This year’s annual luncheon for University Park Alliance has been postponed.
In a news release Thursday, UPA board Chairman David James said the organization, a nonprofit group working on the redevelopment of 50 city blocks around downtown, is in a period of transition with the recent departure of Executive Director Eric Anthony Johnson.
“We will reschedule this annual event when it appears most appropriate to do so,” said James, the superintendent of Akron Public Schools.
The annual luncheon, presented by gas company Dominion, was to feature writer and urban activist Candy Chang as guest speaker. It was scheduled for May 15.
“We’re grateful to Ms. Chang for rearranging her schedule to accommodate us,” James said. “We are pleased that we can have her appear when the event is rescheduled later this year, and we appreciate Dominion’s willingness to remain the presenter.”
Neighborhood residents, institutions and businesses that made reservations will be refunded.
“We have begun the process to search for a new executive director,” James said. “The board of directors of UPA is made up of the leaders of this community, and they are dedicated to the redevelopment of the University Park neighborhood and the core city and will continue the work of promoting community engagement.”
Johnson resigned earlier this month to care for his ill mother in Kansas. UPA Chief of Staff Carol Murphy is handling day-to-day operations. Retired Akron deputy mayor and civic activist Dave Lieberth recently was named as a consultant to help guide UPA real estate projects.
About 600 people attended last year’s luncheon, which generally sells out.
Betty Lin-Fisher can be reached at 330-996-3724 or blinfisher@thebeaconjournal.com. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/blinfisher and see all her stories at www.ohio.com/betty.