As Leadership Geauga prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary in February 2025, the organization proudly announces Alice Sems, Dr. Bob Faehnle, and Melanie Scanlon as the 2025 Emerald Leaders. This prestigious honor recognizes the profound impact these three former executive directors have had in shaping the success and growth of Leadership Geauga.
Over the last three decades, Leadership Geauga has become a cornerstone for leadership development, civic education, and community connection in Geauga County. Without the vision and dedication of Alice, Bob, and Melanie, Leadership Geauga wouldn’t be the transformative program it is today.
Alice Sems, a visionary leader, was appointed the inaugural Executive Director of Leadership Geauga in 1997. Drawing upon her nonprofit experience at United Way of Geauga County, she laid the foundation for an organization that would shape Geauga County for decades. Beyond her professional contributions, Alice’s dedication to the community was evident in her seven-year tenure on the Geauga Bicentennial Board of Managers, volunteer work at the Geauga County Public Library, Chardon Public Schools, Volunteer Ohio, and her church.
A true Renaissance woman, Alice was remarkably able to nurture and empower individuals and organizations. Her passion for community building led to creating lasting networks and projects that continue to benefit Geauga County. As we honor her legacy, we recognize her tireless efforts to foster a brighter future for all.
Beginning in 2004, Dr. Bob Faehnle brought a passion for education, mentorship, and fun to leadership training, offering a unique approach that
set Leadership Geauga apart. Over the years, Dr. Bob dedicated himself to developing community leaders, making the program both enriching and enjoyable for participants. Under his leadership, a Cleveland Foundation grant of $20,000 in 2008 funded the creation of the Youth Program, expanding Leadership Geauga’s opportunities for young leaders.
Beyond his role at Leadership Geauga, Dr. Bob’s dedication to community service was evident in his involvement with organizations such as Geauga United Way Services, Geauga YMCA, Next Step, Family First Council, WomenSafe, Kent State Geauga, Chardon Rotary, and University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center. He also served on various educational and community boards, including the Chardon Local School Board and as President of the Notre Dame Elementary School Board of Trustees.
In 2016, Melanie Scanlon began serving as the third Executive Director of Leadership Geauga. A key achievement during her tenure was securing crucial funding of $120,000 from the Cleveland Foundation to launch the Heritage Program for Retirees in 2020. This program continues to serve the needs of Geauga County’s vibrant retiree population population. Melanie also initiated the tradition of raising funds for the Emerald Leader’s chosen non-profit organization during the annual “Call to the Heart” at the Emerald Ball. This initiative has generated over $71,000 to support local non-profits.
Even after her time as Executive Director, Melanie remains deeply committed to Geauga County. She continues volunteering with various organizations, including the Chardon Rotary, Kent State Geauga, League of Women Voters of Geauga, Chardon Local Schools, Chardon Youth Sports, Junior Achievement, and CollegeNow.
As Leadership Geauga celebrates 30 years of service to the county, Alice Sems, Dr. Bob Faehnle, and Melanie Scanlon’s recognition as the 2025 Emerald Leaders reminds us of the transformative power of leadership and the enduring legacy of those who pave the way for future generations.
Leadership Geauga congratulates Alice, Dr. Bob, and Melanie on this well-deserved recognition as the 2025 Emerald Leaders and applauds their tireless efforts in making Geauga County a better place for all. The award will be formally presented at the upcoming Leadership Geauga Emerald Ball on Saturday, March 1, 2025, where their outstanding contributions to the community will be celebrated.
EMERALD BALL DETAILS – THE PUBLIC IS WELCOME
The public is invited to honor Alice, Dr. Bob, and Melanie by attending Leadership Geauga’s annual Emerald Ball, an evening of leadership recognition and philanthropy, on Saturday, March 1, 2025. For information on purchasing tickets, program advertising, event sponsorships, or donating a prize, call 440-286-8115 or visit the Leadership Geauga website at leadershipgeauga.org/emerald-ball. Tickets will go on sale in January 2025.