Join us to celebrate two individuals whose advocacy has ensured young people have access to the behavioral health support they need.
Date: May 7, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Cost: Starting at $100.00
Location: Windows on the River
Senator Nickie J. Antonio
Senator Nickie J. Antonio, the Minority Leader of the Ohio Senate, is a respected, collaborative problem-solver who is known for centering the needs of children and families. More than 30 years ago, she worked as a teacher-counselor at PEP, beginning a lifelong commitment to the healthy development of young people. In 2018, when PEP Connections was under threat, Senator Antonio—then a state representative—emerged as a key advocate, helping colleagues understand the program’s value and the need to expand it statewide. Her effective advocacy helped lay the groundwork for the creation of OhioRISE.
Matt Dolan
Matt Dolan is the CEO of Team NEO, where he is dedicated to driving economic growth and prosperity across Northeast Ohio. He previously served in the Ohio General Assembly as both a state representative and state senator, where he was a trusted advocate for children and mental health. In 2018, as chair of the Ohio Senate Finance Committee, he helped secure critical funding to preserve PEP Connections when the 30-year-old program was threatened by proposed budget cuts. Because of his leadership, not only did PEP Connections survive, but it has served as a model for the statewide program now known as OhioRISE.
FORMAT
Panel discussion moderated by Russ Mitchell, anchor and managing editor, WKYC studios
DATE
May 7, 2026
REGISTRATION BEGINS
11:30
EVENT TIME
Noon - 1:30
LOCATION
Windows on the River
2000 Sycamore, Cleveland, Ohio
PARKING
Free parking is available in the lot adjacent to Windows.
Russ Mitchell
Russ Mitchell is an anchor and managing editor at WKYC studios in Cleveland, Ohio. Russ has been honored with multiple local and national Emmy Awards. He has received the National Association of Black Journalists Award, the Society of Professional Journalists Sigma Delta Chi Award for his coverage of the Elian Gonzales story, and the New York Association of Black Journalists Award for the Best Documentary.
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