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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – For Jeff Ryznar, owner of 898 Marketing in Canfield, Leadership Mahoning Valley was much more than a networking opportunity. It became a deeper introduction to the people, organizations and communities that make up the Mahoning Valley and reinforced a desire to give back to the region that shaped him.
When he applied to the program, Ryznar expected to meet fellow business leaders and expand his professional network. Instead, he found an immersive experience that offered a broader understanding of the Valley’s civic, business, health care and social landscape.
“Leadership Mahoning Valley offered the opportunity to see all of the great businesses and leaders in the Valley as well as a clearer understanding of how my involvement can move the Valley forward,” he said.
One of the experiences that left the greatest impression was visiting Akron Children’s Hospital. Seeing the level of care available close to home was both emotional and inspiring, he said. Equally valuable were the relationships he developed with classmates, many of whom have become lasting professional and personal connections.
“The people in my class have been the greatest testament to the course and what it offers and is meant to do — to bring leaders of the Valley together to make a difference,” Ryznar said.
The program also exposed him to the economic realities many residents face while highlighting the organizations working every day to improve lives throughout the region.
“We learned about the economic struggles our Valley faces on an individual level,” he said. “However, the number of programs and ways the Valley cares for its own is incredible.”
That perspective changed the way he views his role as both a business owner and community leader.
“It made me want to do more, to be more and to give more back to the community that made me who I am today,” Ryznar said. “I was raised here and now, as a business owner, it has afforded me an opportunity to make a difference with my skills and talents.”
Leadership Mahoning Valley also encouraged him to step outside familiar surroundings. Exploring communities throughout Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties gave him a more complete understanding of the region and reinforced an important leadership lesson.
“So often, we stay in our ‘bubble’ that is comfortable,” he said. “This program showed me that being a leader is not being comfortable — it is about stepping outside your comfort zone to do what is right.”
The experience also inspired greater civic involvement. Since graduating, Ryznar has expanded his community service through Akron Children’s Hospital leadership and marketing boards, worked with local leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic to support residents, and now serves on the Regional Chamber board.
He believes Leadership Mahoning Valley plays an important role in preparing the region’s future leaders by bringing people together in meaningful ways.
“It identifies the next generation of leaders in the area that will continue to lead with the same passion, drive, morals and pride that this area was founded upon,” he said. “Technology divides us more than it unites us. LMV allows people to come together and do something that can never be replaced with a device — interact with personal contact and immediate feedback.”
For those considering the program, his advice is simple.
“If you are considering it, then you are already perfect for it,” Ryznar said. “This class really isn’t about any one person. It is about the greater good of the Mahoning Valley that we are called to serve and grow.”
Looking ahead, Ryznar hopes Leadership Mahoning Valley continues expanding its impact by encouraging each class to leave a lasting mark on the community through collaborative projects and by keeping alumni actively engaged long after graduation.
“Have LMV be an annual presence in the community and not just the class,” he said. “Bring alumni back to speak, reconnect and continue making a difference together.”
