January 29, 2026 – Chapter Meeting
Program Details
Keynote Presentation: The Transformative Power of Education in Our Region
Presented by Sara Elaqad, Executive Director of Minds Matter Cleveland, this session highlights the transformative power of education and mentorship in shaping brighter futures for young people across Northeast Ohio. Sara will share how targeted mentoring programs help students overcome barriers, unlock potential, and achieve long-term academic and personal success.
Through real examples from Minds Matter Cleveland, attendees will gain insight into why educational attainment matters for the strength of our region and how community and business leaders can make a meaningful difference in the lives of students who need it most.
About the Speaker: Sara Elaqad has been a passionate supporter of Minds Matter Cleveland since 2011 and has served as its Executive Director since 2018. She began her involvement as a mentor and has dedicated herself to ensuring the success of Cleveland students. Sara’s commitment to education extends to her service on the Cleveland Board of Education, where she has served since 2019 and currently holds the position of Chair. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Council of the Great City Schools, an organization focused on improving education for students in urban schools nationwide.
Sara earned her B.A. from The Ohio State University and her Juris Doctor from Case Western Reserve University School of Law. She believes deeply in the potential of every young person and the responsibility of adults to help remove barriers to success. As she says, “Education should be the great equalizer, and Minds Matter helps make that true.”
https://mindsmattercleveland.org/
Event Details/Registration
DATE / TIME:
Thursday, January 29, 2026
4:30-7:30pm
REGISTRATION:
FEI Members/Strategic Partners: free of charge
Guests: $50.00