Buckeye Reporter

The Ohio Business Roundtable (OBRT) recently held its 31st Annual Meeting in Cleveland at the Cleveland Clinic campus. The event brought together members, panel participants, and presenters for a comprehensive agenda.

An update on the Ohio Grants Alliance was provided during the meeting, with regional partners highlighting the initiative's importance and successes. Senator Sherrod Brown joined virtually to discuss how businesses can collaborate with the federal government to maintain the alliance's momentum.

Governor Mike DeWine attended to outline his administration's priorities, focusing on strengthening Ohio's education system following changes in the Department of Education and Workforce.

Jane Grote Abell, Donatos Chairwoman and Chief Purpose Officer, along with Matt Damschroder, Director of Jobs and Family Services, spoke about a new pilot program aimed at helping employees avoid the "benefits cliff." This issue prevents workers from accepting promotions due to potential loss of government assistance.

Mental health was emphasized as a priority for OBRT in 2023. A panel featuring Molly Kocour Boyle from AT&T, Dr. Steve Markovich from OhioHealth, and Mark Smucker from The J.M. Smucker Company discussed mental health impacts with moderator Lori Criss.

The event included a member and spouse dinner hosted by the Cleveland Foundation. Lillian Kuri, President and CEO of the foundation, provided an overview of their work. Remarks were also given by Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted and Dr. Tom Mihaljevic of Cleveland Clinic. An interview with Alan Shaw, President and CEO of Norfolk Southern, was featured as well.

OBRT expressed gratitude to all attendees for contributing to another successful annual meeting.