José Vasquéz Takes Charge as JumpStart's New Board Chair
People | Nov 18, 2024 | JumpStart Inc

JumpStart, a venture development organization, has appointed José Vasquéz as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. Vasquéz succeeds Jeanne Coughlin and officially assumed the role on November 14. With a strong background in entrepreneurship, technology, and community development, Vasquéz is expected to guide JumpStart through its next phase of growth, leveraging his experience as a founder and CEO of Quz Media and Chief Marketing Officer at Growth Opportunity Partners, Inc. Vasquéz has been a board member for over seven years and has played a crucial role in shaping the organization's strategy. JumpStart CEO Julie Jacono expressed excitement for Vasquéz's leadership, emphasizing his understanding of inclusive entrepreneurship and community service. Additionally, JumpStart has strengthened its board with the addition of six new members from various prestigious organizations, enhancing the board’s diversity and capacity to advance JumpStart's mission of driving economic vitality through support of tech startups and small businesses.
Sectors
- Venture Capital
- Economic Development
Geography
- United States – JumpStart operates extensively within the United States, offering services and support primarily in Ohio.
- Ohio – Specific mention is made of JumpStart’s efforts and initiatives across Ohio, emphasizing its regional impact and focus.
Industry
- Venture Capital – JumpStart operates as a venture development organization aimed at supporting tech startups and small businesses, aligning with the characteristics of the venture capital industry.
- Economic Development – The organization's mission focuses on driving economic vitality and fostering entrepreneurship, relevant to economic development efforts.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| JumpStart Inc. | Venture Development Organization | Company | A venture development organization recognized for aiding tech startups and small businesses with resources and strategic support. |
| José Vasquéz | Board Chair | Person | Newly appointed Chair of JumpStart's Board of Directors with extensive expertise in entrepreneurship and community development. |
| Jeanne Coughlin | Former Board Chair | Person | Outgoing Board Chair who led JumpStart through significant years of growth and strategic planning. |
| Julie Jacono | CEO of JumpStart Inc. | Person | CEO of JumpStart who is working closely with the new board chair to continue organizational growth. |
| Quz Media | Company founded by José Vasquéz | Company | An organization founded by José Vasquéz, recognized for innovative business growth strategies. |
| Growth Opportunity Partners, Inc. | Company where José Vasquéz was Chief Marketing Officer | Company | An organization focused on creating economic opportunities through business lending and advisory services. |
| Ann Graffice | New Board Member | Person | Executive VP at Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment and newly appointed board member at JumpStart. |
| Dean Uher | New Board Member | Person | Senior VP at PNC and newly appointed board member at JumpStart. |
| Jim Ellis | New Board Member | Person | Managing Director at Cleveland Clinic and newly appointed board member at JumpStart. |
| Karan Jolly | New Board Member | Person | Managing Director at Ernst & Young Capital Advisors and newly appointed board member at JumpStart. |
| Marco Grgurevic | New Board Member | Person | Managing VP at Greater Cleveland Partnership and newly appointed board member at JumpStart. |
| Paul Wellener | New Board Member | Person | Retired Vice Chair at Deloitte and newly appointed board member at JumpStart. |