17-County Leadership Program Celebrates 2026 Graduates

The York County Development Corporation (YCDC) celebrated the completion of the 2026 17-County Leadership Program on Thursday, October 15, with a graduation luncheon at the York Country Club.

The program, offered in partnership with York University, brought participants together for three sessions in August, September, and October. Through the BetterCulture curriculum, led by Dr. Shannon Leinen of York University, participants explored leadership and workplace culture while building connections with others in the program.

The 2026 graduates and their organizations are:

• Laura Bjerrum — Holthus Convention Center
• Avery Blum — York County Community Coalition
• Joseph Davis — York University
• Amber DeWald — Cornerstone Insurance Group
• Betsy Forbis — York Chamber of Commerce
• Felicity Johnson — York County Visitors Bureau
• Marie Krausnick — Upper Big Blue NRD
• Jeanne Simons — Genie Fae Creative Connections & Workshop
• Collin Tucker — York University

The program provided dedicated time for participants to reflect on their leadership approach and consider how they can apply what they learned within their organizations and communities.

“Leadership shows up in everyday decisions, how we support our teams, work through challenges, and bring others into the conversation,” said Lisa Hurley, YCDC Executive Director. “This program gives people time to step back, learn together, and think about what they can do differently when they return to work. That is an investment worth continuing, and we look forward to welcoming another group in 2027.”

The final day included a morning class session followed by lunch and graduation with participants and their guests. Dustin Marvel, Government & Community Relations Manager of Omaha Public Power District, served as the opening speaker, and Wesley Leuck, Chief Operating Officer of Schwisow Construction, delivered the closing remarks.

The graduation recognized participants’ commitment to learning and the time they invested throughout the program. It also celebrated the relationships formed during the sessions and encouraged graduates to put their learning into practice.

YCDC thanks Dr. Leinen, York University, the program’s speakers, sponsors, and participating employers for supporting leadership development and making it possible for participants to take part.

The 17-County Leadership Program will be offered again in 2027. Individuals interested in participating, as well as employers interested in enrolling members of their teams, are encouraged to contact Grace Staehr, Economic Development Coordinator, at gstaehr@yorkdevco.com to learn more and receive updates about the next program.