Howard L. Lewis Appointed to Tri-C Board of Trustees

Ohio governor names Lewis to two-year term on board

CLEVELAND — Howard L. Lewis has been appointed to the Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C^®) Board of Trustees for a term ending in October 2027.

Lewis founded Family Heritage Life Insurance Company of America in 1989 and served as its president and CEO until April 2014, when he was named the chairman emeritus. He retired at the end of 2019.

He began his professional career in financial services with Central Trust Company in Cincinnati before moving in 1978 to Picker International, where he advanced to national business manager. He later joined Progressive Insurance in 1981 as a regional manager and launched its Canadian operations, leading to rapid sales and profit growth. In 1983, he moved to Capitol American Life Insurance Co.

Lewis joined the Cuyahoga Community College Foundation board of directors in 2019 and was named the chairperson of the Foundation board in 2025. He has also served as the chairperson of the Foundation's development committee since 2020. He was a co-chair of the successful Skills to Succeed campaign, which wrapped up in 2023, raising more than $58 million for the College.

"The Board of Trustees is thrilled to welcome Howard, whose deep commitment to Tri-C and distinguished leadership experience will strengthen our work together to advance the College's mission and expand opportunities for our community," said Geralyn Presti, chair of the board.

Lewis earned a BBA from the University of Kentucky in 1970 and was selected to the university's Hall of Distinguished Alumni in 2015. He holds an MBA from Xavier University.

He and his wife, Ruth Ann Lewis, reside in Moreland Hills.

Lewis was appointed by Gov. Mike DeWine for a two-year term that began in December 2025.

February 13, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT: Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu