On Saturday, March 7, 2026, Leadership Geauga hosted its annual Emerald Ball, welcoming more than 390 guests for the largest Emerald Ball in the organization’s history. The evening brought together community leaders, alumni, businesses, and supporters to celebrate leadership and invest in the future of Geauga County.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of Ann Blair as the 2026 Emerald Leader. Leadership Geauga was honored to recognize Ann for her longstanding commitment to service, leadership, and community enhancement throughout Geauga County.
The Emerald Leader award is presented to individuals or organizations whose leadership has significantly enhanced the quality of life in the community. A graduate of Leadership Geauga’s Signature Adult Program Class of 2013, Ann is the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Rising in Burton and is widely known throughout the region for her dedication to volunteerism and community involvement.
Over the years, Ann has contributed her time and leadership to numerous organizations and events, including The Great Geauga County Fair, Metzenbaum Center, Special Olympics, Chardon Rotary, the Burton Chamber of Commerce, Maple Leaf Community Residences, Destination Geauga, and the Geauga Growth Partnership. She has also played a role in many community traditions and fundraising efforts that bring people together throughout the year.
Ann’s leadership extends beyond the local level. She is actively involved with the Lake and Geauga Area Association of Realtors and will serve as its president in 2026. She has also served on committees and boards with both the Ohio Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.
Through her volunteer service, leadership roles, and unwavering dedication to strengthening the community, Ann Blair truly exemplifies the spirit of the Emerald Leader award.
The evening’s success would not have been possible without the generous support of the community, including Title Sponsor Kinetico Water Systems, as well as many additional sponsors and supporters who helped make the event possible.
Leadership Geauga is a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing informed, committed leaders who will positively impact the future of Geauga County. The organization operates with just two full-time staff members, a 15-member Board of Trustees, and countless volunteers, and relies heavily on the support of individuals, businesses, organizations, and alumni.
While tuition helps support Leadership Geauga’s programs, it accounts for only 30% of the organization’s annual budget. Events like the Emerald Ball play a critical role in sustaining the organization’s mission and ensuring leadership development opportunities continue for future community leaders.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of attendees and sponsors, the 2026 Emerald Ball netted more than $125,000, helping fund Leadership Geauga’s programs for the coming year.
In addition, during the evening’s Call to the Heart, Ann Blair selected Maple Leaf Community Residences as the partial benefactor of the event. Through the generosity of those in attendance, Maple Leaf Community Residences will receive a $50,000 donation to support its work serving individuals with developmental disabilities in the community.
The 2026 Emerald Ball was not only a celebration of leadership but also a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together to support the organizations and people who make Geauga County such a special place to live, work, and serve.