Release Date: February 2,2026
Dr. Para Jones Selected as First Recipient of The Greater Akron Chamber Chairman’s Award for Community Leadership
February 2, 2026, Akron, OH – The Greater Akron Chamber has announced that Dr. Para M. Jones, President of Stark State College, has been selected as the first-ever recipient of the Greater Akron Chamber Chairman’s Award for Community Leadership.
Dr. Jones will be honored at the Greater Akron Chamber’s Annual Meeting on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the John S. Knight Center. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at greaterakronchamber.org.
The Chairman’s Award for Community Leadership has been established to recognize leaders in the public, civic, and philanthropic sectors who are in the background driving the transformative initiatives that strengthen the vitality, vibrancy, and competitiveness of the Greater Akron region. The award celebrates their collaborative leadership and lasting impact—recognizing those who are uniquely excelling to turn vision into action through partnership and innovation.
Dr. Jones exemplifies the spirit and intent of the award through her steadfast commitment to workforce development, regional collaboration, and economic opportunity. As president of Stark State College, she has been a fierce advocate for aligning education and training with the evolving needs of employers—strengthening the talent pipeline and positioning the region for long-term success.
“Para’s leadership reflects the power of collaboration to drive real, measurable impact,” said Julie Brandle, Board Chair of the Greater Akron Chamber and President of Metis Construction Services. “She consistently brings partners together around shared goals and challenges us to think bigger about how we prepare people for opportunity. Her work is strengthening our workforce today while building a more competitive and vibrant region for the future.”
Under Dr. Jones’ leadership, Stark State has expanded partnerships with employers, educational institutions, and community organizations—helping workers gain relevant skills, adapt to a changing economy, and access pathways to meaningful careers. Her approach recognizes that economic development begins with people and that a strong workforce is foundational to regional growth.
“Para has worked at the local, state and federal level to turn the talent needs of industry into actionable programs with outcomes that matter for the companies and people that live here,” said Steve Millard, President and CEO of the Greater Akron Chamber. “Para has been a catalyst for action—connecting education, workforce, and industry in ways that matter to our success. Her leadership sets a standard for what this award represents.”
Dr. Jones’ work reflects a deep commitment to the public good and a belief that collaboration across sectors is essential to solving complex regional challenges. Through innovation, partnership, and execution, she has helped advance initiatives that improve economic outcomes for employers, workers, and communities alike.
“I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Greater Akron Chamber,” said Dr. Jones. “This award recognizes Stark State's critical mission of providing students with quality, affordable education that leads to rewarding employment, right here in our community. We are fortunate to work with strong partners, including employers and community organizations like the Greater Akron Chamber, who share our commitment to helping individuals, businesses and communities build stronger futures.”
As the inaugural recipient of the Chairman’s Award for Community Leadership, Dr. Jones sets a powerful precedent for recognizing leaders whose dedication, vision, and results leave a lasting impact on the Greater Akron region.
For more information on the Greater Akron Chamber and its Annual Meeting, visit greaterakronchamber.org.
The Greater Akron Chamber is a business membership organization serving Summit, Medina, and Portage counties. The Greater Akron Chamber drives economic growth and prosperity for the region by supporting the success of the business community and acting as a convener of stakeholders on key issues facing Greater Akron.