2024 Business Hall of Fame Inductees & Community Leaders of the Year

The Business Hall of Fame inductions began in 1996 as a bicentennial initiative in partnership with the city of Cleveland, aimed at celebrating the achievements of those who have shaped our city. Since then, we have continued to honor the legacies of these remarkable leaders. Our inductees exemplify career success and have made significant contributions as titans in their respective fields, building and supporting our communities along the way.

Equally important, the health of our region relies on the leaders of nonprofit organizations, community programs and ambitious initiatives. These are the perfect complement to our corporate citizens. The Community Leader of the Year Awards recognize those who have made a meaningful impact in areas such as arts, education, public service, diversity and inclusion, the environment and nonprofit organizations or foundations.

This year, we proudly celebrate leaders who have made a difference by making bold decisions, building communities and leading by example.

Business Hall of Fame Inductees

Lee Friedman
College Now

As CEO of College Now, Lee Friedman was a driving force for accessible education for Cleveland’s students. Read more here.

Steve Potash
OverDrive 

OverDrive president and CEO Steve Potash’s force behind the digital world runs deep. Read more here.

Marc Stefanski
Third Federal Bank

Third Federal Savings and Loan president and CEO Marc A. Stefanski leads in a way that includes everyone in the company’s success. Read more here.

Community Leaders of the Year

Margot Copeland
Key Bank Foundation

Margot Copeland has spent the last four decades improving the world around her — a mission that didn’t end with her retirement. Read more here.

Ed & Megan McNamara
Prayers From Maria

Though cancer was killing her, the little girl thought only of others — a legacy honored by her parents through Prayers From Maria and its sunflower fields. Read more here.

Peggy Zone Fisher
LeadDIVERSITY

Peggy Zone Fisher reflects on her record of putting human rights first. Read more here.