Speaker Date Topic
David Lee, President and CEO National First Ladies Sep 25, 2026

David Lee, President & CEO of National First Ladies, will join us to share an exciting look at The First Ladies Experience, a new project taking shape right here in Canton. David will discuss the vision for this new destination, its impact on our community, and the pride we can take in Canton being home to the nation’s only historic site dedicated to the lives and legacies of America’s First Ladies.

 

David Lee is a cultural leader and nationally recognized storyteller dedicated to bringing American history to life through bold, engaging, and accessible experiences. As President & CEO of the National First Ladies Library & Museum, he leads the nation’s only museum solely focused on interpreting U.S. history through the lens of the First Ladies, elevating their influence, leadership, and enduring impact on the country.

 

Under his leadership, the organization has expanded far beyond its physical campus in Canton, Ohio, developing innovative programs and digital initiatives that connect audiences nationwide to the stories that have shaped America. His work is grounded in the belief that history should be neither static nor distant, but alive, relevant, and reflective of the diverse voices that define the American experience.

 

A passionate advocate for access and inclusion, David has helped position the institution as a leading national resource for students, educators, and lifelong learners. He has also strengthened its national presence through a distinguished advisory board that includes every living First Lady, creating an unparalleled connection to both past and present history.

 

Known for his dynamic and compelling voice, David approaches history as a living narrative, inviting audiences not only to learn, but to see themselves within it.

Lynee Bixler Oct 02, 2026
Director of Marketing Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Lynee currently serves as the Director of Marketing & Communications at CVSR, where she also leads
the Guest Services team. With four years of dedicated service, Lynee has been instrumental in driving
the organization's success. She is particularly proud of her team's efforts in planning and executing
marketing and customer service strategies that have led to record sales in both 2023 and 2024. Under
her leadership, CVSR has expanded its social media reach, launched a successful monthly
newsletter, and revitalized the brand, significantly enhancing the organization 's visibility and
engagement.
On a personal note, Lynee was born and raised in the Cleveland area and graduated from The Ohio
State University. She loves to hike, spend time with family, listen to true-crime podcasts, and is always
up for a new adventure. She's a hot air balloon pilot, amateur artist, and has an unusual obsession
with candy corn.

Marianna DiGiacomo, Stark Library Oct 23, 2026
Marianna DiGiacomo has dedicated her career to strengthening the public library’s focus on literacy and community collaborations. Marianna joined Stark Library in 2007 and served as youth services librarian and literacy and events coordinator prior to her role as community services director. She directs Stark Library’s programming and events, literacy initiatives, mobile services, and community partnerships. She is a graduate of Leadership Stark County’s Government Academy, American Library Association’s Leadership Institute and serves on many local committees dedicated to ensuring children are ready for school success. She holds a Master's degree in Library Science from Kent State University.