Leadership Rochester

03/23/2026

The Power of Economic Development

This month, our Leadership Rochester Class of 2026 was hosted on the beautiful RIT Campus, and had the opportunity to participate in a power-packed day focused on Economic Development in the Greater Rochester region, and what it will take to build a stronger, more equitable future.

I want to extend my sincere thanks to our incredible speakers and panelists who brought expertise, insight, and real-world perspective to the room:

From regional strategy and growth with Leah George VanScott(Greater Rochester Enterprise) to industry insights from Chris Suozzi (Genesee County Economic Development Center), our cohort gained a deeper understanding of the forces shaping our local economy.

Our discussion on the New York State ON-RAMP & Tech Hub,expertly moderated by Joseph Stefko (OneROC), featuring Kathleen Martin (NextCorps), Dr. Robin Cole (MCC), Ryne Raffaelle (RIT), and Chris Harris (RIT) highlighted the innovation and collaboration driving our region forward.

The Workforce Development Panel, led by Molly McGowan, Ph.D. and featuring Rich Turner , Rosalie Clemens, and Kim Ga***rd , grounded us in the importance of talent pipelines and aligning workforce systems with opportunity.

Our afternoon site visits to NextCorps, MCC FWD Center, and RIT’s cutting-edge facilities brought learning to life, demonstrating how innovation, education, and industry intersect right here in Rochester.

We closed the day with a powerful Minority & Women-Owned Business Fireside Chat featuring Jessica L. Lewis , Maisha Beard, and Ebony Miller, MBA, reminding us that equitable economic development must center access, opportunity, and inclusion.

To all who shared their time, knowledge, and leadership- thank you!
You helped equip the next generation of leaders with the insight needed to drive meaningful change in our community.

02/25/2026

Leadership expands beyond title.

✅Are you passionate about strengthening the Rochester community?
✅Do you believe collaboration across sectors creates lasting impact?
✅Do you want to expand your network with purpose-driven leaders?

Leadership Rochester is seeking bold, thoughtful, and community-minded individuals to join our next class of exceptional executive leaders. We are now accepting Applications & Nominations for the Class of 2027!

This immersive leadership experience brings together a diverse array of professionals from across industries to deepen their understanding of critical issues, build meaningful relationships, and strengthen their capacity to lead with purpose across the greater Rochester Region.

We invite you to apply now!
LR Alumni, now is the time to nominate!

Nominate & Apply using the following links below.

Apply Here: https://forms.gle/v2gBSdUcPgVMTtuT7

Nominate Here: https://forms.gle/2H5PuFaeQ8qoipCw8

🚨The Application Deadline is Friday, June 5, 2026

02/11/2026

If you’re a Leadership Rochester alum, you know the mid-year retreat is one of the most memorable parts of the program, an experience that stays with you long after it ends.
A heartfelt thank-you to Skip Helfrich for skillfully facilitating the first day of our retreat, setting the stage for meaningful reflection and connection. On day two, our cohort built on that momentum with insightful conversations that deepened our understanding and brought shared learning to life.
The day began with a powerful foundational discussion led by Shane Wiegand and Sydney Bell of Our Local History, followed by Sady Alvarado-Fischer, who guided us through a thoughtful and reflective lens.
In the afternoon, a community panel moderated by Nikisha Ridgeway highlighted the lived experiences of our neighbors and the impactful work happening across Rochester. Panelists Caridad Sosa-Blackwell, Dr. Candice Lucas, Annette Ramos, and Madison Byrne offered inspiring perspectives that reminded us of the importance of collaboration and community care.
Continuing that theme, Dr. Kesha Carter CDE®, PHR, helped us translate those lessons into actionable steps within our organizations through an engaging and interactive activity.
To close the day, Laura Sugarwala, MBA, RDN, centered us with intentional breathing and mindfulness, a grounding and restorative conclusion to an inspiring two-day experience.

02/07/2026

Leadership Rochester’s mid-year, 2-Day retreat was a wonderful success thanks to the energy and engagement of our participants. Keep an eye out for our recap soon!

01/28/2026

Still energized from the Leadership Rochester Kickstart Leadership Symposium! This year, nearly 100 leaders came together for a powerful day of connection, learning, and inspiration. As anticipated, the energy was unreal.

Our dynamic keynote, Dr. Ashley Cross, introduced us to the Science of Hope, while an engaging fireside chat led by Krystle Ellis, prompted incredible insights from Eboni Henderson,John Scully, Sara Goins, Kayla Carpitella, and Rachel Betts.

Every moment delivered with our workshop presenters Dr. Wanda Cooper, Christina Gullo, Michelle Lee, and LaCerius Cross.

Special thanks to Dr. Beth Paul and Darrell Bell for welcoming us back to Nazareth University’s Glazer Music Performance Center, a stunning space for an unforgettable day. And deep gratitude to our sponsors who made it all possible!

We’re still energized, and we're only just getting started!

01/21/2026

The core of leadership is service! This past Friday, our current cohort of dynamic leaders delved deeper into systems change discussion, interactive scenarios, and service to our community! It was a day filled with great energy. Thank you NextCorps for hosting our class day!

01/12/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 3rd Annual Leadership Rochester Kickstart Symposium! Because of you, it was a powerful start filled with connection, learning, and Hope filled momentum. Let’s keep leading forward! Keep an eye out for our Symposium recap.

01/06/2026

Hear from our Executive Director, Camille Simmons, as she shares more about what’s in store for this Friday!

Leadership Rochester is gearing up for its third annual Kickstart Symposium, guiding potential leaders in how to solve problems.

01/06/2026

3-Days, The countdown continues! This Friday, January 9th Leadership Rochester will host our 3rd Annual Kickstart Leadership Symposium at the beautiful Glazer Music Performance Center, located at Nazareth University!

This is your opportunity to make value connections, and network with other local professionals and community leaders, you will hear from our line up of dynamic speakers, who will most certainly set a powerful the tone for the new year!
Ashley Cross, Ed.D, MNM ,Wanda Cooper EdD, Christina GulloMichelle RowlandLC CrossKrystle Ellis "The Culture Broker"

📌Learn More & Register Today:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kickstart-2026-leadership-symposium-tickets-1968262748866?aff=oddtdtcreator

12/16/2025

The countdown is on! Kickstart 2026 is only weeks away, and we can’t wait to share what’s in store. From dynamic speakers to powerful conversations, January 9, 2026, will be a day designed to equip leaders to "Lead During Times of Uncertainty."

Interested in partnering as a sponsor or vendor? There’s still time to get involved and support leadership growth across our region.

➡️ Learn More & Register Today:
https://leadershiprochester.org/kickstart/