Emerging Leaders of United Way of Lake County Announce 2025 4 Under 40 Honorees  

Mentor, OH (December 11, 2025) – The Emerging Leaders of United Way of Lake County have announced the honorees for their seventh annual 4 Under 40 awards, recognizing outstanding young professionals in Lake County for their leadership, community involvement, entrepreneurship, and professional achievements.

Their 2025 designees include Ashley Cozzens, Community Relations Director, Lake County Board of DD; Joel DiMare, Director of Administrative Services, Lake County Commissioner's Office; Zerina Hutchinson, Owner, Fit4Mom Lake County; and Brandon Morse, Owner/Operator, Furniture Warehouse Ohio.

Winners were selected by a committee following a holistic review of their personal achievements, professional accomplishments, and contributions to the community.

The honorees will be recognized the evening of Thursday, January 29, 2026, at The Everly in Mentor over heavy hors d'oeuvres and drinks.

The event is open to the public with advance registration. Complete details, registration, and sponsorship opportunities can be found at uwlc.org/4under40-reception.

“Highlighting the achievements of our 4 Under 40 honorees allows us to celebrate not just individual success, but the positive impact these leaders have on the entire Lake County community,” said Emerging Leaders Chair Lindsay Defeo.

Last year’s awards recognized Kathryn Baden, CEO of Olympus Aerospace; Rochelle Fowler, Process Specialist at The Lubrizol Corporation; Kerry Jonke, Manager of Customer Experience at Laketran; and Francisco Veloz Vela, President of Veloz Landscape & Nursery.

According to United Way of Lake County President and CEO Dione DeMitro, “It’s meaningful to recognize these rising stars. Their accomplishments remind us of the power of leadership and the legacy we can build by giving back.”

Nominees were submitted by members of the community, and all were required to live in Lake County and fall between the ages of 21- 40 years old during the year ending December 31, 2025.

The Emerging Leaders of United Way of Lake County welcomes new members interested in volunteering their time and talent to impact Lake County’s youth.  To learn more about the Emerging Leaders, visit United Way of Lake County’s website at uwlc.org/emerging-leaders.