Generation Z is taking the workplace – and the world – by storm. Born between 1997 and 2012, this generation grew up with the Internet, social media and smartphones fully incorporated into their daily lives. Their childhood and young adulthood were marked by the challenges of a post-9/11 world, the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic.
As more Gen Zers enter the workforce, they’ve put their digital native skills to use, already achieving milestones in their respective industries. However, they’ve also developed some negative stereotypes about their working habits, qualities and desires.
The Akron Press Club will hold a discussion about the challenges and opportunities facing Generation Z in Northeast Ohio, featuring a panel of young professionals and college students. It will be moderated by Ideastream Public Media Reporter/Producer and Akron Press Club Vice President of Programming Anna Huntsman – a Gen Zer herself, but a self-proclaimed “cusper.”
There will be an opportunity for questions from the audience to “get the tea” on Gen Z.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Time: Doors open 11 a.m. Buffet lunch served at 11:30 a.m. Program begins at noon.
Location: The East End, 1201 E. Market St., Akron, OH 44305
Cost: $35 for individual tickets | $210 per table of 6
Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests must be received no later than 48 hours before the event. After that time, there will be no refunds and an invoice will be issued for payment.
About the panelists:
Zanmehm Aung
Zanmehm Aung is an undergraduate student at The University of Akron pursuing Bachelor of Arts degrees in Philosophy and Political Science, with minors in Legal Philosophy and Ethics. His academic work focuses on the intersection of law, ethics, and public policy, particularly how legal institutions respond to complex moral and societal challenges. On campus, Zanmehm serves as a Student Ambassador and an Undergraduate Representative for The Federalist Society, where he helps introduce students to campus events, promotes discussions on legal and constitutional issues, and connects students with opportunities for civic and academic engagement. He is also active in speech and debate, developing his interests in rhetoric, public discourse, and legal argumentation. Zanmehm plans to attend law school and pursue a career in medical malpractice and health law.
Jenna Borthwick
Jenna is an Account Manager at Cleveland Research Company (CRC), an independent research firm that provides market intelligence to help companies gain a competitive advantage. In her role, she works closely with clients to help them apply CRC’s research, analyst engagement, and industry events to real business decisions. Prior to joining CRC, Jenna worked as a producer at WEWS-TV Channel 5 in Cleveland. She graduated from Kent State University with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism, where she was a recipient of the John S. Knight scholarship. A Northeast Ohio native, Jenna currently lives in downtown Cleveland. Outside of work, she enjoys cheering for Cleveland sports teams, trying new restaurants, and planning her next trip abroad.
Patricia Porter
Patricia is the Digital Media Assistant in the City of Akron Mayor’s Office, where she has served for two years. Born and raised in Akron, she earned a B.S. in Visual Communication, magna cum laude, with a Certificate in Diversity Studies from Ohio University in 2023. While attending OU, she worked as the Marketing and Communications Manager at a local arthouse theater from 2019 to 2023.
Jordan Rogan
Jordan is a senior at The University of Akron majoring in Philosophy, Sociology, and Psychology (PSP), with a prospective minor in Creative Writing. Inspired by visits to her mother’s workplace as a child welfare social worker, Jordan developed a strong passion for social justice and supporting marginalized communities. She hopes to pursue a career in counseling or nonprofit work and is driven by a commitment to improve the lives of people who may be unable to advocate for themselves.
Proceeds from Akron Press Club events fund scholarships for journalism and public relations students. Between the Press Club and the John S. Knight Memorial Scholarship Fund, scholarships of $5,000 were awarded to nine students in 2025. The Press Club sincerely thanks Summit County, Dr. Aileen Thong and Elizabeth Bartz for their donations to the scholarship fund. The Press Club also partnered with Sojourner Truth Education Committee to award two scholarships to Akron Public Schools graduating seniors.