Leadership Central Penn Welcomes the Class of 2027

 

 

 

Source: Taryn Crayton Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Vice President

Understanding a community has never been more important or more difficult. Most of us experience only a small piece of the region we call home through our workplace, our industry, our neighborhood, or the organizations we support. Yet thriving communities require leaders who understand how schools, healthcare providers, businesses, nonprofits, local governments, and economic development organizations all work together to create opportunity and improve quality of life.

Leadership Central Penn was created to build that understanding. Through exploration, education, and relationship-building, the program helps participants see the bigger picture and prepares them to become more informed, engaged, and effective leaders in our community.

Participants take a deep dive into the organizations, industries, and issues that shape our region. Program days focus on topics such as education, healthcare, economic development, government, philanthropy, agriculture, and manufacturing. As our community evolves, the program evolves alongside it, ensuring participants gain a current and relevant understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Central Pennsylvania.

This week, we are excited to welcome the Leadership Central Penn Class of 2027 as they participate in their first full day of class. We are grateful to these individuals and the organizations that have invested in their growth and demonstrated a commitment to strengthening our region.

Leadership Central Penn Class of 2027

· Brenda Albertson - Geisinger

· Brianna Apfelbaum Kula - 1994 Charles B. Degenstein Foundation

· Kimberly Beck - Geisinger

· Daniel Buttorff - Arconic

· Rachel Etzweiler - Bloomsburg Children's Museum

· Lucas Fetterman - Agape

· Elizabeth Hazzard - The Women's Center, Inc.

· Geoffrey Johnson - Bloomsburg University Foundation

· Loni Kline - Journey Bank

· Jordan Klinger - Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community

· Alexa Longacre - CSIU 16

· Samartha Okyne - Geisinger

· Danelle Osborne - Geisinger

· Chad Roeder - McKonly & Asbury

· Shawna Roleski - Community Strategies Group

· Katy Snyder - PPL

· Jessica Thorne - First Keystone Community Bank

· Shemar Wheeler - Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble

· Haeden Yough - Pennsylvania Senate

· Stephanie Young - Sean Black State Farm

The value of Leadership Central Penn extends beyond learning about the community. Participants also invest significant time in developing the leadership skills needed to navigate challenges, build relationships, and lead effectively in today's workplace and civic landscape.

The class completes more than 20 hours of professional leadership instruction focused on Trust and Listening, Emotional Intelligence, Crucial Conversations, Coaching for Performance and Development, Conflict Resolution, and Leading Change. These are practical skills that participants can immediately apply within their organizations and throughout their careers.

The experience extends beyond classroom learning. Participants work alongside local nonprofits on community-based projects, gaining firsthand experience in volunteerism and civic engagement. They also attend local government, school board, county, township, and nonprofit board meetings to better understand how decisions are made and how community challenges are addressed.

The ultimate goal of Leadership Central Penn is to develop well-rounded leaders who return to their workplaces with stronger leadership skills, broader perspectives, and a deeper understanding of the communities they serve. When leaders understand the interconnected nature of education, business, healthcare, government, and the nonprofit sector, they are better equipped to collaborate, solve problems, and create positive change.

Please join us in congratulating and welcoming the Leadership Central Penn Class of 2027. We look forward to watching these leaders grow, build connections, and make a lasting impact throughout our region.