Join us on Thursday, October 9 at 6pm at High Line Car House for an evening to celebrate, reconnect, and inspire the Columbus Community!
Honorary Graduate: Janet Jackson
About Janet: Janet Jackson’s leadership has shaped Central Ohio for decades. A true trailblazer, she was the first African American and first woman elected Columbus City Attorney, the first African American female judge in Franklin County history, and the first woman and African American to lead United Way of Central Ohio. She also served as the inaugural chair of the Civilian Police Review Board and was a Leadership Columbus board member from 2004 to 2006. Janet’s legacy opens doors and inspires others to lead.
Hall of Fame Awardee: Lourdes Barroso de Padilla
About Lourdes: Lourdes Barroso de Padilla’s leadership has made a lasting impact on Central Ohio. As the first Latina elected to Columbus City Council, she founded the city’s first Latino Heritage Month Committee and the Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs. She serves as Board President of the Empowering Latinas Leadership Academy and holds key roles on several council committees. A proud alum of the Leadership Columbus Class of 2008, Lourdes continues to champion equity, access, and opportunity across the region.
Sponsorship opportunities available. Email Katebauer@leadershipcolumbus.org