It is an honor to serve as Board Chair of Leadership Arlington for 2026–2027. This organization has a proud history of bringing people together, expanding their understanding of our community, and preparing them to lead with greater purpose. I am excited about what we can accomplish together in the year ahead.

Leadership is more than the positions we hold or the titles given. It is what we do with our knowledge, relationships, and influence to make a meaningful difference. This year, our focus will be on strengthening how Leadership Arlington prepares people to take that action.

One of our most significant priorities will be redesigning our Adult and Youth Leadership curricula. Our community continues to grow and change, and our programs must evolve with it. We will build on the strengths of Leadership Arlington while creating more intentional, relevant, and engaging learning experiences. Our goal is to ensure that every participant leaves with a deeper understanding of Arlington, stronger leadership capabilities, meaningful relationships, and a clear commitment to serve.

Alumni engagement will be equally critical. Leadership Arlington does not end at graduation. Our alumni are one of our greatest assets—a powerful network of leaders with the experience, relationships, and capacity to make an even greater collective impact. We are STRONGER together! We will create more opportunities for alumni to reconnect, mentor current class members, continue developing as leaders, and contribute their talents to the community.

These priorities are connected. A stronger curriculum develops prepared and committed leaders. An engaged alumni network gives those leaders a place to continue growing, serving, and working together.

Whether you are a current class member, an alumnus, a community partner, or someone considering Leadership Arlington for the first time, I invite you to be part of this work. Show up. Reconnect. Share your experience. Mentor someone. Help us shape what comes next.

Together, we can honor Leadership Arlington’s legacy while building an even stronger future for our organization and our community.