Leadership Toledo Names Arika Michaelis Executive Director

Daily Dose  |  05/27/2026 10:00 am

Following a comprehensive search led by the organization’s Board of Directors, Leadership Toledo has named Arika Michaelis as its next Executive Director. Michaelis will officially begin serving in the role immediately.

Michaelis currently serves as Program Director at Leadership Toledo, where she has played a key role in expanding the organization’s programming, strengthening community partnerships and advancing strategic initiatives since joining the organization in 2022.

She brings prior executive leadership experience from her time as Executive Director of Toledo Streets Newspaper, where she led organizational operations, fundraising, board governance and community engagement efforts. "Arika brings a unique combination of strategic vision, operational leadership and authentic community connection to this role,” said John Pezzino, President of Leadership Toledo’s Board of Directors. “Her deep investment in Leadership Toledo, proven nonprofit leadership experience and strong relationships throughout the community make her exceptionally well-positioned to lead the organization into its next chapter.”

During her time at Leadership Toledo, Michaelis helped develop and launch Focus 419, an immersive leadership experience celebrating Toledo’s culture and community. Michaelis has contributed to the continued evolution of Leadership Toledo’s Signature Program, strengthening curriculum development, increasing alumni engagement and cultivating partnerships throughout the Toledo region.

Prior to joining Leadership Toledo, Michaelis served as Executive Director of Toledo Streets Newspaper, where she guided the organization through operational growth and increased community engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership included launching new organizational systems, expanding donor and community partnerships, and leading one of the organization’s most successful online fundraising campaigns.

“For fifty years, Leadership Toledo has played an important role in strengthening leaders and building meaningful connections throughout our region,” said Michaelis. “I’m honored to step into this role and excited to continue working alongside our staff, board, alumni and community partners to expand Leadership Toledo’s impact and create even more opportunities for meaningful civic engagement.”

Michaelis is a graduate of Leadership Toledo’s Signature Program and remains actively involved in the Toledo community through organizations including Rotary Club of Toledo, Metroparks Toledo’s Good Natured, and Young People for Animal Conservation at the Toledo Zoo. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communication, with minors in music and French, from Marshall University in 2018.

The appointment follows a leadership transition announced earlier this spring.

The Board of Directors worked closely with staff throughout the search process to ensure continuity and maintain organizational momentum.

“Leadership Toledo is in a strong position going forward,” said Pezzino. “We are confident in Arika’s leadership and excited about the energy, creativity and community-centered vision she brings to the role.”

Leadership Toledo’s mission is to develop, connect and inspire leaders who strengthen the Toledo region through civic engagement and community impact. Programs and partnerships already established will continue as Leadership Toledo enters its next chapter under Michaelis’ leadership.