Press Releases
March 2, 2026
Leadership Akron Welcomes Matthew Wilson as Development Director
Leadership Akron is proud to announce that Matthew Wilson has been hired as Development Director, effective March 9, 2026.
Matthew brings more than twenty-five years of executive and entrepreneurial experience across business, finance, sports and entertainment. Throughout his career, he has led strategic planning initiatives, built enduring partnerships, guided revenue growth, and strengthened organizations through thoughtful leadership and relationship-centered strategy.
In his role as Development Director, Matthew will lead Leadership Akron’s development efforts by cultivating meaningful partnerships, strengthening community investment, and stewarding the generosity that fuels Leadership Akron’s work as the only community platform experientially connecting Greater Akron leaders.
Leadership Akron President and CEO Justin Hilton shared, “I am grateful to welcome Matthew to Leadership Akron. He understands that meaningful relationships are the foundation of lasting community impact. His experience, integrity, and commitment to Greater Akron position him to cultivate the generosity and partnerships that sustain our work. I look forward to the leadership he will bring as we continue investing in leaders who serve Greater Akron.”
Born and raised in Canton, Ohio, Matthew now resides in Akron. He is a two-time MAC alumnus of both Bowling Green State University and Kent State University and is an alumnus of Leadership Akron’s Community Leadership Institute 2024 Class.
His commitment to community service spans more than fifteen years, including leadership roles with Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial, the Men of Canton Foundation, the HALO Foundation in Akron, the Cleveland Association of Broadcasters, Port Summit Rotary, and the Knights of Columbus Council #15312 at the Newman Center Parish at Kent State University.
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.
