AKRON, Ohio (Jan. 16, 2023) – International Soap Box Derby, Inc. (“Soap Box Derby”) announced that Mark Gerberich has resigned as president and chief executive officer, effective Feb. 24, 2023.
“The board of directors of the Soap Box Derby is grateful for Mark’s service and his significant contributions to the organization since he joined it in May 2017 – he has helped the Soap Box Derby achieve financial and operational stability and expand its Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)-based programming in elementary, middle and high schools” said Bret Treier, board chair.
The Soap Box Derby will immediately commence a search to identify a successor to Gerberich.
About the Soap Box Derby
The International Soap Box Derby® is a non-profit youth education and leadership development organization whose mission is to build knowledge and character, and to create meaningful experiences through fair and honest racing competitions, STEM curriculums, and other community-focused activities. 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. For more information, visit www.soapboxderby.org