Aharon C. Brown
2025-2026 Obama Foundation USA Leader
Mayor, City of Forest Park, Ohio
Forest Park, Ohio
Aharon C. Brown is the mayor of Forest Park, Ohio, where he prioritizes community development to rebuild civic trust and expand economic opportunity. Since taking office in 2019, Aharon has established the city’s first Community Improvement Corporation, securing vacant and underperforming land for redevelopment and progressing with nearly 100 homes to date and planning towards 300 units of housing over the next three years. This work is deeply informed by his personal experience with housing insecurity. He also led efforts to decriminalize marijuana possession in Forest Park, Ohio, removing barriers to economic participation for residents disproportionately impacted by the justice system. He has pioneered local public-private partnerships as part of his servant leadership and aspires to strengthen the relationship between a government that delivers results and the citizenry for stronger social cohesion.
Meet the 2025-2026 United States Leaders
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Leaders
For emerging leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the common good.
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- The Center
- Building the Center
Join other Obama alumni in coming together to support the naming of the Water Terrace at the Obama Presidential Center in honor of the life and legacy of President Obama’s mother, Ann Dunham—as a gift for the President’s 61st birthday.
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- Defending Democracy
- Leaders
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- Barack Obama
Watch President Obama share his vision for the Obama Presidential Center during a surprise visit with supporters and stakeholders—a vision for a public space that will honor history, help revitalize the South Side, and connect people throughout the communi
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