About

Our Advisory Committee

Bill Considine

Former CEO, Akron Children’s Hospital
Bill Considine served more than 40 years as President and CEO of Akron Children’s Hospital, transforming it into one of the nation’s leading pediatric health systems. A passionate advocate for children, families, and community partnerships, he continues to champion leadership development, ethics in governance, and civic collaboration across the region. His perspective anchors Life on the Summit in long-term community well-being and intergenerational impact.

Lou Berroteran

Executive Director, Mayors Association of Portage, Stark, and Summit Counties
A respected civic leader, Lou Berroteran oversees coordination among regional mayors and county executives to drive shared investment in economic and community development. His oversight of municipal partnerships and fiscal governance ensures Life on the Summit aligns with public accountability and regional collaboration goals.

Doug Kohl

Former CEO, Akron Area YMCA
Doug Kohl brings decades of leadership in youth development, community wellness, and nonprofit management. Under his leadership, the YMCA expanded its outreach and programming throughout Northeast Ohio. He provides guidance on civic partnerships, family engagement, and the human-development aspects of Life on the Summit’s mission.

Bill Manby

Founder and Managing Partner, Interstate Fusion Ventures

An accomplished entrepreneur and regional advocate, Bill Manby has led transformative philanthropic and economic impact projects his entire career. Through Interstate Fusion Ventures, he connects investment, innovation, and collaboration between the region and the coasts helping attract businesses and young professionals to Summit County.

Chris Niekamp

Partner, BDB Law Firm
Chris Niekamp is a senior partner at Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs (BDB Law) providing legal guidance in business governance, nonprofit compliance, and regional economic initiatives. His counsel will support Life on the Summit’s structural and legal framework, ensuring transparency and organizational sustainability.

Tony Troppe

Developer and Cultural Entrepreneur
A creative force in Akron’s arts and music scene, Tony Troppe is known for revitalizing the city’s historic properties and cultural venues, including the Blue-Tique Hotel and BLU Jazz+ restaurant, nightclub and entertainment complex. His visionary leadership in arts-based community development brings energy and authenticity to the storytelling at the heart of Life on the Summit.

Don Plusquellic

Former Mayor of Akron
As one of Akron’s most influential civic leaders, Don Plusquellic served as mayor for nearly three decades, spearheading downtown revitalization, infrastructure modernization, and public–private partnerships. His continued mentorship and insight inform Life on the Summit’s mission to attract people and investment to the region.

Tommy Bruno

General Manager, The Summit FM
Tommy Bruno leads one of Northeast Ohio’s most respected nonprofit radio networks, The Summit FM, championing local music, arts, and civic storytelling. His expertise in community engagement, media strategy, and nonprofit leadership helps Life on the Summit amplify its message through authentic, community-driven communication.

Rick Krochka

Former CEO, The Krochka Group
Rick Krochka is a veteran advertising and marketing executive with extensive experience in national campaigns and regional brand development. His background in strategic communications and storytelling enhances Life on the Summit’s positioning as both a civic movement and a marketing catalyst for the region.

Julie Hunt

501(c)(3) Advisor and Nonprofit Consultant
Julie Hunt advises charitable organizations and foundations on structure, fundraising, and impact strategy. Her deep knowledge of nonprofit governance and grant alignment ensures Life on the Summit operates with transparency and fulfills the philanthropic criteria valued by institutions such as the GAR Foundation.

Andrew Lamb

Principal, W3 Accounting and Advisory
Andrew Lamb leads W3 Accounting, providing financial oversight and strategic planning for regional nonprofits. His firm provides accounting management and reporting for Life on the Summit, ensuring fiscal responsibility, audit readiness, and data-driven impact reporting.

Tom Waltermire

Former Director, Team NEO; Trustee, University of Akron
A seasoned economic development executive, Tom Watermire has been instrumental in fostering collaboration between higher education and the business community. His leadership at Team NEO and service as a University of Akron trustee connect Life on the Summit to workforce development, investment strategy, and academic partnerships.

Mary Jo Kormushoff

Summit County Real Estate Expert

Mary Jo is a licensed Realtor based in Northeast Ohio, known for her passion for community, connection, and helping others find their perfect place to call home. With a background in marketing and a genuine love for the region, Mary Jo combines local expertise with a people-first approach to real estate. She’s deeply involved in community events and enjoys using her platform to highlight the best of living in Northeast Ohio.