Weatherhead 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees: A Closer Look
Celebrating leadership, innovation and impact on society
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Himanshu S. Amin, Esq.
MGT ’93, LAW ’95
Himanshu Amin is the Founder and Managing Partner of Amin, Turocy & Watson, LLP, where he established one of the largest electrical/computer science patent groups in the nation. His firm is highly sought after by Fortune 100 and 500 companies for its expertise in complex electrical and computer patent matters. Ham is renowned for conducting forward patenting sessions with senior executives and top researchers, bolstering patent portfolios for over 20 high-tech Fortune 500 clients.
Beyond law, he is a fractional owner of Hofbrauhaus Cleveland and IOIO Medical Spa, advises Resilience Capital Partners, and manages Gammite Ventures, an early-stage tech fund. His academic contributions include serving as an Adjunct Professor at Case Western’s School of Law, teaching Strategic Intellectual Property Management and Advanced Patent Preparation.
Amin’s accolades include being listed in Super Lawyers Magazine. He serves on the Board of Trustees for Playhouse Square and is active with Weatherhead School and several corporate boards. His career began as a design engineer at a multinational engineering firm, laying the foundation for his future success in intellectual property law.
Scott S. Cowen, DBA
HON ’11
Scott S. Cowen is a visionary leader in higher education. Cowen, President Emeritus of Tulane University and former dean of the Weatherhead School, is celebrated for his transformative impact on academia and community development. Currently a Distinguished Presidential Visiting Professor at Case, Scott’s career began with significant contributions as one of the youngest deans at the Weatherhead School. Here, he launched innovative programs and oversaw the construction of the Peter B. Lewis Building and enhanced the school's reputation in global business education through practical, partnership-driven learning.
As Tulane University's 14th president from 1998 to 2014, Scott steered the institution through the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, integrating public service into its curriculum and revitalizing New Orleans' education and healthcare systems. His leadership during this crisis earned him recognition as one of TIME Magazine's top college presidents.
Cowen also served as interim president of Case Western Reserve during the COVID-19 pandemic—he’s the master of disasters, apparently—guiding the university with resilience and strategic communication. A prolific author, his works on leadership and urban transformation include the books "Lead and Success," "Winnebagos on Wednesdays," and "The Inevitable City."
Honored by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the Carnegie Corporation, Scott Cowen's legacy of innovation, leadership, and service continues to inspire future generations.
Michael E. Gibbons (posthumous)
MGT ’75
The late Michael Gibbons, a distinguished alumnus of Weatherhead School and Cleveland State’s College of Law, left a profound impact as a corporate attorney, entrepreneur, and community leader. His illustrious career began as a bonds trader at McDonald & Company, where he quickly rose to leadership roles. Mike went on to become Executive Vice President, President, and CEO of Underwood Neuhaus & Company, showcasing exceptional leadership skills.
In 1989, he founded Brown Gibbons Lang & Company, one of the largest middle-market investment banks in the U.S., and established BGL Real Estate Advisors, managing a significant private real estate portfolio. His legal and business expertise earned him accolades in The Best Lawyers in America.
Mike’s contributions extended beyond business. He was a Managing Partner and Co-Owner of the Cleveland Crunch, held board positions with several organizations, and was an active member of Weatherhead’s Visiting Committee. His commitment to public service inspired his U.S. Senate runs for Ohio, driven by his son Ryan’s military service.
Known for his integrity and dedication, Mike’s greatest pride was his family. His enduring legacy continues to inspire those who knew him and benefited from his contributions.
Larry Goldrick Sr.
MGT ’76
Cleveland native Larry Goldrick Sr. built an illustrious career over six decades marked by leadership, innovation, and a dedication to mentoring.
Larry’s professional journey began at Reliance Electric in 1959, where he was a pioneer in using computers for engineering analysis, significantly advancing industrial electric motor development.
At White Motor Company, Larry further cemented his reputation by integrating computer technology into stress analysis and drive train design. His career spans roles in computer programming, design, recruiting, purchasing, supply chain, and logistics, highlighting his adaptability and expertise. Notably, he spent 16 years as a consultant at Kimball Midwest, driving strategic planning and launching a Chemical Division, before retiring in 2016.
Post-retirement, Larry continued his commitment to mentorship and community service. Through SCORE, he provides critical support to small businesses. His volunteer work includes contributions to the International Refugee Center and the Great Lakes Science Center, as well as impactful mentorship with Weatherhead students. His dedication led to the creation of the Larry Goldrick Sr. Scholarship in 2014, benefiting over 25 students in Supply Chain and Data Analytics.
With a Bachelor of Science from Wayne State and an MBA from Weatherhead, Larry remains an active force in mentoring and community service, leaving a lasting legacy in both professional and personal spheres.
Ramona Hood
MGT ’16
Ramona Hood, a distinguished business executive and strategic innovation expert, made history as the first African American CEO of a FedEx operating company, FedEx Custom Critical. Her journey from Akron, Ohio to a top leadership position exemplifies her dedication and visionary approach. Rising from an entry-level position, she built resilient, diverse teams and became a trusted advisor to boards and executives globally.
Now focused on community engagement and empowerment, Ramona serves as a leadership advisor and speaker. As the Founder and President of Aphthonia, she emphasizes operational excellence and strategic growth. Her mission is to foster innovation, streamline processes, and cultivate cultures of continuous improvement for individuals and organizations.
Ramona’s leadership and commitment to equity have earned her features in Forbes, CNBC and more, highlighting her transformative impact. She actively serves on boards including Brinker International, the Knight Foundation, Summa Health, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, where she champions equity and amplifies organizational influence.
Ramona continues to inspire others by fostering an abundant mindset and purposeful action, aiming to build a legacy of leadership and community empowerment.
Matthew Jones
CWR ’03
Matthew Jones, a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley and Head of ETRADE from Morgan Stanley, leads the firm's Direct Digital business, bridging technology with personalized financial advice.
Since joining Morgan Stanley in 2008, he has held key roles including Head of Wealth Management Strategy, driving analytics initiatives and playing a pivotal part in the acquisitions of Solium and ETRADE. Matt plays a central role in shaping how one of the world’s leading financial institutions engages with millions of investors in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
A Cleveland-area native and Case Western Reserve alumnus, Matt was inspired by professors and peers at the Weatherhead School. His leadership is characterized by purposeful innovation, integrating data-driven decision-making with a focus on personal and community development.
Matt’s leadership philosophy is rooted in purposeful innovation—combining data with a deep commitment to developing people and communities.
Active in his Brooklyn community, Matt supports civic engagement and education, alongside his wife Amanda, who leads a youth service nonprofit. Together, they are dedicated to empowering the next generation to lead and create positive local impacts.
Rodney K. Rogers, PhD
GRS ’96, Accounting
Dr. Rodney Rogers, President of Bowling Green State University since 2018, drives the University’s strategic initiatives as its first alumnus president. Under his leadership, BG launched transformative growth plans, such as the Forward initiative, enhancing its role as a 21st-century public university.
While President, Rogers expanded academic offerings, particularly in healthcare and STEM, and established unique programs like the Cedar Fair Resort and Attraction Management.
Rodney introduced the Life Design initiative, empowering students through design thinking. His leadership in fundraising secured BG's largest philanthropic gifts, resulting in record enrollments and academic milestones. The university's largest fundraising campaign, Changing Lives for the World, raised over $255 million.
Previously, Rodney served as provost and dean of the Schmidthorst College of Business at BG. With a diverse academic background including a Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve, he has extensive teaching and consulting experience with global organizations. His influence continues to shape BG’s national profile and commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.
Celia and Albert J. Weatherhead
Celia Scott Weatherhead and her late husband, Al, are esteemed philanthropists known for their visionary contributions to education, health, and business innovation. Celia, who is a dedicated philanthropist and community leader, earned her undergraduate degree in theatre and a Master of Education. As President of the Weatherhead and Albert J. Weatherhead III Foundations, she promotes access, excellence, and impact, while also pursuing her passion for breeding and training Italian greyhounds.
Al Weatherhead, a Harvard graduate and war veteran, was a pioneering business executive who transformed Weatherchem Corporation into a leading manufacturer. Known for his inventiveness and business acumen, he held several patents. Al passed away in 2011, leaving a profound legacy of innovation and generosity.
The Weatherheads’ philanthropic vision is characterized by accountability and creative mission-driven funding. Their connection to Case Western Reserve led to the naming of the Weatherhead School and the iconic Peter B. Lewis Building. Recently, Celia pledged a sizeable gift to establish the Celia Scott Weatherhead Leadership Institute, focusing on experiential and ethical leadership development among Case students.
Celia and Al Weatherhead exemplified service and transformative impact, uplifting institutions and individuals through their enduring commitment to making the world a better place.
Nadya Zhexembayeva, PhD
GRS ’08, Organizational Behavior
Dr. Nadya Zhexembayeva, a global authority on reinvention and resilience, is acclaimed as “The Reinvention Guru” and also “The Queen of Reinvention.”
Zhexembayeva guides prominent companies like Coca-Cola, IBM and Cisco in reinventing their business models and leadership practices to thrive amid disruption. A former Coca-Cola Chaired Professor of Sustainable Development, she has taught at prestigious institutions, including the Weatherhead School and others in Mexico and France.
A sought-after speaker, Nadya has delivered keynotes at over 150 global events, including TEDx talks, reaching diverse audiences through engaging, research-driven sessions. Her work has influenced executives from over 60 countries and has been featured in top publications such as Harvard Business Review and Forbes.
She is the author of award-winning books like "Overfished Ocean Strategy" and "Embedded Sustainability," with her latest, "The Chief Reinvention Officer Handbook," earning high acclaim. Holding a PhD in Organizational Behavior from Case Western Reserve, Nadya has significantly contributed to executive education and corporate reinvention, impacting over one million people across various industries.
