Press Releases
December 16, 2025
Leadership Akron Welcomes Dr. Angela M. Brake as Program Facilitator
Leadership Akron is pleased to announce that Dr. Angela M. Brake, DPS/IDL, has joined the organization as Program Facilitator, effective December 16, 2025.
Brake brings a deep commitment to community-centered leadership and a strong background in learning design, organizational development, and program facilitation. Her career spans corporate, education, and nonprofit sectors, where she has designed and led experiences that connect people, strengthen organizations, and translate vision into meaningful action within organizations and communities..
Most recently, Brake has led and supported leadership initiatives with organizations including The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Akron Public Schools, Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio, and Limitless Ambition. Across these roles, she developed leadership and professional development programs, coordinated complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives, and fostered inclusive learning environments grounded in adult learning principles and real-world application.
Brake’s work is rooted in Greater Akron and extends well beyond her professional roles. She is actively engaged in board service and community leadership with organizations such as Zonta Club of Akron, Barberton, and Cuyahoga Falls, Women’s Endowment Fund, Hope and Healing Survivor Resource Center, Project Grad Akron, LITE, and the Goodyear Heights Community Development Council. Through this service, she contributes strategic insight, governance leadership, and a deep commitment to equity and community well-being.
In her role at Leadership Akron, Brake will manage the Insight Akron, NEXT, and Community Leadership Institute programs. She will curate and facilitate immersive experiences that connect leaders across sectors, deepen understanding of Greater Akron, and strengthen the relationships that fuel lifelong leadership and community impact.
“Angela brings a thoughtful blend of strategic leadership, facilitation expertise, and genuine care for people and place,” said Justin Hilton, President & CEO of Leadership Akron. “She understands that leadership is built through experience, relationship, and service to the community. Her approach aligns seamlessly with who we are and how we connect leaders to impact Greater Akron.”
Brake holds a Doctor of Professional Studies in Instructional Design Leadership from Franklin University, along with advanced degrees in business and human resource management. She is known for her collaborative leadership style, attention to detail, and ability to create spaces where people feel seen, connected, and empowered to lead.
About Leadership Akron
For more than 40 years, Leadership Akron has inspired, strengthened, and empowered leaders to create a greater Akron. Through immersive experiences and community connections, Leadership Akron serves as the only community platform experientially connecting leaders across sectors, backgrounds, and generations. With a network of more than 2,000 alumni, Leadership Akron continues to expand the experience of leadership, fostering relationships, building knowledge, and catalyzing impact for the future of Greater Akron.
