When you think of a leader, what comes to mind? The loudest voice in the room? The person with the most recognizable title? Or could leadership look like everyday people choosing to step forward, serve others, and invest in their community?
In Akron, that spirit of leadership is nurtured through Torchbearers, an organization dedicated to developing emerging leaders who are committed to strengthening the region through civic engagement, volunteerism, and professional growth. Torchbearers connects young professionals to meaningful service opportunities while building a diverse pipeline of leaders invested in Akron’s future.
Recently, three Torchbearers members stepped into new executive leadership roles across the community. Their achievements will be recognized during the New Executive Leader Reception, hosted by Leadership Akron, a separate organization that develops and convenes established and rising leaders across Greater Akron. While Leadership Akron celebrates these Torchbearers’ professional advancement, their journeys reflect the lasting impact of our mission to cultivate and connect community-focused leaders.
Each of these leaders built connections and gained early leadership experience through Torchbearers before advancing into executive roles that now influence organizations and initiatives across Akron.
Meet three of the Torchbearers carrying our mission forward:
Chip Clupper (He/Him/His)
Director of Human Resources, County of Summit – County Executive Ilene Shapiro’s Office
TB Class of 2014
Q: How do you hope to use your new leadership role to make a lasting difference in the Akron community?
A: I see this leadership role as a continuation of the commitment I made to the Greater Akron area years ago. When I became a Torchbearer in 2014, the leadership development I received didn’t just teach me skills; it helped me find my voice as an advocate. Since then, I’ve carried that responsibility with me in every role I’ve held, always looking for ways to give back to the place that shaped me. In this new role, I hope to lead by listening, continue to build authentic relationships, and open doors for others, especially emerging leaders who care about public service. My goal is to help create opportunities that outlast my tenure and contribute to a stronger, more connected community for years to come.
Alexis King (She/Her/Hers)
President, Torchbearers
TB Class of 2022
Q: What lessons from your Torchbearers experience continue to influence your leadership approach?
A: Torchbearers has been a core part of my life for the last several years, and there is so much from my experience that I carry with me in both my leadership approach and my personal life. My experience in Torchbearers has made Akron feel like home to me, and that’s mainly due to the fact that I’ve made genuine friendships during my time here. This translates into my leadership approach as I work to foster relationships with everyone on whatever team I’m on. I’m a deep believer in the fact that we work better together when we actually know and care about one another. I know that I can reach out to anyone who is currently or previously a Torchbearer, and they’ll at least take the time to hear me out; 9 times out of 10, they’ll lend a hand however they can.
Dominique Waters (He/Him/His)
Founder and Executive Director, Akron Sneaker Academy
TB Class of 2024
Q: What does being a Torchbearer mean to you as you step into this new leadership role?
A: Being a Torchbearer means representing a vast network of servant-leaders within my community. Torchbearers provided me with the opportunity to delve deeper into my unique leadership style and embrace my individuality—a significant breakthrough. Additionally, it ensures that I remain aligned with my mission to enhance the community of Akron through service, collaboration, and excellence.
As these leaders take on new executive roles, they carry forward the Torchbearers’ mission, while contributing to the broader leadership ecosystem supported by organizations like Leadership Akron. Their advancement reflects the impact of leaders who remain committed to service, collaboration, and community investment.
Torchbearers continues to provide opportunities for emerging leaders to grow, connect, and serve throughout Greater Akron. To learn more about Torchbearers, upcoming events, or ways to get involved, visit the Torchbearers website.