'Great Living Cincinnatians' for 2026 include three UC alumni

Chamber honors standouts for profound impact on the region

Three University of Cincinnati alumni have been named by the Cincinnati Regional Chamber to its 2026 class of “Great Living Cincinnatians.

For nearly 60 years, the Chamber has celebrated the leadership, vision, accomplishments and love of community shared by the recipients of the Great Living Cincinnatian award.

“The Bearcats honored this year as ‘Great Living Cincinnatians’ personify the success that is a hallmark of the UC alumni family,” UC Chief Alumni Officer Jennifer Heisey said.

“The UC Alumni Association is thrilled to see such an affirmation of UC's excellence from the Chamber. We offer our heartiest congratulations to the honorees on this well-earned recognition.“

UC's recognized alumni

  • Karen Bankston, PhD, Nur ’05, a leader in the health care administration and nursing fields.
  • Pete Strange, CEAS ’72, longtime CEO of Messer Construction Co.
  • Jeff Wyler, Bus ’65, Hon ’11, founder of the Jeff Wyler Automotive Group.

Featured image at top: Tangeman University Center clock tower. Three UC alumni were named Great Living Cincinnatians in 2026 by the Cincinnati Regional Chamber of Commerce. Photo/UC Foundation

Visit the Cincinnati Regional Chamber website to meet all of the 2026 honorees.

Related Stories

1

Just in: UC tops 50,000 students

August 21, 2023

The University of Cincinnati is anticipating a record fall enrollment with a projected 50,500 students. The growth represents a 5.39% increase and reflects the university's core values around academic excellence, access and inclusion, and affordability.

2

Uplifting stories help #UCtheGood

July 16, 2020

UC Marketing + Communications gathers recent uplifting stories to help the community focus on the good during coronavirus pandemic.