News

International Soap Box Derby Makes Staff Changes To Promote Program Growth

International Soap Box Derby® President and CEO Joe Mazur announced several staff changes that will position the Derby for significant growth over the next several years. Bobby Dinkins has been promoted to the newly created position of Vice President, and Morgan Garner has re-joined the Derby as Event Manager. In addition, Doreen Thorne has been hired as Marketing Manager.

“The Derby has gone through a notable transformation over the last several years,” said Mazur. “To continue our mission we’ve added the position of Vice President and brought in two individuals that will really make a positive impact on our nonprofit organization.”

Dinkins currently serves as the Derby’s Director of Marketing and Branding. Over the last two years, Dinkins was responsible for the Derby’s overall marketing initiatives and sponsorship generation.

“Bobby has done a tremendous job in his role as Director of Marketing,” said Mazur. “We’ve seen a remarkable increase in sponsor dollars since he joined the staff in the fall of 2012. He has really made a positive impact on the Derby’s marketing efforts as well. I’m looking forward to working with Bobby in his new role as Vice President as he takes on more responsibility overseeing the different departments and direction of the Derby.

Garner returns to the Derby after a short stint with the Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio. She was the Derby’s Assistant Events Manager from May 2012 – Aug. 2014. She will be responsible for planning and executing the many events that take place at the world famous Derby Downs Track.

“We’re thrilled to have Morgan back as our Event Manager,” said Mazur. “Morgan’s knowledge of Derby activities will help us as we continue to make our current events stronger as well as attract new events to the track.”

Thorne brings a vast marketing background. She recently worked at Diebold where she was responsible for the marketing of the Central Upgrade Services and the Global Finance groups. In this role she was instrumental in developing internal and external marketing initiatives that were contributory to securing some of the largest contracts for remanufactured Automated Teller Machines and customer-owned equipment.

“Doreen’s background and skill set are a great addition to the staff,” Mazur said. “She has the project management and creative skills to help us move to the next level. We’re glad to have her as part of the Derby team.”

About International Soap Box Derby
The International Soap Box Derby is an international nonprofit organization whose mission is to build knowledge and character, and to create meaningful experiences through collaboration and fair and honest competition. The Derby’s Core Values and Drivers include: Youth Education and Leadership Development; Family Engagement and Enrichment; Honesty, Integrity and Perseverance; Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Teamwork and Collaboration; Mentoring; Volunteerism; and Commitment to Community. The Derby’s two youth initiatives are the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby racing program and the STEM-based Education Program, which provides educational opportunities for K-12 youth worldwide through Soap Box Derby racing. The Derby dates back to 1934, when the first All-American race was held in Dayton, Ohio.

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Rachel Whinnery
Communications Manager                        
International Soap Box Derby                  
330.733.8723, ext. 20            
rachel@aasbd.org                          
www.aasbd.org