2023 Cincinnati Business Achievement Awards honorees announced

President, Total Quality Logistics (TQL)

The Lindner Award is the highest honor a Lindner graduate can receive at the CBAAs, with a focus on entrepreneurial spirit, a commitment to business and reaching the highest levels of success within one’s profession. Kerry Byrne attributes his sustained success to those he’s able to work with since graduating from UC’s College of Business in 1987.

“Anyone will tell you it's easy to win when you're a part of a good team. We tell our new team members at TQL that two things you can control are your work ethic and your attitude,” Byrne said. “I think I figured that out early on and then tried to grow, learn and develop from there. But at the end of the day, I'm just part of the team.” 

A member of Lewis’ Business Advisory Council, Byrne spent over 17 years with Fifth Third Bank before Byrne joined TQL in 2005.

“He’s been a pleasure to work with,” Lewis said, “and we continue to learn with and from Kerry as an individual, an alum, a leader and an employer.” 

Deal Lead, Diverse Founders Investing, Wellington Management

Van Jones majored in finance and marketing and minored in real estate and emerging markets management at Lindner. Jones’ numerous professional accomplishments include co-founding the startup Hello Tractor in 2014. He transitioned into venture capital in 2019.

Jones’ volunteer service to both Lindner and UC across multiple disciplines showcases his dedication as an alumnus. For example, in fall 2021, Jones spoke virtually to Bearcat Ventures, UC’s student venture capital organization. 

“There are a lot of (UC) alums coming up with great ideas,” Jones told Bearcat Ventures. “I would try to be a part of that mix, because if you can be a part of that mix now, then when you guys are looking to transition your venture or launch your own fund or create your own fund, you'll be so much further along, which gives you a better edge in the market.”

Distinguished Teaching Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy, Department of Management

Charles Matthews, PhD, founder of what was first known as the Center for Entrepreneurship Education & Research in 1997, is an award-winning teacher and internationally recognized scholar in the field of entrepreneurship.

Matthews said the initial idea for the Center was to examine not just corporate America and the building of the economy, but the emerging startup scene, too.

“We really wanted to focus on this phenomenon of small business, entrepreneurship and innovation,” Matthews said.

The Business Partnership Award recognizes a business or organization that supports Lindner and local communities. Refinery Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm based in downtown Cincinnati, is an ideal partner for Lindner in the arena of entrepreneurship.

Refinery Ventures Managing Partner Tim Schigel noted that companies can benefit from partnering with Lindner, notably to organize co-ops or internships with Lindner's business problem solvers.

“Interns will have questions you may not ask as a veteran of the industry or somebody who is close to your customers,” Schigel said. “Having people in your company with a fresh perspective can be helpful.”