This year’s Judge William P. Kannel Child Advocate of the Year Award honoree is Chief of Akron Police Department, Brian Harding. Brian serves as the Chief of Police of the City of Akron. Chief Harding attended the University of Akron where he earned his bachelor’s degree in technical education with an associate’s degree in criminal justice. He has 30 years of law enforcement experience and has been with the Akron Police Department since 1995. Brian has been promoted several times throughout his tenure and was most recently promoted to Chief in May of 2024. Chief Harding is a graduate of Leadership Akron Class 39, has attended the Police Executive Leadership College and has received multiple awards for his service. He is known for his focus on community policing and public safety initiatives and actively engages in local outreach programs to build trust within the community.
The Judge William P. Kannel Child Advocate of the Year Award is given to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary commitment to improving the lives of abused and neglected children in Summit County. This award is dedicated to the memory of the Honorable William P. Kannel, founder of the Summit County CASA Program. Judge Kannel’s administration of the Juvenile Court was recognized for its progressive approach and innovative programming and it soon became a model for other Juvenile Courts across the State of Ohio. His tenure on the bench was marked by his gentle nature, his fairness and his devotion to the children of this community.
