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.
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.