News

Joe Mazur Stepping Down As President And CEO Of The International Soap Box Derby

Joe Mazur

Joe Mazur is stepping down as President/CEO of International Soap Box Derby, Inc. to take on the same role at the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Mazur will remain with the Derby organization until Friday, March 10. Following Mazur’s departure current Derby Vice President Bobby Dinkins will oversee day-to-day operations as the Derby Board conducts its search for a permanent successor. The CEO search process is currently under way.

“Joe has played an instrumental part of our organization’s turnaround” said Derby Chair Kevin Thomas. “We owe him a debt of gratitude for what he has accomplished and for his passion and commitment to growing and strengthening our portfolio of programs and offerings, stabilizing our base beyond our signature FirstEnergy All- American Soap Box Derby racing program, as well as positioning us for exciting opportunities to significantly expand our STEM and education outreach.”

When Mazur was hired in March, 2011, the non-profit organization was beginning to emerge from a period of declining participation and financial uncertainty. .

“Under Joe’s leadership and the Board’s guidance, the organization has become financially stable and organizationally sound,” Thomas said.

The Derby’s STEM-based education has grown to include the Gravity Racing Challenge STEM Team Competition, a Soap Box Derby Mini Car Program, STEM Summer Camps and the newly released education curriculum.

In addition, more events were added to the world famous Derby Downs facility, including Senior Day presented by Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Family Day presented by The City of Akron, Inclusion Day presented by the GPD Group Employees’ Foundation and Kids Day.

The Hall of Fame and Museum expanded to include more than 100 world championship cars and is now housed at Topside at Derby Downs. The President’s Youth Leadership Award was established to recognize volunteers under the age of 21 who have made a positive impact on the Soap Box Derby through their leadership on the local or national level. For the first time in its 80-plus year history, the Derby implemented a formal strategic plan in 2014 and enhanced its mission.

“The Derby’s Board is committed to continuing the path that was outlined in the strategic plan and new mission,” added Thomas. “The strategic plan and the mission are our guiding principles to our decision-making and will be moving forward as we continue to strengthen and grow the Derby program.”