Networking & Knowledge

Azia Carnes has worked with youth for over 8 years in a variety of different roles, including being an After-School Teacher at Mt. Auburn International Academy and Lead Teacher/Program Coordinator at KinderCare. Azia received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies at the University of Cincinnati, and her research focuses on brutality and injustice against women of color. Azia loves working with the youth and believes that there are so many voices that can change the world within them—all it takes is someone to listen! Azia has been with UpSpring since October 2022.

Aaron, a 25-year brand building vet in the corporate for-profit space, leads KCB’s development and communications work.  Aaron’s focus is on developing relationships with both individuals and corporate partners to sustain and grow KCB’s programming impact on our communities. He is passionate about sharing the mission and stories of KCB with all those who call Cincinnati home.

Johnny Lewis is the Managing Partner of the KPMG Cincinnati Office and leads a team of dedicated partners and professionals who guide clients through a wide range of complex business and industry challenges. Drawing on his extensive experience, Johnny collaborates seamlessly with KPMG’s specialists in risk assurance, management consulting, deal advisory, strategy, tax, and audit to deliver comprehensive solutions for global business issues.

With over 22 years in public accounting, Johnny has cultivated a deep specialization in the healthcare sector, complemented by significant experience in manufacturing and the broader public and private commercial markets. His expertise extends to a variety of audit engagements within the healthcare industry, including multi-state health systems, academic medical centers, and stand-alone hospitals, as well as their foundations and sponsoring organizations. He is also adept at navigating mergers and acquisitions, public and private bond offerings, and the complexities of hard-to-value investments.

Johnny is a key contributor to KPMG’s firm-wide healthcare initiatives. He is a member of the healthcare audit leadership team, develops training materials, and serves as a national and local instructor. His commitment to quality is further demonstrated by his participation as a reviewer in the firm’s national quality performance review program.

Throughout his career at KPMG, Johnny has been a passionate advocate for both internal firm activities and external community engagement, including serving on the boards of various not-for-profit organizations.

Josh Murphy, Director of Brand Marketing, Gorilla Glue

Josh leads brand strategy, the innovation pipeline, product marketing, and consumer insights for one of the most trusted names in adhesives and repair solutions. Known for bringing clarity, creativity, and smart business thinking to complex brand challenges, Josh helps shape the long‑term direction of the Gorilla portfolio while driving strong connections with consumers and retail partners.

Before joining Gorilla Glue, Josh began his career in the financial sector at Western & Southern Financial Group. A Cincinnati native and graduate of Xavier University, he blends local roots with a national marketing perspective.

Josh is passionate about the local Cincinnati community and serves as the chair for the Gorilla’s Give Back community outreach initiative.