October 2025

A newsletter for Legacy Leaders regarding projects and civic engagement.


From the Desk of Claudia


Dear Legacy Leaders,


As the season changes, we’re reminded that every new chapter offers fresh opportunities to lead, give back, and inspire others. This fall, we’re inviting you to engage with Cleveland Leadership Center in ways that amplify your impact and strengthen our community.

Legacy Leaders continue to show up! Cleveland Champions 2026 participants include Legacy Leaders Yolanda Armstrong, Annette Blackwell, Jacklyn Chisholm, Terri Eason, Constance Hill-Johnson, Kevin Johnson, and Robert Solomon.

Empower the Next Generation – Become an Accelerate Coach or Volunteer

Cleveland Leadership Center’s Accelerate: Citizens Make Change event, returns soon on Thursday, February 26, 2026 and we’re looking for coaches and volunteers to help participants refine their pitches and ideas that spark positive change across Greater Cleveland. Your experience and insights can make a meaningful difference for these community innovators.


👉 Call to Action: Sign up to serve as a coach, reviewer, or event volunteer at contact me at cowens@cleveleads.org.


Share Your Second Act Story

Be featured on the “For Your Encore” Podcast Series!

We’re seeking Legacy Leaders who are ready to share their Second Act journeys—whether you’ve transitioned into retirement, launched a new passion project, or discovered unexpected purpose in this stage of life. Your story could inspire others navigating change or considering what comes next.


👉 Call to Action: If you’d like to be featured—or know someone with an inspiring encore story—please contact me by email at cowens@cleveleads.org to schedule a conversation.


Legacy Leader Spotlight

Lee Schwebel, Legacy Leader and ALI 2025 Senior Fellow is the guest host of Episode 18:The Power of Intergenerational Communities. Lee and his guests, Darrick McDaniel, DaJon Battle, Tony Peebles, and Kait McNeeley, explored the power of intergenerational communities and what happens when leaders across generations come together to reimagine the future of collaboration.

Listen to all the episodes here.



Thank You for Leading the Way

Your continued involvement helps shape Cleveland’s future and ensures that the spirit of civic leadership endures across generations. Whether through storytelling, mentoring, or showing up for others, you embody what it means to lead with purpose. Please share this newsletter and Legacy Leaders with your friends and colleagues. Encourage them to connect with me at cowens@cleveleads.org to learn more. I wish you and your family good health!


Claudia

Director of Legacy Leader

cowens@cleveleads.org

(216) 650-3312



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