In the Arena: Conversations of a Lifetime

At a very young age, Susan knew that she wanted to be an educator. After beginning her career as a high school teacher, she transitioned to the Toledo Museum of Art where she has served in the roles of docent, president of the docent program, director of development, and board trustee. For decades she has been actively involved in community service organizations and charitable initiatives. Education and the arts have been the focus...

For over 16 years, Christina has been leading a life-giving organization that helps low-income single moms pursue their educational goals and break the cycle of poverty. Her own harrowing experiences as a child growing up on the west side of Chicago propel her to provide opportunities and hope to young moms and their children traveling a tough road. She is also a beacon of light in the areas of human rights, education, and social j...

Drawing upon his journalism background, love of athletics, and ability to connect with people, Eamonn guides the narrative for the Detroit Lions. He oversees a constant flurry of media activity involving local/national news organizations, reporters, players, coaches, and front office personnel. In 2023 Eamonn and the Detroit Lions Communications team received the prestigious Pete Rozelle Award for excellence in public relations. He...

For over 30 years Levi has held corporate leadership roles and been a strong supporter of numerous charitable organizations and worthy causes throughout the Metro Detroit area. As Vice President and Community Impact Officer for Systems Technology Group (headquartered in Troy, Michigan), Levi leads the company’s sales, new business, and diversity efforts. He also serves on numerous boards including the Motown Museum, Teen Street Ski...

Amy Chang, who grew up in Taiwan and came to the United States as a high school exchange student, began playing the cello when she was 10 years old. She honed her musical skills at the Taiwan Academy of Arts, Music Institute of Chicago, and Eastman School of Music. Throughout her highly accomplished career as a cellist, Amy has used the platform of music to move people’s emotions and provide a sense of uplift. She believes that a f...

Entrepreneur Logan Sander joined like-minded young professionals to establish and run a vibrant nonprofit media thinkhub that highlights the unique qualities, opportunities, and challenges associated with the Midwest region. She has merged a love of multimedia storytelling, research, education, and community service to provide a meaningful contribution to the Midwest narrative. 

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/P...

Based in the Tuscan hillside town of Cortona, Italy, Marco Molesini owns and operates the internationally renowned Molesini Wine Shop. His vast knowledge of wine, deep connections with Italian winemakers, frequent wine tasting events in the United States, and a robust wine club membership make Marco one of the most respected and sought-after experts in the wine industry. His passion for what he does is captured in a phrase he often...

Bill’s Boston area roots, hockey playing days, being up close to the devastating impact of the 9-11 attack, guidance from strong mentors, and a supportive, best friend spouse shaped his career path and leadership approach. His core belief: ordinary people can do extraordinary things. 

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; Tim McCarthy, Graphic Designers: Step...

In his youth, Dan Creps wanted to be a disc jockey at an alternative rock station. Working with disadvantaged youth in a recreation program changed his career trajectory and pointed him in the direction of education. In every school position he has held, making a connection with students, staff, and community members has been a point of emphasis. When the Rossford Schools superintendent’s position opened-up in 2013, a school distri...

Tim Selgo had an iconic two-decade run as the director of athletics at Grand Valley State University. The highly professional way that he led and fostered greatness in others is considered by many to be the gold standard for collegiate athletics. He now draws upon his 40 years in collegiate sports to help college athletic directors and senior administration build vibrant programs. Tim’s stories and insights about investing in peopl...

Driven by the desire to do something meaningful for others, Dianne leads a team of dedicated professionals and volunteers as they provide therapeutic services to people going thru a cancer journey. Her enthusiasm, empathy, and compassion provide a foundation of hope for participants and their families. Based on her experience, the best way to help friends, neighbors, and colleagues battling cancer is to show up and be there for the...

A goal-oriented and fast-paced individual that had her life upended by a significant health challenge. Mary has combined a new outlook, resilience, and a longstanding desire to serve others to propel her philanthropic work. An inspiring professional who uses her talents and platforms to help organizations be successful. 

Host/Executive Producer; Brad Rieger, Audio Engineer/Production Coordinator; Kerry Schwable, Social Coordinator; ...

Tom is a high-impact entrepreneur that founded and captained Plastics Technology, Inc and six other related business ventures. He has published three books, holds six U.S. patents, and for several years served as the Interim Dean of a College of Education. Tom’s definition of success… defining meaningful and challenging goals for yourself and doing the work necessary to achieve those goals. Helping others reach their potential is a...

At a young age, Dr. Somerville was encouraged and challenged by her parents and educators to set lofty goals. She coupled that life advice with a strong work ethic to establish a career path focused on serving others and making an impact. An early defining experience that sparked an interest in leadership; she served as a residence advisor/supervisor of a college dormitory when she was an undergraduate student. As president, Dr, So...

After several years working in the banking industry in NYC, Joe pivoted to the business-side of sports. Early on he had management roles with the Canton-Akron Indians, Toledo Mud Hens, Chicago Bulls, and Detroit Tigers. In 1998 he returned to the Toledo Mud Hens as VP and General Manager and was instrumental in elevating minor league sports in the Toledo region and nationally. He was the force behind Fifth Third Field being built i...

Danielle leads a dedicated WBCA team that is focused on supporting/promoting women’s basketball coaches/players and growing women’s basketball across the country. She oversees WBCA’s programs and services, budget, marketing, and personnel. Danielle works closely with the NCAA, USA Basketball, WNBA, Women’s Basketball HOF, and Women’s Sports Foundation. 

Her path of success started early. A four-sport athlete at a suburban Atlanta h...

His down-to-earth upbringing in Sioux Center, Iowa provided a foundation for Randy’s 40-year career in healthcare and personal life. At the age of 28, a defining conversation with his boss served as the catalyst for a series of decisions that paved the way to professional opportunities and incremental leadership roles. For the last 13 years of his career, Randy led the largest healthcare system and the biggest employer in Northwest...

While combating a blazing house fire early in her career, the second story floor supporting Allision Armstrong collapsed to the first floor engulfing her in flames. Other firefighters rushed-in and pulled her from the house. She suffered severe burns and a back injury. This near-death experience was a defining moment that strengthened her resolve to help others, serve the public good, and be the best firefighter she could be. After...

Growing-up in Eastabuchie, Mississippi, Janet Eaton-Smith was always on the go. The performing arts, theatre productions, church choir, and athletics filled her days of youth. As the starting point guard, she led her high school team to a 37-0 record and state championship. She took what she learned during these formative years and paved an impressive path in athletic administration. Her ability to connect with people, resilient mi...