Vanessa L. Whiting, A.E.S. Management Corporation president pens foreword for WWIB Cleveland
Who’s Who In Black Cleveland proudly announces that Vanessa L. Whiting, President of A.E.S. Management Corp., attorney, investor, and civic leader, will author the foreword for the upcoming 18th edition of Who’s Who In Black Cleveland.
The 18th edition will celebrate the achievements, leadership, and impact of Black professionals and entrepreneurs throughout Northeast Ohio while continuing the publication’s tradition of honoring Black excellence across the region.
“Ms. Whiting’s long standing commitment and service to Northeast Ohio has been significant and impactful,” says Rhonda Crowder, Who’s Who In Black Cleveland Associate Publisher. “I could not think of a more suitable person to pen the foreword as we salute Black business leaders in this 18th edition.”
Whiting is widely recognized throughout Northeast Ohio for her leadership in business, community development, and philanthropy. After the passing of her late husband, Anthony E. Smith, founder of A.E.S. Management Corp., she assumed leadership of the company and served as CEO until its sale in 2025. Under her leadership, the company employed more than 420 residents across Cuyahoga and Summit counties through its Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen franchise operations.
In addition to her business leadership, Whiting is an accomplished attorney and real estate developer with extensive experience in economic and community development law, public finance, and urban revitalization. She currently serves as Board Chair of the United Way of Greater Cleveland and Vice Chair of the Cleveland State University Board of Trustees. She also previously served as Chair of the MetroHealth Board of Trustees, where she helped establish the organization’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion framework.
Whiting has received numerous honors throughout her career, including the 2025 Humanitarian Award from the Diversity Center, the YWCA Women of Achievement Award, and Crain’s Woman of Note recognition.
The 18th edition unveiling and networking reception for Who’s Who In Black Cleveland will be held on August 31, 2026, at the InterContinental Hotel Cleveland.