Matt Dolan is CEO of Team NEO, an organization dedicated to driving economic growth and prosperity across Northeast Ohio. He served in both the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio State Senate, where he chaired the Finance Committee. In these roles, he oversaw billions of dollars in budget decisions and spearheaded initiatives to strengthen Ohio’s economy. Matt and his family have been deeply involved in the Northeast Ohio business community, including as owners of the Cleveland Guardians.
Dan Niss is President and a founder of Charter Next Generation, an industry leader in high-performance specialty films used in flexible packaging. In 2021, the company transitioned to employee ownership, giving every employee a financial stake in the business. Niss is also a respected leader in the region for investing in projects that strengthen and enrich the community he calls home.
Drawing on their wide-ranging experience in public office and entrepreneurial endeavors, former Ohio Senator Matt Dolan and businessman and entrepreneur Dan Niss will discuss their perspectives on what drives economic development and opportunities for Ohio’s continued economic growth.
October 22, 2026
Noon - 1:30 pm
Myers Convocation Center, Ashland University
By Ashbrook Center
Presented by speaker Matt Dolan and Dan Niss
Register by October 16
This program is presented as part of Burton D. Morgan Foundation’s 2026 Speaker Series on Free Enterprise
