A letter from the chairman

Junior Achievement of Central Ohio is proud to host the Central Ohio Business Hall of Fame ceremony. The Hall of Fame has recognized more than 80 distinguished business leaders during the past 23 years.

This year’s inductees — Larry Abbott, David Bianconi, Sandra Harbrecht and William Lhota — are fantastic additions to the Central Ohio Business Hall of Fame. Each of these leaders has demonstrated passion and leadership in developing their businesses and our community. Their entrepreneurial spirit is a key part of the fabric of the Central Ohio business community.

Junior Achievement prepares young people to succeed in the global economy by igniting and fueling the spark to own their future economic success. We are committed to teaching financial literacy, work readiness skills and an entrepreneurial mindset to students throughout Central Ohio.

JACO works with the students, the leaders of school systems, passionate volunteers, local business leaders — like the ones we are honoring in the Business Hall of Fame — and our community. Together, we are partnering to deliver a stronger and more entrepreneurial work force in Columbus and Central Ohio.

I am excited about what the entrepreneurs of the past and present have done for Central Ohio. I am thrilled at the prospects of what our Junior Achievement alumni will do for our community over the next decade.

Today, we have an opportunity to help young people take control of their future. It is time for the next generation of entrepreneurs to be developed, encouraged and taught. Join me in standing up for our children.

Mike Hyzdu is the chairman of the board for Junior Achievement of Central Ohio and the vice president of UBS Financial Services.