5th Anniversary Cohort Launches With Values-Based Leadership Training, Expanded Business Partnerships, and a Diverse Network of Local Leaders
LOUISA COUNTY, VA — The Louisa Forward Foundation and the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce the Leadership Louisa Class of 2026, a milestone cohort marking the program’s fifth anniversary. Supported by Founding Sponsor Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) and key partners Walmart Distribution Center #7016, Dominion Energy, Shenandoah Crossing Resort, and Clark Technologies, this year’s class reflects a growing commitment to leadership development and collaboration across the county.
Since its inception in 2022, Leadership Louisa has graduated 58 leaders representing 42 businesses and nonprofit organizations. Participants have completed 10 Community Action Projects (CAPs), explored 15 local venues and operations, and consistently strengthened the leadership pipeline. The 2026 cohort builds on this progress, bringing together professionals from diverse industries including education, skilled trades, public safety, healthcare, technology, tourism, manufacturing, government, real estate, small business, and nonprofit services.
The new class will begin its journey on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Louisa County High School. Superintendent Doug Staley will join the cohort for an energizing kickoff session that introduces participants to the foundation of the program: Values-Based Leadership. In partnership with the nationally recognized InnerWill Leadership Institute, participants will explore how their personal values shape communication, teamwork, and decision-making. The day will include Insights Discovery® communication assessments, networking, and team-building activities that set the tone for six months of intensive learning and connection.
A central part of Leadership Louisa’s impact continues to be its emphasis on values, self-awareness, and trust-building. Through InnerWill’s proven Values-Based Leadership (VBL) framework, participants learn to lead with clarity and purpose, strengthen relationships, navigate conflict effectively, and apply leadership principles that create lasting positive impact. These lessons become particularly significant during the program’s Community Action Project (CAP), which the Class of 2026 will begin developing later this spring. The selected CAP partners will be announced soon.
This year’s class brings together a dynamic mix of emerging supervisors, mid-level managers, experienced professionals, and community advocates whose perspectives and lived experiences will enrich the group’s collective learning. Together, they represent the mission of Leadership Louisa: Building Leaders. Growing Community.
Class of 2026 Participants
Grace Barnes, Shenandoah Crossings Resort Felicia Berry, Blue Ridge Bank Elizabeth Breon, Dominion Energy Stacie Chandler, Chandler & Co Properties, LLC James Fabiano, Louisa County Fire and EMS Crystal Hill, Lloyd's Real Estate, LLC Keli Hughes, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative Cindy King, County of Louisa Sarah Laster, Shenandoah Crossings Resort Caroline Mack, United Bank Chuck Miller, JCM Arbitration Brandon Mills, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative Melissa Oyler, Louisa County Public Schools Dana Poe, Clark Technologies Crystal Robinson, Mann+Hummel Air Filtration Americas Erika Rogers, Abide Village Joseph Voss, Clark Technologies Eliza Wheeler, Piedmont Virginia Community College Lee White, Walmart Distribution Center #7016
Leadership Louisa’s growth is fueled not only by participants, but also by the alumni who remain actively engaged. Program Chair and Class of 2026 President Alexandra Stanley will guide the new cohort with support from graduates who volunteer their time to strengthen each program year. Reflecting on her own leadership journey, she shared: “I’m proud to stand alongside leaders who believe that our community’s strength comes from collaboration, courage, and connection. This program has shown me the power of teamwork and service, and the impact that shared vision can have on our county. Leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about inspiring others, creating opportunities, and investing in Louisa’s future. When Louisa County thrives, we all thrive.”
This year’s program is also made possible through the support of local business sponsors who recognize the importance of strengthening Louisa County’s leadership capacity by sponsoring sessions, tours, hospitality, and professional development resources.
“Rappahannock Electric Cooperative is proud to support Leadership Louisa because strong leadership is essential to a strong local economy,” said Casey Hollins, CCC, Managing Director of Communications & Public Relations at REC. “The program equips participants with practical skills, strategic insight, and meaningful connections that benefit their organizations and the broader business community. As we celebrate the program’s fifth year, we’re encouraged by the growing network of leaders who are prepared to guide Louisa County’s workforce, businesses, and community partners toward a bright and resilient future.”
As the program enters its fifth year, opportunities remain for local businesses and organizations to participate as session hosts, sponsors, or partners throughout the 2026 season. Those interested in engaging in the program may contact Tracy Hale Clark, Executive Director, at 540-967-0944.
About Leadership Louisa
Leadership Louisa is a transformative leadership development program dedicated to building informed, connected, and purpose-driven leaders across Louisa County. Through workshops, business tours, facilitated discussions, and a Community Action Project, participants strengthen their leadership capacity while contributing to the county’s economic, civic, and community well-being. Learn more at LouisaForward.org/LeadershipLouisa
About the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce The Chamber is a member-driven organization that promotes business, strengthens economic and community development, and serves as a catalyst for improving the overall quality of life in Louisa County and the region.
About the Louisa Forward Foundation The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports charitable, educational, and workforce development programs that complement the mission of the Chamber and foster long-term prosperity for Louisa County.