Junior Achievement teaches tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, honors the leaders of today

 
As business professionals seek knowledgeable workers who possess the critical thinking, problem-solving and collaborative skills they need, Junior Achievement of Central Ohio is teaching these attributes and more to over 20,000 students in Central Ohio and neighboring counties.
JACO’s mission “to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy and to own their future economic success” is more important than ever before in today’s workplace.
With more than 2,000 trained volunteers to mentor and teach financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship skills to students in grades K-12, the organization’s belief in the boundless potential of young people drives more mentors each year to share their own experiences, challenges and successes with youth in schools throughout 14 counties in Central Ohio.
In fact, respecting the talents, creativity, perspectives and backgrounds of all individuals drives JACO’s success in the community.
“JACO’s conviction in the educational and motivational impact of relevant, hands-on learning is paramount to the success we’ve had and continue to exude throughout the schools and workplaces of Central Ohio,” says Debbie Bratka, JACO director of operations.
Beyond teaching tomorrow’s leaders, the organization also honors the Columbus business leaders of today by annually inducting laureates into its Business Hall of Fame.
Laureates must meet a series of criteria, including a history of achievement that demonstrates business excellence, courageous thinking and actions, vision and innovation, inspiring leadership, and community support/mindedness. They are nominated and voted on by their peers in a formal process.
This year’s honorees are Doug Kridler, president and CEO of The Columbus Foundation, and Yvette McGee Brown, partner at Jones Day and former justice of the Ohio Supreme Court. Smart Business caught up with Kridler and McGee Brown to discuss entrepreneurship and mentorship.