Columbus Chamber Establishes the John W. “Jack” Kessler Community Leadership Award

The Columbus Chamber of Commerce has announced the creation of the John W. “Jack” Kessler Community Leadership Award, a new annual honor recognizing individuals whose leadership, vision, and sustained commitment have strengthened the fabric of the Columbus Region. 

The award is named in recognition of John W. “Jack” Kessler, Co-Founder and Chairman of The New Albany Company, whose decades of civic and business leadership have helped shape Central Ohio’s growth, institutions, and community life. 

“Jack Kessler represents the very best of community leadership,” said Derrick R. Clay, President and CEO, Columbus Chamber of Commerce. “His career reflects a deep commitment to service, collaboration, and the belief that strong communities are built through sustained leadership and shared purpose. This award ensures that legacy continues by honoring leaders who carry those values forward.” 

Kessler currently serves as an executive board member of The Columbus Partnership and is the recipient of the 2019 John F. Wolfe Columbus Way Leadership Award, recognizing leaders who exemplify collaboration and civic responsibility. Over the course of his career, he has held numerous transformational leadership roles, including serving as Chairman of The Ohio State University Board of Trustees, United Way of Central Ohio, the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio Arts & Sports Facilities Commission, among many others. 

His service has extended across business, education, arts, and public institutions, including board roles with JPMorgan Chase & Co., The Limited, Inc., Abercrombie & Fitch, the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. His contributions have been recognized through some of the region’s highest honors, including induction into the Central Ohio Business Hall of Fame, the Builder of Columbus Award, the Gerlach Award from The Ohio State University Foundation, and COSI’s John Glenn Inspirational Award. 

The John W. “Jack” Kessler Community Leadership Award will be presented annually to an individual who exemplifies integrity, service, and a commitment to creating a thriving, inclusive, and forward-looking Columbus Region. 

The inaugural award will be presented at the Columbus Chamber’s Community Leaders Reception on Thursday, January 15 and accepted by his daughter, Liza Kessler. 

About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber of Commerce is a mission-driven nonprofit organization that serves more than 2,500 organizations across the Columbus Region. Founded in 1884, the Chamber serves as a strategic partner to the region’s businesses. We convene the community, advocate as the active voice for business, and navigate the insights, connections, and solutions that drive prosperity and growth. As the epicenter of the Columbus Region business community, the Chamber provides an interconnected ecosystem where businesses collaborate to eliminate barriers to success, creating a vibrant environment for enterprises throughout the region. Together, we make our region an exceptional place to do business. Learn more: columbus.org.