Leadership Lancaster

Reflecting on a powerful 2025 Core Class Day of Understanding! 🌟 Last Friday, the 2025 Core Class gathered at Armstrong World Industries for a meaningful day of learning, sharing, and reflecting on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our community. From the moment they arrived, participants were invited to approach their personal experiences with grace and empathy, exploring moments when they felt different or misunderstood, as well as times when they may have unintentionally overlooked others. Throughout the day, we delved into misconceptions and misunderstandings with the DISC model, thanks to Greg Orth of Sandler Training, and gained valuable insights into DEI initiatives at the Commonwealth from Norman Bristol Colón, Pennsylvania's Chief Diversity Officer. A highlight of the afternoon was the Candid Conversations with local leaders, where honest dialogue about challenges and solutions for creating an inclusive workplace and community left a lasting impact. A huge thank you to our dynamic speakers and panelists, including Greg Orth, Sandler Training, Norman Bristol Colon Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Hannah Short YWCA Lancaster, George Tobler VisionCorps, Chelsea Christmas ASSETS Lancaster, Salena Coachman Armstrong World Industries, and Alex Otthofer Lancaster City Alliance, for their wisdom and candor. Together, we’ve sparked important conversations that will shape our path forward in fostering inclusion and understanding in all that we do. Special thanks to Armstrong World Industries for hosting this incredible day. We left Friday inspired and motivated to continue building bridges across differences and strengthening our community.

When I went through Leadership Lancaster in 2000, one of the many things that made my experience so special was that our Executive Director, Nancy Neff, took each participant out for coffee and conversation. I remember vividly sitting in a booth across from Nancy. I was a young leader, and I was nervous. Nancy sat and held space. I shared with her my dreams and most importantly the things that were holding me back. She in turn shared her story and some much-needed advice. It meant SO MUCH that she invested this personal time. I want to pay this experience forward to our current class. This year we have 59 core class members. Would you be a part of their leadership journey by sponsoring a coffee and conversation? I am suggesting a donation of $10 but you are always welcome to give more! In return, I invite you to write a brief message of encouragement. When I meet for coffee with each participant, I will share which LL alumnus is treating us to coffee, in addition to your message. It’s a great way to connect our amazing alumni network with our current class and it makes a huge impact! Thank you in advance! Click here to donate a coffee and conversation. https://lnkd.in/erVRbZGh #leadership #payitforward Leadership Lancaster

🌍💚 Today is World Mental Health Day 💚🌍 True leadership starts from within. This means caring not only for your team but also for your own mental and emotional well-being. Mental health plays a critical role in developing the resilience, empathy, and self-awareness needed to lead effectively. By prioritizing mental wellness, leaders can foster healthier, more supportive environments that empower everyone to thrive. Make time today to check in on your own mental health and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can create a community of leaders who lead with compassion, understanding, and strength from the inside out. #WorldMentalHealthDay #HolisticLeadership #LeadershipWellness #CommunityLeadership #LeadershipLancaster #LancasterPA

Last Friday, Leadership Lancaster's Core Class took a deep dive into Lancaster County’s unique industries, innovation, and community spirit. Led by Heather Valudes and Molly Crouser from the Lancaster Chamber, the day was packed with exciting tours and insights. The journey began at Clipper Magazine Stadium with a tour led by 2024 Core Class grad Chris Heal! We then headed to Discover Lancaster for an engaging presentation and QNA with Matt Fahnestock as well as a pit stop for delicious treats from Mr. Sticky’s. Next, we explored Webstaurant Store, thanks to Anthony Marcavage and Clark Associates for hosting us and giving an overview of their organization! After lunch, Rachel Hales took us behind the scenes of POD 2 at Rock Lititz and showcased all of the amazing companies and creative ways they engage! In the afternoon, we visited KREIDER FARMS and wrapped up the day with a tour of LCSWMA. Many thanks to our session facilitators, Heather Valudes and Molly Crouser, as well as our hosts for guiding us through this memorable day. Your leadership and expertise helped us experience the very best of Lancaster County! 🌟 It was an unforgettable day showcasing the strength and diversity of our local community. 🙏 #LeadershipLancaster #LancasterCounty #CommunityInnovation

It's not too late to join Leadership Lancaster and Jose Johnson at Southern Market Lancaster this Wednesday from 4:30pm-6:00pm. This event is free and open to the public. We can't wait to see you all there! https://lnkd.in/ehiD-yei

Spice up your leadership journey with "Flavorful Leadership - Savoring Diversity in Every Bite!" Join us at Southern Market on Wednesday, September 25th from 4:30pm-6pm, for an engaging workshop with the incredible Jose Johnson—life coach, corporate consultant, entrepreneur and author of Mindfulness Secrets: 90 Ways in 90 Days. Get ready to explore actionable strategies to build inclusive environments while enjoying a meal of your choice. This is a can't-miss opportunity for leaders at all levels to enhance both professional and personal growth! Admission is free—just grab your favorite dish from Southern Market. Register today using this link! https://lnkd.in/ehiD-yei

🌟 #TBT to last week's unforgettable Opening Retreat Reception at Bert and The Elephant! 🍽️✨ It was an incredible night of connection, laughter, and community as we welcomed the next Best Class Ever— the 2025 Core Class! 🎉 From the delicious food to the amazing vibes, we couldn't have asked for a better start to their leadership journey. 💫 Thanks to everyone who joined us! Stay tuned for exciting updates as this inspiring class makes their mark! #LeadershipLancaster #BestClassEver #2025CoreClass #CommunityLeadership

Join Leadership Lancaster at Southern Market on Wednesday, September 25th, for an exciting Leadership Workshop: "Flavorful Leadership - Savoring Diversity in Every Bite!" Led by the renowned life coach, corporate consultant, and author of Mindfulness Secrets: 90 Ways in 90 Days, Jose Johnson, this dynamic session will equip you with practical strategies to foster inclusion and empower your growth, both personally and professionally. Grab your favorite bite from Southern Market Lancaster and immerse yourself in this unique experience. Attendance is by donation; participants are responsible for their meals. Don't miss out—reserve your spot today via our website! https://lnkd.in/eC65VSbV

What an incredible start to the 2025 Core Class! Last week, 60 leaders came together for a powerful two-day Opening Retreat. From inspiring class introductions (complete with leadership items for our LL Time Capsule!) to diving deep into Holistic Leadership, our participants explored how to balance mental, physical, and emotional wellness in leadership. Huge thanks to facilitators Jose Johnson, Amanda (Kopp) Ruiz M.S., LPC, and Santina Huerta for guiding impactful sessions! Day 2 kicked off with Cat Group selections, where participants chose to support local nonprofits with real-world projects. Plus, they dove into DISC profiles, learning to communicate effectively within their teams, and wrapped up with a mindfulness scavenger hunt at Lancaster County Park – all focused on deeper self-awareness and joyful leadership. The journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to share more! Stay tuned! #LeadershipLancaster #2025CoreClass #LeadersInAction #HolisticLeadership #NonprofitImpact

Yesterday, I started my nine month Leadership Lancaster journey representing Post & Schell, P.C.! #CoreClass2025 #BestClassEver