Junior Achievement names new leader

President looks forward to expanding relationships

Junior Achievement of Greater Cleveland this week announced the promotion of Al DiFranco to the position of president effective July 1.

DiFranco has served in the role of vice president of development and programs of Junior Achievement for the past three years, “generating record levels of foundation and corporate support for the organization.”

He has also overseen significant growth in the nonprofit’s “Inspire” and “Stock Market Challenge” programs throughout Northeast Ohio.

“Al is the perfect leader for Junior Achievement as we move forward in our efforts to serve a greater number of K-12 students in our region while deepening our impact on the students,” said Board Chairman Charlie Crowley.

“Al has done great work and has played a critical role in cultivating relationships with our school partners and funding partners, while also spearheading several successful special events,” Crowley added.

“The board is very pleased to promote Al into a larger leadership role on the team.”

DiFranco, 45, holds a bachelor’s degree from Baldwin Wallace University and a master’s from Capella University.

He has also received a certificate in leadership from the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University and was president of the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce from 2015 to 2017.

“It is truly an honor and privilege to be named president of Junior Achievement of Greater Cleveland,” the Mentor resident said.

“I am proud of the work our team and our volunteers have done in our local schools despite these challenging times.

“I look forward to developing stronger relationships with our corporate and community partners so we can continue to provide important life skills for students and make a significant impact in our community.”

Junior Achievement’s mission is to inspire and prepare young people to succeed by collaborating with community volunteers who serve as role models helping to positively impact perceptions about the importance of education and critical life skills.

Preparation involves the promotion of financial literacy, work, career readiness and entrepreneurship.

Junior Achievement partners with more than 200 K-12th grade schools in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake and Lorain counties, and has served more than 100,000 students in the past five years.

For more information, call 440-339-1974 or email adifranco@jacleveland.org.

Al DiFranco