2 2 5 ANNUAL REPORT
A Message From the Executive Director
Turning Vision into Action
As I reflect on 2025, my second full year as Executive Director of The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation, I am filled with optimism about the future of public education in Ohio and the role our Foundation can play in helping shape it.
This year marked a significant milestone with the adoption of our new five-year strategic plan, Visioning Forward. More than a roadmap, it is a commitment to building on our legacy while responding to the opportunities and challenges facing public education today.
At the center of the plan is a framework focused on three priorities: advancing teachers, advancing students and advancing public education. These priorities are deeply connected. When educators are supported and empowered, students thrive. Strong student outcomes strengthen public education and expand opportunities for communities across Ohio.
Public education continues to evolve amid rapid technological change, workforce demands, policy shifts and funding challenges.
To help education leaders navigate this environment, the Foundation launched its Major Speakers Initiative in 2025. We were honored to welcome Attorney Derek Black, a nationally recognized scholar in education law and policy, who provided valuable insights into federal executive orders and their potential impact on schools and educational funding.
Throughout my career as a teacher, principal and superintendent, I witnessed the extraordinary impact of great teaching. Today, philanthropy offers a unique opportunity to invest in ideas, innovation and leadership that can strengthen learning far beyond any single classroom or district.
The Foundation’s future is bright because it is grounded in a clear vision and strengthened by partnerships with educators, school leaders, policymakers and community stakeholders who share a belief in the power of public education.
On behalf of our Board of Directors and staff, thank you for your partnership and trust. We invite you to continue this journey with us as we Vision Forward, building stronger teachers, stronger students and stronger public schools for generations to come.
Dr. Renée T. Willis Executive Director
A Message From the Board President From Legacy to Impact: Our Journey Forward
In 2024, we launched Visioning Forward, a three-phase process designed to reflect on our past, assess our present and intentionally chart our future.
The first phase focused on our history, revisiting the vision of Martha Holden Jennings and the leadership of Arthur S. Holden, Jr. This work reaffirmed that the Foundation has consistently adapted to support public education in Ohio and has often led the way.
In 2025, we focused on setting the groundwork for the future. This phase involved establishing key processes and programs, developing core materials, exploring options for the endowment and engaging stakeholders. Through this
work, we clarified our strengths, identified opportunities for growth, and strengthened our ability to support educators and students.
The result was an updated vision that remained true to the Foundation’s original purpose while responding to the realities of today. Our continued commitment to funding public education in Ohio reflected our belief in its power to create lasting change.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela
We are grateful to those who have supported us along the way and extend a warm welcome to those who are just joining us. It is an honor to continue serving Ohio’s public schools.
Anne Juster Board Chair | President
Grantmaking
The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation offers two grant programs to support educators and organizations dedicated to enhancing public education in Ohio. All grants support the Foundation’s mission to advance student learning, strengthen the teaching profession and enhance public education in Ohio.
Open Grants
Open Grants are designed for public school districts and nonprofit organizations collaborating with public schools in Ohio. These grants aim to fund projects that have a lasting impact on student learning and teaching. Typical grant amounts are around $15,000, with a range from $4,000
Grants-to-Educators
Grants-to-Educators support PK-12 public school teachers and administrators in Ohio. These grants encourage educators to implement innovative, smaller-scale projects within their classrooms, schools or districts. The maximum grant
2025 Grantmaking
Open Grants
100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland Inc.
100 Black Men Cleveland - Saturday Academy
$15,000
Ada Exempted Village Schools
Stronger Together
$15,000
America SCORES Cleveland
SCORES Literacy, Fitness & Youth Development
$15,000
Art of Me Productions
Youth Stories of Hope Program
$15,000
Art Possible Ohio
Adaptation, Integration, and the Arts
$10,000
Arts Commission of Greater Toledo Inc.
Young Artists at Work (YAAW)
$18,000
Arts Impact Incorporated
Social And Emotional Learning And The Arts
$15,000
ASM Materials Education Foundation
ASM Materials Camp-Teachers Semiconductor
$20,000
Athens Meigs Educational Service Center
Project RISE Internship Initiative
$20,000
Aurora City Schools
Maximizing GPS (Gifted Potential of Students)
$18,784
Ballet Metropolitan Inc.
BalletMet Dance-in-Schools 2025-26
$10,000
to $55,000, and are awarded for one year. Applicants may reapply for continued funding based on the outcomes of their final evaluation reports. The Foundation reviews Open Grant applications multiple times a year, with specific deadlines and funding dates outlined on our website.
amount is $3,000, and funds must be utilized within one year. Applications are reviewed multiple times annually, with deadlines and funding dates provided on the Foundation’s website.
Boys Hope Girls Hope of Northeastern Ohio
BHGH Academy Program
$15,000
Breakthrough Cincinnati Inc. 2026 Summer Scholars Program
$10,000
Building Bridges to Careers Inc.
Helping Teachers Be Bridges
$15,000
Canton Symphony Orchestra Association
Kinder Concert: Cloudy with a Chance of Music
$5,000
Case Western Reserve University
thinkSTEM Day Camp at CWRU
$15,000
Center for Arts-Inspired Learning
ArtWorks Summer 2025
$15,000
Children’s Defense Fund
Student Wellness & Whole Child Education
$31,000
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
PROJECT38: 2025-2026 School Year
$10,000
City Club of Cleveland
City Club Educational Engagement
$25,500
CityMusic Cleveland
CityMusic’s 2025-26 Education Programs
$15,000
Cleveland Botanical Garden
Sprouting Young Scientists
$14,530
Cleveland Christian Home
Addressing Student Learning Gaps
$15,000
Cleveland Classical Guitar Society
CCGS Education Program in CMSD
$10,000
Cleveland Clinic Foundation
Middle School Health Careers Program
$20,000
Cleveland Council on World Affairs
2025-2026 Model United Nations Program
$15,000
Cleveland Institute of Music
2025-26 CIM Teaching Artist Program
$15,000
Grant in Action
Dr. Tabatha Stover of IDC Preschool in Hilliard City Schools is helping young learners discover how math can shape stronger, safer communities through her MHJF-funded project, Dream It, Build It: Our Community. Preschool students used geometry and problem-solving skills to design safer, more accessible spaces while exploring creativity, collaboration and real-world learning. The project highlights how even the youngest learners can think critically and apply their learning in meaningful ways beyond the classroom.
2025 Grantmaking Summary
$3 million
2025 Grantees Located in 31 Counties Across Ohio
Cleveland International Film Festival Inc.
Boosting Language and Literary Analysis
$23,000
Cleveland Museum of Art CMA Teacher and School Programs
$50,000
Cleveland Museum of Natural History 2025-2026 CLE4SCI Inspire Program with CMSD
$15,000
Cleveland Play House CARE in 15 CMSD Schools
$30,000
Cleveland Public Theatre Inc.
Student Theatre Enrichment Program (STEP)
$15,000
Cleveland School of the Arts Board of Trustees CSA Festival of New Works 2025-26
$10,000
Cleveland State University Foundation Podcasting for Excellent Teaching
$29,995
College of Wooster
B-WISER Science Camp for Teen Girls
$12,000
Columbus Council on World Affairs
Career-Ready Global Scholars
$35,000
Columbus Symphony Orchestra Inc.
Columbus All City Orchestra
$10,000
Community Food Initiatives
Growing Strong Roots: CFI Garden Education
$15,000
Community Food Initiatives
Deepening the Roots: CFI Garden Education
$10,000
Students and Teachers Impacted in all 88 Ohio
Counties
Contemporary Theatre of Ohio In-School Residency Program
$15,000
Cuyahoga Community College Foundation The Orchestra Program (TOP) FY26
$15,000
Cuyahoga County Public Library K-3rd Grade-level Reading Support
$10,000
Drink Local Drink Tap Inc. Wavemaker Program (PreK-12th Grade Expansion)
$30,000
East Cleveland City Schools If I Can You Can
$29,843
East Cleveland Neighborhood Center Inc. Summer STEAM Module and Engaged Learning
$17,727
Educational Service Center of Central Ohio
OSU Student Leadership Research Collaborative
$15,000
Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio
Part 2: Social Emotional Strategies
$9,873
Educational Service Center of Lorain County Empower AI 2.0: Elevating Practice
$15,000
Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio 2025-2026 Ohio 8 Instructional Focus Series
$15,000
Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio 25-26 First Ring Student Leadership Institute
$15,000
Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio
Side-by-Side Literacy Network K-Kit Pilot
$20,000
Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve Three Key Tutoring Programs
$20,000
Effective Leadership Academy 8th Grade Career Pathways Program
$10,000
Erase the Space Youth Advocacy Collaborative – STREEM
$19,000
Esperanza, Inc. Pathways for Youth Success
$15,000
Facing History and Ourselves Inc.
Northeast Ohio Partner Schools Network
$20,000
Fairfield County Educational Service Center Elevate Voices, Transform Classrooms
$17,500
Footpath Foundation Discover Your Path
$15,000
Girl Scouts of North East Ohio The Girl Scout Journey in CMSD Schools
$10,000
Great Lakes Museum of Science, Environment, and Technology
GLSC’s Robotics Initiative
$20,000
Great Lakes Theater Festival Inc. School Residencies 2025-26
$15,000
Greater Cincinnati Arts & Education Center
Primary Instrumental Music Program
$10,000
Greater Cleveland NSBE Jr.
STEM – Engineering Exposure – GC NSBE Jr
$15,000
Greater Cleveland Urban Film Foundation
Amplifying Youth Voices Programming 2025
$15,000
Greater Than Math Inc.
The Math Movement’s 2025 Summer Camp
$15,000
Hope Meadows Foundation
Equine Assisted SEL
$20,622
Ideastream
FY25 NewsDepth
$25,000
Ideastream FY26 NewsDepth
$15,000
Indian Hill Exempted Village Schools
Educator Leadership Academy
$20,800
iSPACE Inc.
iSPACE STEM Educator Academy (iSEA)
$15,000
Jackson-Milton Local Schools
Pages for Positivity: Lit & Behavior Grant
$8,905
Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio Semester Financial Literacy Course
$15,000
Kids Voting Ohio
Kids Voting Ohio
$15,000
Lake Erie Ink – A Writing Space for Youth Joyful Literacy In-School Writing Residencies
$9,896
Leadership Lake County Inc.
Youth Leadership Development 2025-26
$15,000
Jennings Association Membership Fund
$17,866.67
Allows the Foundation to become a member of associations that share similar goals
Jennings Awards of Excellence
$66,859.89
Various awards for exceptional educators across the state of Ohio
Jennings Educators Summit
$55,016.54
Annual retreat for educational leaders
Learning About Business Inc.
LAB Week 2025
$12,000
Learning About Business Inc.
LAB Week 2026
$12,000
Lesbian Gay Bisexual & Transgender
Community Center of Greater Cleveland LGBTQ+ School-Based Programming
$15,000
Licking Heights Local Schools
Innovate to Empower
$15,000
Licking Heights Local Schools
Invent the Future
$12,000
Licking Regional Educational Service Center
Students Lead the Way
$40,000
Literacy Cooperative of Greater Cleveland
Professional Excellence Series
$50,000
Lorain Historical Society
Lorain Early Learning Initiative
$15,000
Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage
Stop the Hate: Youth Sing Out
$15,000
MetroHealth Foundation Inc.
The MetroHealth SAFE Project
$10,000
Miami County Educational Service Center
Literacy for ALL 25-26
$15,000
Miami University
Early Career Teacher Communities of Practice
$20,000
Middletown City Schools
Morphing Into Readers (Phase 2)
$15,000
Minds Matter
Summer College Immersion Programs
$25,000
Montessori Development Partnerships
Strengthening Public Montessori
$20,000
Muse Machine Inc.
Summer Institute and Extended Activities
$15,000
Musical Arts Association
Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra 2024-2025
$30,000
Musical Arts Association
Crescendo & Music Mentors 2024-2025
$20,000
Jennings-Fund for Teachers
$117,790.81
Supports teachers’ self-determined professional growth and development in order to enrich their own practice
Jennings Grants-to-Educators
$115,303.00
Grants up to $3,000 to Ohio classroom teachers and administrators
Jennings Opportunity Grants
$5,763.00
Grants up to $1,000 to schools and educational organizations for innovative projects
Musical Arts Association
Crescendo & Music Mentors 2025-2026
$20,000
Musical Arts Association
Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra 2025-2026
$30,000
Musical Theater Project
Strengthening “Kids Love Musicals!”
$12,000
Musical Theater Project “Kids Love Musicals!” at 20
$12,000
National Inventors Hall of Fame Inc.
2025 Camp Invention Program
$14,950
North Point Educational Service Center
The PortfoliOH Playbook
$30,500
Grant in Action
With support from the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation, Esperanza, Inc. continues to expand its Academic Success for Youth initiative for Hispanic high school students in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. The program provides academic support, mentoring, leadership development and career exploration opportunities that help students connect classroom learning to future goals.
The program has demonstrated strong outcomes, including a 96% on-time graduation rate among participating seniors and measurable growth in students’ social-emotional well-being.
North Ridgeville City Schools
Grid Method Mastery Learning Year 2
$15,000
Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra Inc.
School Clinics with Underrepresented Artists
$15,000
Ohio Energy Project
STEM Design Challenge
$14,105
Jennings Major Speaker Initiative
$6,255.66
Supports professional learning through presentations from nationally recognized education leaders.
Jennings Executive Director Opportunity Grants
$64,420.00
Provides funding for strategic initiatives that strengthen teaching and learning across Ohio
Jennings Dream Team AI Initiative
$25,000.00
Supports educators in responsibly integrating artificial intelligence into teaching and learning
Ohio Excels
Ohio Excels 2025 Support
$20,000
Ohio Soybean Council Foundation
ChickQuest: A Life Cycle Journey
$15,350
Otterbein University
NExT Hub Year 5
$24,900
Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership
Growing Through Agency & Purpose
$35,000
Philanthropy Ohio
2025 Education Policy Support
$20,000
Playhouse Square Foundation
Virtual Classroom Connections Workshops
$30,000
Rainey Institute
Rainey School of Music
$10,000
Re:Source Cleveland Teen Response
$15,000
Refresh Collective
Hip-Hop for Justice-Involved Youth
$15,000
Reynoldsburg City Schools
Slate Ridge Innovation Integration Project
$5,000
Ridgedale Local Schools
Building Sustainable Learning Communities
$20,000
Ridgemont Local Schools
The Educator AgriNetwork
$15,000
Rise Up: Northeast Ohio Life as a Scientist: Immersive Learning
$27,160
Roots of American Music Inc.
Blues is the Backbone Spring 2026
$15,000
Shaker Lakes Regional Nature Center
Experiential Science Programs for CMSD
$15,000
Southeast Local Schools
Keys to Our Students’ Future
$11,900
Spice Acres Field Kitchen Inc.
Understanding Our Community Food System
$15,000
Teach For America Inc.
Targeted Support of Ohio Teachers
$40,000
Teaching Cleveland Foundation
Teaching Cleveland Student Challenge
$15,000
Toledo Science Center Engineering for Confidence
$13,000
Union Local Schools
Workplace Wellness
$20,000
Grant in Action
The Columbus Council on World Affairs is expanding opportunities for students through the Global Scholars Diploma program with funding from the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation. The investment has supported experiential workshops and student-led Take Action Projects focused on real-world challenges and global issues.
Through the program, students build communication and leadership skills while learning to engage across cultures and explore international career pathways. These hands-on experiences help students connect classroom learning to real-world issues and grow as global citizens.
United Local Schools
United Learning for a United Future
$21,000
University of Akron Foundation Center for Structured Literacy
$15,000
University of Cincinnati Foundation
GCSC Makers in Education
$15,000
University of Cincinnati Foundation
Early IT Teacher Lead Fellows
$18,000
University School Entrepreneurship Education for Educators
$15,000
Western Local Schools
STEAM Career Day 2025
$10,000
Western Reserve Historical Society
Youth Entrepreneurship Education
$15,000
Grants-to-Educators
Dr. Tabatha Stover Hilliard City Schools Preschool
Dr. Gus Farmakidis Akron Public Schools
Danielle Shaub Lake Local Schools
Richard Day Tallmadge City Schools
Bradley Helenthal Norwayne Local Schools
Joshua Cintron Manchester Local Schools
Jon Darkow Amherst Exempted Village Schools
Steven Clark Shelby City Schools
Zachary Griffith Akron Public Schools
Mike Brodwolf Columbus Grove Local Schools
Justin Abshear Dalton Local Schools
Fred Johnson Manchester Local Schools
Henry Rauhaus Cleveland Metropolitan Schools
George Garrett Mathews Local Schools
Western Reserve Local Schools
Writing Revolution
$10,500
Wexner Center Foundation
K-12 Arts-Integrated Educational Programs
$15,000
Wynford Local Schools
Implementing Wit & Wisdom With Fidelity
$31,200
Wynford Local Schools
Building Sustainable Mathematical Discourse
$17,564
Young Men’s Christian Association Lake County
Arthur Holden Leadership Institute
$45,000
Youth Opportunities Unlimited Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates (JOG) Program
$20,000
Jason Smith Benjamin Logan Local Schools
George Edmonds Columbus City Schools
Scott Lightle Western Local Schools
Shawn Zavodney Manchester Local Schools
Keven Wise Margaretta Local Schools
Aimee Darnell Perry Local Schools
Jennifer Buckler Western Local Schools
Madison Heddleson Noble Local Schools
Nicole Wermert Westerville City Schools
Hannah Rings Jonathan Alder Local Schools
Julia Dolce Euclid City Schools
Jill Weaver Valley View Local Schools
Kerrigan Gardner Carey Exempted Village Schools
Allison Bisignani Greene County Career Center
Angie Smith Hilliard City Schools Preschool
Kelly Fulton Delaware City Schools
Christina Laudermilt St. Clairsville-Richland City Schools
Kelly Fulton Delaware City Schools
Amy Hall Wooster City Schools
Meredith Zimmerman New Richmond Exempted Village Schools
Heather Young Columbus City Schools
Amy O’Connell Madison Local Schools
Tara Hootman Triway Local Schools
Cassandra Rondinella Akron Public Schools
Veronica Price-Story Cleveland Metropolitan Schools
Megan DeVito Near West Intergenerational School
Jennifer Taylor Midwest Regional Educational Service Center
Susan Tenon Fairport Harbor Exempted Village Schools
Fund for Teachers
Fund for Teachers is a national organization based in Houston, Texas that supports educators’ efforts to develop skills, knowledge and confidence that impact student achievement. The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation is proud to be a local partner that helps fund summer fellowships worldwide for teachers who think big. Fellows are celebrated at the annual Educators Awards banquet, held in July.
Jennings - FFT 2025 Fellowships
25 fellows
8 individual projects
7 teams
Fund for Teachers Spotlight
Meet Jessica Pahl, a teacher at Northmont High School and a 2025 Jennings-Fund for Teachers Fellow. Through her fellowship, Jessica traveled to Finland to explore educational practices and cultural traditions that support student wellbeing, engagement and learning.
While there, she participated in a Finnish Midsummer retreat that highlighted the importance of nature, community and reflection. The experience offered a unique perspective on balance and wellness, values that are also reflected in Finland’s approach to education.
Inspired by what she learned, Jessica has incorporated new ideas into her classroom, including opportunities for students to spend
more time outdoors, build connections and approach learning with renewed focus. She was particularly struck by the way Finnish schools prioritize student well-being through regular outdoor breaks between classes.
Through the Jennings-Fund for Teachers program, educators like Jessica bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas back to their classrooms, creating meaningful learning experiences for students across Ohio.
Scan the QR code to view Jessica’s fellowship presentation and discover how her experience in Finland influenced student engagement and classroom culture at Northmont High School.
Jennings Award Winners
Each year, the Jennings Foundation recognizes outstanding educators in five categories:
• Arthur S. Holden Science Teacher of the Year
• George B. Chapman, Jr. Math Teacher of the Year
• Ohio Master Teacher of the Year
• George B. Milbourn Team Teachers of the Year
• Ohio Superintendent of the Year
Superintendents and principals nominate teachers. Teacher awardees receive a $7,500 grant while the superintendent awardee receives $10,000 for their district. All winners are also recognized at our Annual Educators Awards Banquet.
2025 Winners
ARTHUR S. HOLDEN SCIENCE TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Matt O’Diam
Valley View Local Schools
Matt has transformed science education at Valley View High School through innovative teaching strategies and the integration of virtual reality and artificial intelligence to make complex scientific concepts engaging and accessible for students. Through tools like the Prisms VR platform and the ThinkLaw program, he encourages critical thinking, realworld problem-solving and confidence in the classroom. His commitment to professional growth and supportive, high-expectation teaching has made him a respected mentor and leader in science education.
GEORGE B. CHAPMAN, JR. MATH TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Jennifer Molnar West Geauga Local Schools
Jennifer has transformed math instruction at West Geauga Middle School through student-centered learning, innovative lesson design and collaborative teaching strategies that empower students to take ownership of their learning. Her classroom is recognized for its engagement and inquiry, particularly through her “blind dating” instructional format that promotes peer teaching and deeper understanding of math concepts. She has also strengthened department-wide instruction through shared materials, thoughtful leadership and exceptional teaching practice.
GEORGE B. MILBOURN TEAM TEACHERS OF THE YEAR:
Patti Cramer and Julie Harkness
Lakewood City Schools
Patti Cramer and Julie Harkness exemplify the power of teamwork in education through their collaborative first grade classroom focused on academic rigor, creativity and student well-being. Through intentional co-teaching and the implementation of the Amplify CKLA curriculum, they create engaging, inclusive learning experiences that foster curiosity and confidence among students. Beyond the classroom, they mentor fellow educators, share resources and continuously refine their teaching practices to support student success.
OHIO MASTER TEACHER OF THE YEAR:
Dr. Shu Hui Lin
Cleveland Heights-University Heights City Schools
Dr. Shu Hui Lin creates student-centered learning experiences that connect meaningful academics with cultural relevance and real-world application. Through hands-on projects in Mandarin Chinese, business and entrepreneurship courses, she encourages creativity, critical thinking and community engagement while empowering students to become confident leaders. Beyond the classroom, she supports student growth through initiatives like DECA and the Heights Innovation Hub.
OHIO SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR:
Dr. Eugene Blalock, Jr.
North College Hill City Schools
Dr. Eugene Blalock, Jr. is a visionary leader whose innovative approaches have transformed North College Hill City Schools through inclusive learning opportunities, community engagement and student-centered leadership. His pioneering 4-Day Blended Learning Calendar and creation of the Trojan Way Learning Center reflect his commitment to meeting students’ diverse needs while supporting teacher collaboration and growth. Known for his hands-on leadership style and deep connection to the community, he has fostered a culture of unity, care and resilience that continues to strengthen student success across the district.
Celebrating Service and Leadership
Tribute to George B. Milbourn
George B. Milbourn’s 33 years of service to the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation represent a remarkable legacy of leadership and stewardship. As a member of the Board of Directors since 1992, George served as President/Chair from 2000 to 2016, providing steady leadership, thoughtful guidance and continuity during a period of significant growth and evolution for the Foundation.
Following his tenure as President/Chair, George remained an active and valued member of the Board, generously sharing his wisdom, experience and dedication until his retirement in 2025. His leadership, vision and commitment have left a lasting imprint on the Foundation and its work. The Foundation is deeply grateful for George’s decades of service and the legacy he leaves in support of educational excellence across Ohio.
Dr. James Connell: 24 Years of Dedicated Service
Dr. James Connell’s 24 years of service to the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation reflect a deep dedication to educational excellence and a meaningful contribution to the Foundation’s work. Beginning in 2001, Dr. Connell served in a variety of capacities including evaluator, distribution committee member and grant reviewer, consistently stepping forward wherever his expertise and support were needed most. He brought thoughtful insight, professionalism and a
steadfast commitment to recognizing and supporting outstanding educators across Ohio.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Connell’s careful judgment, attention to detail and willingness to serve helped uphold the Foundation’s high standards and strengthen its impact on educators and students. His contributions have left a lasting mark on the organization and the countless individuals it has supported. The Foundation is deeply grateful for Dr. Connell’s years of dedication and the enduring influence of his contributions.
Dr. James Mahoney: Supporting Excellence in Education
During his eight years as an Evaluator with the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation, Dr. James Mahoney brought energy, insight and a genuine passion for supporting educators. His careful reviews and thoughtful perspective helped highlight and celebrate the meaningful work taking place in classrooms and communities across Ohio.
Dr. Mahoney’s approach reflected a deep appreciation for the power of great teaching and the difference educators make in the lives of students. His contributions strengthened the Foundation’s ability to recognize and support excellence in education. He concluded his service in May 2025 and we are grateful for his time, dedication and the positive impact he has had on the Foundation and the educators it serves.
2025 Financial Snapshot
Navigating Change in Public Education
On May 2, 2025, the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation partnered with the Greater Cleveland School Superintendents’ Association to host a timely discussion on the future of federal education policy and its implications for Ohio’s public schools. The event brought together more than 100 superintendents, school leaders and nonprofit partners committed to supporting student success and strengthening public education.
The event featured Derek W. Black, a professor of law at the University of South Carolina and one of the nation’s leading experts on educational equality, school funding and public education policy. Black shared insights on emerging federal priorities and the evolving role of the U.S. Department of Education, helping participants better understand how policy changes may affect students, educators and school communities across Ohio.
The discussion provided an opportunity for education leaders to exchange perspectives, deepen their understanding of a rapidly changing policy landscape and consider strategies for supporting schools and students in the years ahead.
Investing in Progress
The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation continues to support schools and educators across Ohio through investments that strengthen student learning and expand educational opportunities. In East Cleveland City Schools, MHJF awarded two grants to support innovative, student-centered initiatives focused on academic engagement and success.
The district continues to demonstrate meaningful progress. In January, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce officially released East Cleveland City Schools from Academic Distress Commission oversight after the district had been under state control since 2018. More recently, the district received statewide recognition from Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine for significantly improving student attendance and reducing chronic absenteeism by more than 10% in early 2026.
The recognition highlights East Cleveland City Schools’ ongoing commitment to creating supportive learning environments and improving outcomes for students. MHJF is proud to partner with districts that are advancing opportunities for students and strengthening public education in their communities.
Board of Directors
Mrs. Anne C. Juster Chair | President
Former Board Chair, Facing History and Ourselves
Mrs. Debra H. Guren Vice-President President & CEO, The Hershey Foundation
Mr. Leigh H. Carter Relationship Manager, Glenmede Wealth Management
Mr. George B. Milbourn
Retired Vice President, Coe Manufacturing
Mr. Thomas A. Richlovsky
Former Executive Vice President, PNC Financial Services Corporation
Mr. John M. Gherlein
Retired Partner, Baker Hostetler
Mr. Jon H. Outcalt Treasurer Chairman, Federal Process Corp.
Mrs. Koyen P. Shah Secretary
Co-founder, The Aspire Program of Hathaway Brown School
Distribution Committee Staff
Mrs. Jane Neubauer, Committee Chair
Dr. James V. Connell
Mrs. Habeebah Grimes
Mrs. Doreen E. Osmun
Mr. Kyle G. Rose
Mr. Michael R. Sheppard
Dr. Bernice M. Stokes
Dr. Jack Thompson
Dr. Sajit Zachariah
Ambassadors
Mrs. Margaret S. Connell
Dr. Reva Cosby
Mr. Paul J. Cynkar
Mrs. Marsha Dobrzynski
Ms. Nadine Grimm
Mrs. Sharon A. Jones
Dr. William Kist
Dr. James W. Mahoney
Dr. Thomas J. Lasley
Dr. Bill Wagner
Mr. Derran Wimer
Ms. Christine Nestor
Executive Director
Mrs. Billie Pandy
Executive Assistant
Director of Finance, Operations, & Strategic Initiatives
Ms. Kathy Morris Director of Grants Management and Programming
Dr. Renée T. Willis
To foster the development of young people to the maximum possible extent in Ohio’s PK-12 public schools and to provide a greater means for accomplishment on the part of Ohio’s teachers by encouraging creativity in teaching and bringing greater recognition to the teaching profession.