William J. Ginter

Bill Ginter, 74, became involved in the Soap Box Derby in late 2009, leading an effort to stabilize the financial position and operations of the organization. As a long-time Akron civic leader, Ginter engaged local government and the business community to provide financial, management and governance support to the youth racing program. He joined the Soap Box Derby board of directors in 2010 and served as chairman from 2011 through 2016. Ginter was instrumental in securing FirstEnergy Corporation as title sponsor in 2012. He continues as an honorary board member of the Soap Box Derby and is a current or former officer or board member of United Way of Summit County, Akron Red Cross, Greater Akron Chamber, Summit County Board of Development Disabilities, Summa Health System, Summa Foundation, Workforce Development Board and BlueCoats. He retired as executive vice president and chief operating officer of Advanced Elastomer Systems in 1998; he is a commercial real estate developer and serves on the advisory boards of several private companies.