry. Since spending her college and young professional years in Columbus, Casey has developed a fierce passion for local Columbus non-profits, small businesses, and startups. In her spare time, you can find her reading, watching Gilmore Girls re-runs, or hanging out with her goldendoodle pup Mowgli.

Communications Director at the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation

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. After a brief stint as a journalist in New York, Cassandra moved back to her home in Columbus, Ohio to serve her community as a nonprofit communicator. She has worked with multiple nonprofits on achieving visibility. She also continues to freelance as a writer for national publications, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. She lives with her husband Jeff, Australian Shepherd, Bonnie, and seven delightful hens.

Staff Nurse at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center-James Cancer Hospital

A Columbus native, Catharyne Henderson moved away for a brief stint while receiving her degree and returned. She is currently a staff nurse at OSUWMC in the James Cancer Hospital on a surgical oncology unit and has been there almost 9 years. She is involved at the unit level as the Education chair and a member of the Unit Council. She is involved as a union board member, ONA Commissioner/board member and also the VP for PLSD Ridgeview JHS PTO. In her free time, Catharyne enjoystraveling, art, history and architecture.

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

Administrative Director of The Woltemade Center at Ohio Wesleyan University

Destiny L. Coleman is a dynamic education and administrative professional with significant experience in program creation and management with a proven ability to cultivate community partnerships. Ms. Coleman is currently the Administrative Director of The Woltemade Center for Economics, Business & Entrepreneurship at Ohio Wesleyan University and serves on the Converging Arts Columbus Board.

Previously, she served as the Director of Education and Artistic Administration for Opera Columbus. In that role, she oversaw the administration of annual productions and managed the creation and implementation of 12 educational programs and 25 community partnerships with local organizations and universities, reaching more than 16,000 people each year. Ms. Coleman received acclaim after she conceptualized, created, and directed the Opera Columbus productions of The Voice of Freedom, The Voice of Freedom: Civil Rights, The Journey, A Celebration of Music Inspired by African-American Culture, and The Journey: Civil Rights. These community performances, centered around diversity and inclusion, offered over 100 artists of color opportunities to perform throughout central Ohio.

In 2020, she was recognized as an emerging leader in Columbus and awarded the Next Up Columbus Award by the Columbus Young Professionals Club and CityPulse Columbus. 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.

Public Relations and Community Outreach Officer at CNB Bank

Emily Fisher is the Public Relations and Community Outreach Officer for CNB Bank. Originally from Westerville, Emily has spent most of her life in Columbus and is currently a proud Northland resident. She received her BA in Political Science from the University of Cincinnati and MPS in Community and Economic Development from Penn State University. Emily is a graduate of the YWCA Columbus Leadership for Social Change program (2020) and the CYP Club’s Columbus Impact Academy (2021). In her free time, Emily enjoys traveling, walking her dog Milkshake, and trying out all that Columbus has to offer, from metroparks to restaurants to popups.

HR Director at Vis a Vis Health

Erica S. Howard helps improve business performance and provide guidance to employers on how to navigate through employee relations concerns through benefit questions. With over 10 years of HR experience and SHRM-CP certification, she holds a B.S. in HR Management from Wright State University and considers Dayton, OH as her hometown.

Erica is also the owner of Gen Wealth Investments - a Real Estate Investment Company committed to helping employ woman and minority owned businesses and an author of “Between Now & Marriage: A Christian’s Woman’s Guide to Navigating Her Single Season.” She is committed to not only giving back to those who look like her, but is willing to share her knowledge to help inspire others to embrace their own passion.

Erica is involved with HRACO (Human Resource Association of Central Ohio), NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners), CULYP (Columbus Urban League Young Professionals), and 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.

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

Mentorship Program Manager at After-School All-Stars Ohio

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 Consultant, Customer Retention at Cardinal Health

Fueled by telling a great story and lending a helping hand, Laura Baird is a purpose-driven marketing and communications professional dedicated to collaboration and curiosity. In the early stages of her career, Laura partnered with clients in agriculture, architecture and design, public utility, and economic development to drive their media relations efforts, social media presence, and strategic planning initiatives. She also played a key role in crafting company culture through the execution of a company-wide holiday food drive and the revival of an internship program. Laura took her early learnings to the global stage when transitioning into her current role at Cardinal Health, where she leads customer retention strategies for retail independent pharmacies across the United States.

Laura has a heart for service and uses her talents outside the office to support organizations important to her. She has been a member of the Programs Committee for the Central Ohio Public Relations Society of America since 2019 and received the chapter’s Volunteer of the Year Award in 2022. Laura also joined the Columbus Young Professionals (CYP) Club upon her graduation from The Ohio State University and is an alumna of the Columbus Impact Academy and an active member of CYP Club Cares. She is also the Public Relations and Marketing Advisor for the Theta chapter of Delta Zeta.

A lifelong learner, Laura returned to her alma mater in 2021 to pursue her Master of Public Administration at The John Glenn College of Public Affairs, with a specialization in nonprofit management.

In her spare time, you will find Laura kayaking central Ohio’s waterways, exploring the local restaurant scene, or reading her latest find from the Columbus Metropolitan Library.

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.

Director of Development at Clean Fuels Ohio

Owner of the Columbus Futsal Club

Program Coordinator at The Ohio State University Nisonger Center

Owner of Style Amplified

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

CEO/Founder at Rachel Brooks LLC

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

Employee Engagement & Recognition Manager at Discover Financial Services

Director, Enterprise Business Delivery Operations Leader at Nationwide

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.

Director of Programming at The Urban Business Development Center

Co-CEO at MYLE

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.

Human Resources Trainer at Columbus State Community College

Founder and Executive Director at Think Make Live Youth

Associate Underwriting Specialist at Encova Insurance

Founder/Owner at TJE Communications

Tonnisha English is a full-time entrepreneur and Founder of TJE Communications. Her company specializes in helping small businesses level the playing field through digital marketing solutions. Tonnisha has worked with non-profits, e-commerce and retail brands, health brands, hair care, food and restaurant, construction, and more.

Tonnisha is also a mom raising a future boss and powerhouse!

HR and Benefits Manager at Red Roof Franchising

Founder of She Radiates | Account Manager at Involve

Yiema John is Long Island-raised, Columbus-based PR/communications professional. With almost a decade under her belt, Yiema has been fortunate to work with clients from retail to politics and everything in between. Her personal mission is to inspire others to live a more fulfilled, inspired, and intentional life. You can keep up with her on her eponymous site, yiemajohn.com.