OPEN M Welcomes New CEO Christine R. Curry

AKRON, OH, July, 27, 2020​— The OPEN M Board of Directors and staff are pleased to announce the selection of Christine R. Curry as the new CEO of OPEN M effective July 20, 2020. Curry succeeds OPEN M’s Interim CEO, Patricia Wicks, who assumed the position in February 2020. OPEN M selected Curry after an extensive search led by the OPEN M Board of Directors.

During her short, but challenging, months as CEO, Wicks has made many necessary changes in the functionality of OPEN M including the optimization of the current and future potential of the OPEN M staff along with many other notable achievements. Under her leadership, OPEN M raised $100,000 for construction and first-year operating costs of the ​Harry and Fran Donovan Dental Clinic ​ ; served hundreds of families in the Mountain of Food Program; earned a Gold Rating in the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinic’s Quality Standard Program; and helped dozens of new and existing clients facing unemployment or job loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. OPEN M anticipates that Curry will leverage these achievements to lead the organization in enhancing and expanding its services to meet even more people in need in the Summit County Community and beyond.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we would like to welcome Christine to the position of CEO and the OPEN M family. We are extremely excited and look forward to Christine bringing her years of experience and success to OPEN M,” said John Margida, president of the OPEN M Board of Directors.

“Christine brings a diverse background that will enhance our Ministry and we look forward to OPEN M becoming the benchmark for organizations across the region,” Margida added.

Prior to joining OPEN M, Curry served the Northeast Ohio Medical University as special assistant to the president and as stewardship and development program coordinator within the University’s Division of Advancement. She previously spent two years as a member of the City of Akron’s Mayor’s cabinet as director of communications and more than 18 years at The University of Akron, in a variety of roles including director of development/stewardship and donor services, director of alumni relations and as a public relations representative.

Curry is a proud alumnae of Akron Public Schools, graduating from Garfield High School and The University of Akron where she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communications. She is a strong believer in giving back to her community and currently serves on the Akron Roundtable Board of Trustees, LeBron James Family Foundation – LAB Community Board and our Lady of the Elms Board of Trustees. Curry is a member of Leadership Akron – Class 24.

“It is truly my privilege to serve in this role for OPEN M. I am looking forward to guiding our organization to new heights as we move our mission forward to meet the growing needs of individuals and families who require our help today. OPEN M is here for the community. We are here to give the people of Akron and Summit County hope, help and sustainability,” said Curry.