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TaKeysha's career pathway has been a winding road with detours that led to a passion for growing sustainable brands. “Ironically, I have a bachelor’s degree in criminology because at one point I thought I was going to law school,” says TaKeysha. “While I earned an MBA instead, studying criminology helped me understand the sociological and psychological factors that influence behaviors, which has been key to my success in brand marketing." 

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TaKeysha is the founder of Shep7, a brand marketing agency she launched to help socially responsible businesses grow. She previously served as Chief Marketing Officer for LeaderPromos, the largest wholly woman-owned and B Corp-certified distributor of corporate branded merchandise. As CMO, TaKeysha oversaw the company's creative design team and digital initiatives.

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Before LeaderPromos, TaKeysha coordinated sustainability, community and external affairs for American Electric Power; and founded and sold The Women’s Book, a media company she launched in various markets to connect businesswomen to local resources. She directed community and member engagement for Molina Healthcare of Ohio; and served as Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer for Bricker & Eckler (now Bricker Graydon), a leading corporate law firm.

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TaKeysha’s creativity inspires hobbies like deejaying and collecting art. While she calls Columbus, Ohio home, she is a native of Akron, Ohio, and enjoys spending time with her husband, kids, and family dog Malcolm.