On June 30, 2025, Akron was named one of the 2025 All-America City Award winners, as highlighted in the Akron Beacon Journal. This national recognition celebrates communities that demonstrate innovation, inclusiveness, and impactful civic engagement — and Akron rose to the occasion with pride and purpose.

The Akron Urban League was honored to be part of the delegation that traveled to Denver, Colorado to represent our city. Our presence emphasized the critical role of education and workforce development in building a stronger Akron. Among those representing the League was Larry Chadwick, Vice President of Workforce Development, Education, Marketing & IT, who helped lead conversations on equity and opportunity. Also attending was Lauren Marsh, Assistant to the Chief of Staff for the City of Akron and President of the Akron Urban League Young Professionals, who brought additional recognition as one of the Greater Akron Chamber’s 2025 “30 for the Future” Award recipients. Joining them was Jolene A. Lane, Board Chair of the Akron Urban League, whose leadership continues to shape the League’s growing impact locally and nationally.

Also representing the Akron Urban League was Preston J. Clark, Marketing and Communications Manager and owner of 7th Floor Clothing, who designed and produced custom “Akron” script T-shirts that were worn by the delegation to kick off the All-America City competition — a creative expression of civic pride and unity through local Black-owned business.

This national recognition is not just a celebration of a city — it’s a celebration of the people and organizations driving it forward. The Akron Urban League is proud to stand at the intersection of education, innovation, and community.