Leadership Las Vegas - Class of 2026 Yearbook

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LETTERS OF CONGRATULATIONS

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION AND 2026 LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

LEADERSHIP HALL OF FAME HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

LEADERSHIP LAS VEGAS CLASS OF 2026 GRADUATES

MANY THANKS

TO OUR LEADERSHIP LAS VEGAS CLASS OF 2026

GRADUATION SPONSORS

LETTER OF CONGRATULATIONS

Dear Leadership Las Vegas Class of 2026,

Congratulations on reaching this remarkable milestone as graduates of Leadership Las Vegas. As the Class of 2026, the “Goats,” you have distinguished yourselves through resilience, engagement, and a genuine commitment to strengthening our community.

Over the past ten months, you have not only explored the issues shaping Southern Nevada, but also challenged perspectives, asked important questions, and leaned into meaningful dialogue. You have built a foundation of knowledge and relationships that positions you to lead with purpose and perspective.

What sets this program apart is not just what you have learned, but how you will apply it. Each of you now carries a deeper understanding of our region’s complexities and a responsibility to stay engaged, seek collaboration, and champion solutions that move our community forward. The connections you have formed are powerful. This network of peers, now part of a broader Leadership Las Vegas alumni community, will continue to open doors, spark ideas, and support your leadership journey for years to come.

We are honored to welcome you into this legacy of leaders who are shaping the future of Southern Nevada. Your voice, your vision, and your leadership matter.

We celebrate your achievement and look forward to all that you will accomplish.

Beth Sewald ’17 President & CEO

Chamber

Nelson-Kraft ‘99 President

LETTER OF CONGRATULATIONS

Dear Class of 2026, aka The GOATs:

Congratulations. Today is more than a graduation; it is the beginning of your next chapter as leaders, advocates, and changemakers for Southern Nevada.

As the Goats, you have embraced a fitting symbol. Goats are known for their resilience, determination, and ability to navigate difficult terrain while continuing to climb higher. Throughout this journey, you have demonstrated those same qualities, leaning into new perspectives, challenging assumptions, asking difficult questions, and building authentic relationships that will extend far beyond this program.

Leadership Las Vegas was never just about learning more about our region. It is about understanding the role each of you can play in shaping its future. Over these past months, you have gained insight into our community, but perhaps more importantly, you have gained a network of peers and lifelong connections who share a commitment to making Southern Nevada stronger. This experience was made possible through the support of an extraordinary community. We extend our sincere gratitude to the sponsors, volunteers, facilitators, and Life Journey leaders who generously shared their time, expertise, and passion to make this program so impactful.

A very special thank you goes to our Curriculum Co-Chairs, Elizabeth Hunterton and John Krieger, whose dedication, countless hours, and unwavering commitment helped create an exceptional experience for the Class of 2026.

Today, we proudly welcome you into the Leadership Las Vegas alumni network. But this is not a finish line, it is a launch point. The relationships you have built, the lessons you have learned, and the perspectives you have gained now become tools to help lead our community forward.

Southern Nevada needs leaders willing to step up, stay engaged, and continue climbing.

Congratulations again, Class of 2026. We cannot wait to see where your journey takes you next.

Keep Climbing,

Mullin ‘10 Chairman Leadership Las Vegas Council

Clarke ‘007 Executive Director Vegas Chamber Leadership Foundation

LETTER FROM CURRICULUM CO-CHAIRS

Elizabeth Hunterton ’19 & John Krieger ‘20

To Our Beloved GOAT Tribe,

As our ten-month journey together comes to an end, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude We are deeply proud of, and thankful for, the bonds we ’ ve built as the Leadership Las Vegas Class of 2026

We felt it at Gateway This is a uniquely special class When our mascot was revealed, you didn’t just embrace the GOAT, you turned it into a standard It became an expectation of excellence in how you showed up leaned in and supported one another You embodied greatness in every way

You’ve been Truthful, willing to be seen and received as your authentic selves You’ve been Resilient meeting challenges head-on and growing stronger through every peak and valley You’ve been Impactful, never missing an opportunity to make something or someone better You’ve been Brave, trying new things, learning new lessons and committing to growth And perhaps most powerfully you ’ ve led with Empathy You listened with open hearts, honored different perspectives, and created space for vulnerability and authenticity

This is what transformed a room full of strangers into a chosen family

Being part of your journey has been one of our greatest honors While you trusted us to help guide the experience it was your connection, compassion, and commitment that made it unforgettable

As you step into your next chapter as alumni carry your greatness forward and give it generously to those around you and to this community we love so dearly

We will forever believe powerfully in the power of you Thank you for letting us be a small part of your journey We are infinitely better for it

With hearts full of GOAT Gratitude and Love

Elizabeth and John

Chairs, Leadership Las Vegas Class of 2026

“We are consumed by pockets of joy and gratitude, because in a universe of incalculability and the vastness of time, for a few moments we were together ” Jessica’s dad, shared by Punam Mathur

MISSION STATEMENT

LEADERSHIP LAS VEGAS IS DEDICATED TO DEVELOPING LEADERS COMMITTED TO IMPROVING THE COMMUNITY THROUGH SERVICE.

PROGRAM GOALS

• Enhance leadership skills and qualities in participants, leading to creative and insightful community solutions.

• Ensure broad community future leadership by recruiting emerging leaders with diverse socio-economic and professional backgrounds.

• Motivate and encourages participants to assume leadership roles in community affairs.

PARTICIPANT BENEFITS

• Develop awareness of the community by examining the major systems that contribute to patterns of life in the city.

• Join a network of leaders committed to accepting responsibility for the community’s shared concerns.

• Gain skills to prepare for future involvement as a leader in key community-oriented, decision-making positions.

At the end of the Leadership Las Vegas experience, graduates will have developed a network of relationships throughout the community to bring a fresh, broadened perspective to issues facing Las Vegas.

We challenge the class to choose how they can make a difference, build other leaders, and make a long-term commitment to the community.

VEGAS CHAMBER LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION

No matter the challenge, changing the world starts with cultivating great leaders who are informed, engaged, passionate, and interconnected. That is the mission of the Leadership Foundation of Greater Las Vegas – to develop and move leaders to action for the betterment of our community. As a 501(c) (3) charitable nonprofit in affiliation with the Vegas Chamber, the Leadership Foundation is the only organization in Southern Nevada dedicated full-time to preparing and engaging leaders at every level so they can positively address challenges and create a bright future for the region. Its programs included Leadership Las Vegas, Leadership Advance, Focus Las Vegas, Vegas Young Professionals, the Public Policy Leadership Series, EDGE, and Access Las Vegas.

The success of the Leadership Foundation and its programs depends largely on the financial generosity of our community’s corporate and philanthropic leaders who support a variety of programming, events, and scholarships. We are deeply appreciative for their ongoing support.

VEGAS CHAMBER LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Lori Nelson-Kraft ‘99, Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix

Ryder Donohue ‘10, Treasurer BNY Mellon

Gordon Absher ‘09, Secretary St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation

Michael Crome ‘19 Las Vegas Raiders

Dulcinea Rongavilla ‘10 Cragin & Pike Insurance

Mary Beth Sewald ‘17 Vegas Chamber

Terry Shirey Nevada State Bank

Scott Voeller ‘18

Touch Squared Marketing

Lori Wilkinson ‘17

Brown & Brown Insurance

Cara Clarke ‘007, Executive Director

LEADERSHIP LAS VEGAS COUNCIL 2026:

Council Chair

Tim Mullin ‘10

Immediate Past Council Chair

Mike Disbennett ‘14

Curriculum Chair

Elizabeth Hunterton ‘19

Curriculum Co-Chair

John Krieger ‘20

Immediate Past Curriculum Chair

Travis Turner ’19

Selection Chair

Tami Miramontes ‘08

Selection Co-Chairs

Elizabeth Delgado ‘21

Kelii Chock ‘22

Brand Communication Co-Chairs

Connie Anderson ‘22

Tya Mathis-Coleman ‘18

Sean Parker ‘18

Alumni Communication Co-Chairs

Rina Foster ‘23

Chuck Ramey ‘20

Alumni Community Service Co-Chairs

Jessica Goldstein ‘24

Pietra Sardelli ‘22

Alumni Events Co-Chairs

Vandana Bhalla ‘17

Lauren Westerfield-Boberg ‘23

40th Anniversary Celebration Chairs

Sandi Milton ‘21

Greta Seidman ‘11

Ambassador Co-Chairs

Krista Darnold ‘05

Kevin Smith ‘21

Scholarship Co-Chairs

Cheryl Brewster ‘22

Shalimar Cabrera ‘21

Executive Director, Foundation

Cara Clarke ‘007

Program Manager Lisa Gough

GATEWAY

SEPTEMBER 25-27, 2025

CurriculumChair

Elizabeth Hunterton ‘19

Curriculum Co-Chair

John Kreiger ‘20

Chiefs of Volunteers

Sandi Milton ‘21

Jordan Moore ‘25

Life Journey Facilitators

Mike Bailey ‘25

Shan Bates ‘17

Colleen Birch ‘17

Adam Bravo ‘20

Tara Campbell ‘25

Branden Clarkson ‘23

Joe Coe ‘22

Krista Darnold ‘05

Elizabeth Delgado ‘21

Emily Ku ‘22

Felicia Lindquist ‘19

Paul Mangual ‘17

Joe Peeples ‘22

Tonika Quick ‘24

Edgar Rodriguez ‘24

Doa Ross ‘20

John Starkey ‘18

Adam Thurgood ‘19

Paul Vautrinot ‘20

Lauren WesterfieldBoberg ‘23

Nellis Operations

Eric Ballew ‘24

Desiree Broussard ‘25

Kelii Chock ‘22

Jim Chittenden ‘16

Cameron Dadgar ‘23

Stan Duvall ‘25

Kevin James ‘20

Edgar Rodriguez ‘24

Casey Tidgwell ‘25

SIMSOC

Gordon Absher ‘09

Justin Anderson ‘14

Sara Boucher ‘20

Jessica Goldstein ‘24

SESSION DAY COMMITTEES

Andrew Magness ‘17

Jennifer Mayon ‘14

Greta Seidman ‘11

Other Volunteers

Jimmy Durbin ‘23

Alaina Cowley ‘12

HISTORY & THE ARTS

OCTOBER 17, 2025

Co-Chairs

Joe Kent ‘25

Edgar Rodriguez ‘24

Kelli Vaz ‘16

Committee

Micheal Bailey ‘25

Eric Ballew ‘24

Cheryl Brewster ‘22

Amanda Chenoweth ‘25

Terry Chi ‘21

Alexia Cooper ‘22

Shaquille Cruz ‘25

Krista Darnold ‘05

Shipra De ‘25

Chris Ford ‘25

Jesica Goldstein ‘24

Ted Hartwell ‘11

Jason Jorjorian ‘21

Stacy Kreuziger ‘21

Oliver Lovat ‘18

Linda Perez ‘21

George Petty ‘25

Pietra Sardelli ‘22

Shannon Steiner ‘16

Lauri Thompson ‘10

Heather Torgersen ‘24

COMMUNITY SAFETY NET

NOVEMBER 7, 2025

Co-Chairs

Robert Banghart ‘23

Jim Berchtold ‘05

Rick Neal ‘22

Lisa Segler ‘18

Lauren WesterfieldBoberg ‘23

Committee

Melissa Arias ‘22

Micheal Bailey ‘25

Eric Ballew ‘24

Monica Beasley ‘04

Latoya Bembry ‘25

Shaquille Cruz ‘25

Trinh Dang-Mai ‘21

Rachel Donn ‘25

Tracy Duran ‘25

Rachel Flanigan ‘24

Geoffrey Garland ‘23

Lizette Guillen ‘25

Jennifer Inaba ‘22

Joseph Kent ‘25

Tya Mathis-Coleman ‘18

Grant McCandless ‘23

Sandi Milton ‘21

Cory Nelson ‘21

Linda Perez ‘21

George Petty ‘25

Michael Pizzi ‘24

Sarah Quinn ‘24

Jessie Sanchez ‘25

Marissa Shoop ‘25

Shanice Stevens ‘23

Emmarose Terry ‘25

Evelyn Valencia ‘25

GOVERNMENT, POLITICS & MEDIA

DECEMBER 5, 2025

Co-Chairs

Colleen McCarthy ‘19

Sandi Milton ‘21

Jordan Moore ‘25

Charles Ramey ‘21

Committee

Micheal Bailey ‘25

Eric Ballew ‘24

Latoya Bembry ‘25

Shannon Brown ‘25

Lisa Chatham ‘25

Terry Chi ‘21

Shaquille Cruz ‘25

Sallie Doebler ‘14

Rachel Donn ‘25

Rina Foster ‘23

Andy Kao ‘24

John Krieger ‘20

Emily Ku ‘22

Christine Maddela ‘25

Grant McCandless ‘23

Sally Moore ‘24

Paul Moradkhan ‘12

Linda Perez ‘21

George Petty ‘25

Edgar Rodriguez ‘24

Jessica Saunders ‘24

Marissa Shoop ‘25

Izack Tenorio ‘24

Emmarose Terry ‘25

Heather Torgersen ‘24

Evelyn Valencia ‘25

Jay Vickers ‘25

Kyle Zuelke ‘25

HEALTH

JANUARY 16, 2026

Co-Chairs

Trinh Dang-Mai ‘21

Brian Knudsen ‘13

Lisa Santwer ‘13

Committee

Micheal Bailey ‘25

Sarah Baker ‘25

Eric Ballew ‘24

Latoya Bembry ‘25

Cheryl Brewster ‘22

Shaquille Cruz ‘25

Jessica Fields ‘25

Jessica Goldstein ‘24

Sanjay Mahant ‘25

Deborah Makiri ‘13

Alexis McCurdy ‘25

Sally Moore ‘24

George Petty ‘25

Tonika Quick ‘24

Charles Ramey ‘20

Susil Sivaraman ‘25

Heather Torgersen ‘24

Nichole Wagner ‘24

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

FEBRUARY 20, 2026

Co-Chairs

Brandon Clarkson ‘23

Alayne Opie ‘25

Binu Palal ‘23

Committee

Micheal Bailey ‘25

Eric Ballew ‘24

Robert Banghart ‘23

Shaquille Cruz ‘25

Rachel Donn ‘25

Jessica Goldstein ‘24

Andy Kao ‘24

Jamie Malloy ‘25

Roxann Mccoy ‘21

Sally Moore ‘24

Randy Myers ‘25

George Petty ‘25

Edgar Rodriguez ‘24

Jessica Saunders ‘24

Marissa Shoop ‘25

Casey Tidgewell ‘25

Kelli Vaz ‘16

Kristina Wildeveld ‘02

SESSION DAY COMMITTEES

EDUCATION

MARCH 6, 2026

Co-Chairs

Andrew Magness ‘17

Melinda Malone ‘24

Sean Parker ‘18

Brooke Wheatley ‘23

Committee

Shameeda Abdul-Mumin ‘25

Micheal Bailey ‘25

Eric Ballew ‘24

Sebern Coleman ‘25

Shaquille Cruz ‘25

Rachel Donn ‘25

Tracy Duran ‘25

Jessica Fields ‘25

Chris Ford ‘25

Rina Foster ‘23

Jessica Goldstein ‘24

Ted Hartwell ‘11

Christine Maddela ‘25

Sanjay Mahant ‘25

Grant McCandless ‘23

Cicely Morgan ‘19

Brianne Niemic ‘25

Linda Perez ‘21

George Petty ‘25

Michael Pizzi ‘24

Lisa Segler ‘17

Greta Seidman ‘11

Marissa Shoop ‘25

Shanice Stevens ‘23

Heather Torgersen ‘24

Evelyn Valencia ‘25

Jay Vickers ‘25

BUSINESS

APRIL 10, 2026

Chairs

Jason Jorjorian ‘21

Joe Peeples ‘22

Co-Chairs

Monica Beasley ‘04

Emmanuel Epino ‘22

TaChelle Lawson ‘24

Committee

Justin Anderson ‘14

Micheal Bailey ‘25

Jacqueline Bailey ‘25

Monica Beasley ‘04

Monifa Caines ‘25

Tara Campbell ‘25

Lisa Chatham ‘25

Ulyana Chung ‘17

Shaquille Cruz ‘25

Sallie Doebler ‘14

Stan Duvall ‘25

Emmanuel Epino ‘22

Rina Foster ‘23

Andy Kao ‘24

Emily Ku ‘22

TaChelle Lawson ‘25

Chad Leavitt ‘17

Christine Maddela ‘25

Sanjay Mahant ‘25

Sandi Milton ‘21

Kim Nehls ‘02

Brianne Niemic ‘25

Alayne Opie ‘25

Lauri Perdue ‘22

Linda Perez ‘21

George Petty ‘25

Michael Pizzi ‘24

Brett Primack ‘06

Edgar Rodriguez ‘24

Jessica Saunders ‘24

Joyce Smith ‘19

Casey Tidgewell ‘25

Kelli Vaz ‘16

Jay Vickers ‘25

Jennifer Wilson ‘24

GAMING, TOURISM & ENTERTAINMENT

MAY 8, 2026

Co-Chairs

Joe Coe ‘22

Marcus Lidey ‘20

Alan Walker ‘20

Committee

Shameeda AbdulMumin ‘25

Jacqueline Bailey ‘25

Micheal Bailey ‘25

Eric Ballew ‘24

Monica Beasley ‘04

Wanda Blair ‘22

Shannon Brown ‘25

Monifa Caines ‘25

Lisa Chatham ‘25

Shaquille Cruz ‘25

Rachel Donn ‘25

Jimmy Durbin ‘23

Jessica Goldstein ‘24

Ted Hartwell ‘11

Michelle Hsu ‘24

Tashina Lazcano ‘25

Oliver Lovat ‘18

Sanjay Mahant ‘25

Paul Mangual ‘17

Lisa Melmed ‘22

Sandi Milton ‘21

Brianne Niemic ‘25

Linda Perez ‘21

George Petty ‘25

Michael Printy ‘24

Emmarose Terry ‘25

Lauri Thompson ‘10

Casey Tidgewell ‘25

Kelli Vaz ‘16

Jay Vickers ‘25

Lauren WesterfieldBoberg ‘23

Jennifer Wilson ‘24

ENGAGEMENT DAY

JUNE 5, 2026

Co-Chairs

Elizabeth Hunterton ‘19

John Krieger ‘20

Committee

Kelii Chock ‘22

Edgar Rodriguez ‘24

Doa Ross ‘20

Shameeda Abdul-Mumin ‘25

Karne Sheets ‘25

Jordan Moore ‘25

Pietra Sardelli ‘22

Sylvia Wolf ‘19

MANY THANKS

TO OUR SPONSORS

LEADERSHIP LAS VEGAS CLASS OF 2026

GRADUATION SPONSORS:

PROGRAM SPONSORS:

RECRUITMENT MIXER SPONSOR:

LEADERSHIP LAS VEGAS HALL OF FAME 2026 INDUCTEE

A Leadership Journey for the History Books: Hall of Fame Honoree

Yvonne “Empress” Gresnick ‘007

Congratulations to Yvonne Gresnick ‘007 who has been selected as the 2026 inductee into the Leadership Las Vegas Hall of Fame.

For more than 20 years, Yvonne has been a constant force behind one of Leadership Las Vegas’ most memorable experiences: Gateway. She has played a key role in shaping the experience, ensuring each class not only understands the importance of the Nellis mission, but also connects with the people behind it. Her contributions go far beyond logistics or programming, instead they are rooted in purpose, connection, and a deep belief in the power of shared understanding.

“I am truly humbled and deeply honored by the recognition,” Yvonne shared. “To be recognized for something I’ve always genuinely enjoyed makes it even more meaningful.”

At the heart of her commitment is a passion for the mission of the United States Air Force and specifically the critical role of Nellis Air Force Base. Through Leadership Las Vegas, Yvonne has used the program as a bridge—helping foster understanding and collaboration between the military and the local community.

For each Leadership class, Gateway is an experience that brings participants inside a world many would never otherwise see, and for Yvonne, that experience has always been about building respect, understanding, and long-term connection between the military and the community it serves.

“As goes Nellis, so goes the Air Force,” she notes, but just as importantly, the success of that mission depends on strong community support. Helping foster that connection has been, in her words, “a fun, rewarding, and fulfilling journey.”

Those who have gone through the program know that what makes Gateway unforgettable isn’t just the access—it’s the people. Yvonne has spent years ensuring each class not only learns about the mission but meets the individuals who make it possible. From military leaders to civilian professionals, she has helped bring the work to life and deepen the experience for hundreds of alumni.

Her impact has also been cultural—introducing traditions, moments, and shared experiences that have become part of Leadership Las Vegas lore, strengthening bonds across classes and generations.

Yvonne is quick to share credit with those who have supported her along the way. She expressed gratitude to her family, fellow alumni, and the many individuals within the Nellis community who have contributed to the program’s success over the years. She also acknowledged key partners and collaborators who have helped sustain and evolve the experience for future classes.

But perhaps her greatest contribution is the mindset she leaves with every class and every alumnus: stay connected. “Leadership Las Vegas truly is the gift that keeps on giving,” she says. “No matter how our careers or lives evolve, being part of this community continues to create opportunities for growth and connection.”

Her message to those who may have stepped away is simple: Come back. The doors are open, and the impact is still waiting.

Yvonne’s induction into the Hall of Fame is a celebration of the kind of leadership that quietly shapes a community over time. Through her work, she has strengthened the relationship between Southern Nevada’s civic and military leaders, enriched the Leadership Las Vegas experience, and created a legacy that will continue to influence generations to come.

Congratulations to Yvonne on this well-deserved honor.

LEADERSHIP LAS VEGAS HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

HISTORY

The Leadership Hall of Fame was created in 2004 to recognize outstanding Leadership Las Vegas Graduates for their commitment and contributions to the community.

2025

COLLEEN BIRCH ‘17

2024

GORDON ABSHER ‘09 2023

ROBERT TORRES ‘15

2022

JENNIFER MAYON HOFFMAN ‘14

2020/2021

BRIAN RICE ’09

2019

MARK HINUEBER ’05

2018

TYRONE THOMPSON ‘03

2017

KIMBERLY MALLOY ‘00

2016

TODD PALUMBO ‘007

2015

FLORENCE M.E. ROGERS ‘04

2014

GINA GAVAN ‘06

2013

RONALD KLINE, M.D. ‘04

2012

ALAN M. DISKIN ‘03

2011

DARCY K. NEIGHBORS ‘03

2010

SHANNON WEST ‘99 2009

PUNAM MATHUR ’90 2008

HOWARD L. SKOLNIK ’95

2007

GINA POLOVINA ’98

2006

VALERIE WIENER ’90

2005

JOHN WILCOX ’92

2004

HENRY HOOGLAND ’89

CLASS OF 2026

JANELLE ADDIS

Fulfillment Fund Las Vegas

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is the curious human habit of pretending authority lives in job titles while quietly proving, every single day, that it actually lives in anyone who chooses to affect people, shape outcomes, or nudge the world, even slightly, forward.

JACOB ARFA

Caesars Entertainment

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is grounded in service, humility, and empowerment. It provides clarity, purpose, and support while removing obstacles, allowing teams to “steer the boat” with confidence and build a culture of innovation, growth, and shared responsibility.

JJ BEGNAL

Nellis Air Force Base

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Brene Brown says, “I’m not here to be right- but to get it right”- and I feel that is leadership.

DR. JANNA BERNSTEIN ROGERS

College of Southern Nevada/University of Nevada, Las Vegas

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is bringing people together around shared purpose with authenticity and empathy. It’s standing on the shoulders of those who shaped me while also courageously growing. It’s building bridges, uplifting others, and creating space to thrive.

JAMISON BROOKS

Findlay Automotive

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership means aligning people around a shared mission and driving results.

ROBERT BULMER Western Alliance Bank

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is the ability to calmly accept responsibility, even as you are secretly opening three tabs to figure out what to do.

MICHAEL CAREY Pet Madness

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is to use your own brain and heart instead of depending on ChatGPT.

MOLLY CASTANO Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is about vision and accountability. It requires listening more than talking, acting with intention, and empowering others to do their best work every day.

CLASS OF 2026

BRIAN CATLETT

Snell & Wilmer

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is not about titles or authority. It is about serving others, empowering people around you, and helping them reach their full potential.

JEFF CLARK

Las Vegas Metropolitan Department

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Character, integrity, and compassion. Never being too big to do the small things that need to be done.

MEGAN COMFORT

Nevada State Bank

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Being a strong support system and advocate, curating a space that inspires others to stretch, reach new potential and capabilities.

MATT COOK

Cragin & Pike

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Acting with honesty and aligning actions with words to build credibility.

MANDY CORDIA

The Kindness Cause

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is the courage to care out loud, the willingness to go first, and the commitment to lift others as we rise.

KELLY L. CROMPTON

City of Las Vegas

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

True leaders don’t create followers; they inspire courage in others to lead.

ANTHONY CURRY

Charter School Law Service

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is accepting blame in failure and distributing credit in success.

MATTHEW DANG

The LGBTQ+ Center of Las Vegas

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leaders urge us to serve, help, reach, build, and touch. They are steeped in trust, accountability, boldness, and kindness. They pull in friends, colleagues, and neighbors. They ask for feedback and wisdom. They walk forward with hope.

CLASS OF 2026

LAURA DIEKEMA

Las Vegas Raiders

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is grounded in service and trust and is built through open communication and consistency. Lean into kindness and compassion to strengthen relationships and encourage others to bring their most authentic selves forward.

ARIELLE EDWARD

R&R Partners

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is serving with humility, uplifting others, and advocating for causes that move communities forward.

DR. BENJAMIN FEINSTEIN

Vegas Vista Academy

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

To me, being a leader means creating, cultivating, and maintaining a safe space where people feel a strong sense of ownership & agency, and are free to take risks aligned with our mission that move all stakeholders towards realizing our shared vision.

JENNIFER FRASER

Clark County Public Defender

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is compassion, understanding, fairness, and knowing listening is just as powerful as being the loudest voice in the room.

JASMINE FREEMAN

City of Las Vegas - Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is a choice. Stay open minded, step up, create connections, and leave every space better than you found it. Lead with curiosity, heart, and integrity. Your title does not make you a leader; your actions do. Be worth following.

Intermountain Health

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is being there when it matters, with humility and a servant mindset. It is asking questions, listening, and removing barriers. Caring deeply and making connections builds trust, resulting in outcomes that lead to growth and well-being.

MARIA JOSE GATTI

MGM Resorts international

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

A person’s ability to grow, coach a team of people while ensuring successful outcomes for the business.

TREY HAMILTON

United States Air Force

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership means owning outcomes, not authority. Leaders reduce uncertainty, align efforts, and protect momentum. Creating environments for success through trust and pushing progress despite risk.

CLASS OF 2026

JAMIE HATFIELD

Crossroads of Southern Nevada and Shine A Light

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership looks like service, humility, courage, and follow-through. It’s turning pain into purpose, giving people dignity instead of directives, and leaving every room better than you found it.

DR. MICHAEL HERENICK

City of Las Vegas - Office of Strategic Services

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership, to me, is intentional engagement, self-awareness, and empathy. It’s how you show up, the messages you send, and how you lift others up. When you lead with empathy, you build trust, perspective, and stronger relationships.

SIERRA HERNANDEZ

Sierra Nevada Strategies

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership means being thoughtful and inclusive, lifting others up, and having the grit to face challenges, learn from feedback, and keep growing.

RYAN T. HOLDEN

Concord Group

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is articulating your vision, then supporting and empowering people to achieve that vision.

LATOYA JOHNSON CARE Complex

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is intentional influence; showing up with vision, integrity, and action to create impact, while elevating others, in order to build something bigger than yourself.

JEFF JONES CORE, Powered by the Rogers Foundation

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

True Leaders don’t just lean into strength; they naturally combine vision, humility, and heart with their work. Great Leaders don’t just look to achieve results; they grow with others & give others hope. Leaders are what I like to call HOPE DEALERS.

MELVIN KING InspireWorks HR Solutions

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about uplifting people, especially the unheard. True leaders listen, build real relationships, act with fairness and gratitude, and always leave others stronger than they found them.

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is built on empathy, integrity, and experience. It means understanding others, building trust, and supporting growth while achieving results. True leadership inspires resilience and leaves a lasting positive impact.

CLASS OF 2026

ANDREW LANZINO

Michael Rose & Company

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is setting a clear direction people believe in, bringing communities together around shared goals, and turning optimism into collective action through focus and trust.

JULIA LAZARECK

Prison Families Alliance (PFA)

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is guiding others with empathy and compassion, meeting people where they are, and listening without judgment. It means leading by example—modeling integrity, fortitude, and respect—so others feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow.

JENNIFER LEIFER

Clark County School District: Northwest Career & Technical Academy & The GINAS Las Vegas

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is the quiet work of lifting others into their own becoming—serving, seeing, and strengthening the potential they have not yet named.

KRISTINA LOWREY

Bridgebio

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership means leading with courage and modeling integrity. It’s about accountability, empowering, and creating space for others to grow. True leadership requires listening, openness to new ideas, and the humility to continually adapt.

NATASHA MACK Sahara

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is listening, supporting, and creating a culture where individuals feel valued and motivated to do their best. It’s about serving others, clearing obstacles, celebrating progress, and helping every team member realize their potential.

DR. RACQUEL MELSON

College of Southern Nevada

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is the humble practice of listening deeply, partnering authentically, sharing credit generously, owning responsibility fully, and moving people with intention toward a shared vision.

BRANDON MILLS

Total Promotion Company

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is the responsibility to serve first, set the standard through action, and bring others with you toward a shared vision. A leader builds trust, develops people, and creates impact that lasts beyond their own role.

DIJANA MITROVIC

International Trade Administration

U.S. Department of Commerce

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leading with heart in Las Vegas means bridging a global perspective with a local soul, transforming our city of lights into a community of connection and ensuring that while the world watches us, we are looking out for one another.

CLASS OF 2026

MISHON MONTGOMERY

Nevada National Security Sites, Mission Support and Test Services

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is about creating space for people to feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow. It’s curating meaningful experiences that spark growth—and measuring impact by how you elevate those around you.

LATEISHA MORGAN

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is turning vision into measurable impact. It’s building systems that elevate people and strengthen communities. It requires humility, courage, and accountability—serving beyond self so others inherit something stronger than what we found.

MIKE MORGAN

The Boeing Company

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

A leader inspires action, does it with humility, and the good ones are altruistic and moral in their motivation.

SHEREE L PAGE

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is service. It is carrying the weight so others can perform at their best. It’s about building trust through action, holding people accountable, and creating an environment where others feel supported, empowered, and able to succeed.

ROGER PERRY

Professional & Reliable Bartending

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is showing up and taking responsibility by embodying the values you expect of others, setting clear direction, removing friction, and creating the conditions for people to grow and succeed. It’s measured by the success of those you lead.

KYOKI PRUSELA PHILLIPS

Phillips Consulting Services

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

A leader elevates others, makes hard decisions with integrity, and leaves people and systems stronger than they found them.

CAL J. POTTER, IV, ESQ.

Professional Contractor Supply

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is cultivating elite talent, actively serving their drive for excellence, and empowering them through trust and autonomy.

DR. TARA C. RAINES

Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is creating conditions where everyone has real access to opportunity and belonging. It’s sharing power, removing barriers, and growing others so communities can thrive with equity at the center.

CLASS OF 2026

ASHLEY ROBERTSON

MGM Resorts International

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is choosing to be an advocate in any situation you are aware of or present in. It requires the awareness to recognize how your presence, voice, or actions can add value—then taking responsibility to step forward.

NICK SCHNEIDER

Carrara Nevada

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is service to your team, setting the example, being the first to roll up their sleeves and do the hard thing, and empowering your team to not only succeed but grow and shape what future success looks like.

MARILYN SHERMAN

UpFront Presentations

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is modeling what’s possible. It’s not about position or title, but influence. A leader is like an usher in a Las Vegas showroom, illuminating the path for others to move out of the balcony and into their front-row life.

DANIELLE STRONG

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is a privilege and a responsibility to use your passion, purpose and influence to provide a foundation for others to succeed. True leadership is to leave a servant’s legacy.

JOEL TASCA

Greenberg Traurig, LLP

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is selflessly helping to elevate the people around you.

ROBERT TEUTON

Ballard Spahr LLP

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Being and staying engaged, keeping an open ear, understanding before seeking to be understood, bringing people together, and acting when the time comes.

ALEXIS VILLANUEVA

Guild Education

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is service in action. It is understanding a community’s needs, bringing people together, and turning shared responsibility into meaningful, lasting impact.

ETHAN M. WAITTE

US Air Force Warfare Center

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Having the character, competence, and communication skills to enable those around you to maximize their abilities in the accomplishment of common goals.

CLASS OF 2026

DORIAN WARMSLEY

DW Wellness

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is going first. It’s choosing integrity over comfort, growth over ego, and responsibility over blame. It’s becoming the example you once needed.

DR.

NATHANIEL P. WAUGH

King County Metro Transit

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is disciplined service: set direction, steward public trust, translate values into results, and grow others using data, equity, and coalition-building to improve lives.

CELESTE WILLIAMS

HELP of Southern Nevada

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

Leadership is setting a standard in the community through integrity and accountability. It means serving people with dignity and respect, staying people-focused and purpose-driven, and aligning actions with values to positively others.e.

JAMES WYATT

KJB Management Solutions

DEFINITION OF LEADERSHIP:

I believe leadership is simple but not easy. It’s setting a clear vision, having high standards and being willing to get in the trenches with my team when it matters most. Leadership is the decision to serve, sharpen the mission and own the outcome.

The G.O.A.T a standard.

Over the past ten months, you showed the power of being Truthful, Resilient, Impactful, Brave, and Empathetic. You built a TRIBE rooted in trust, authenticity, and connection, transforming a class into a chosen family.

Now, as alumni, you carry forward more than lessons learned. You carry the GOAT legacy. We are endlessly proud of who you are, and even more excited for who you will become.

Our community is stronger because of you. It has been an honor to walk alongside you, because you truly are the G.O.A.T.

With GOAT Gratitude and Love,

E lizabet h and John

Congratulations Coyotes!

Dr. Janna Bernstein

Director, Office of Sponsored Projects College of Southern Nevada

Dr. Raquel Melson

Director, Office of Civic and Cultural Engagement College of Southern Nevada

You empower the next generation of leaders.

"The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails."

Congratulations to Jamison Brooks from all of your friends at Findlay.

We appreciate all you do for the organization.

CONGRATULATIONS

KELLY CROMPTON | JASMINE FREEMAN

MIKE HERENICK

ON YOUR GRADUATION FROM LEADERSHIP LAS VEGAS.

THANK YOU FOR BUILDING COMMUNITY TO MAKE LIFE BETTER FOR ALL OF US.

A division of Zions Bancorporation, N.A. Member FDIC

NEVADA STATE BANK podcast series THROUGH the DOOR

The Insider’s Perspective on Running a Business

From scaling a startup to optimizing operations, the “THROUGH THE DOOR” podcast provides Nevada businesses with invaluable strategies for navigating the ever-evolving landscape in Nevada. Hosted by Megan Comfort, Executive Vice President, Director of Business Banking at Nevada State Bank, this insightful podcast features candid conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs and industry leaders as they share their triumphs and challenges to help Nevada businesses navigate their journey to success.

Learn more at nsbank.com/podcast LISTEN. LEARN. SUBSCRIBE.

Megan Comfort | Executive Vice President Director of Business Banking

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When you surround yourself with inspiring people, they make life better. Like Megan Comfort and the Leadership Las Vegas Class of 2026. It’s our pleasure to recognize their efforts to make our community shine. Congratulations!

Fontainebleau Las Vegas congratulates the Leadership Las Vegas Class of 2026. We celebrate your vision and commitment to our community.

We are especially proud of Danielle Strong, Vice President of Catering & Events, on her graduation. Her dedication to excellence continues to elevate our resort and inspire those around her. We look forward to all you will continue to accomplish.

Congratulations Class of 2026!

You are the promise of what’s next—bright minds, bold hearts, and boundless possibility. At Howard Hughes, we believe community is more than a place—it’s a shared future we build together.

Today, we celebrate you. Tomorrow, you shape what comes next. Here’s to every step forward, and every win we create as one.

On behalf of the NNSS, Congratulations to the G.O.A.T.s, Especially our very own

We celebrate you today and look forward to seeing the positive impact that you will make in our community tomorrow.

Greenberg Traurig congratulates this year’s Leadership Las Vegas graduating class. especially our very own Joel Tasca. Your dedication and commitment to community are helping shape a stronger Southern Nevada.

Congrats Matthew Dang

LGBT Center of Southern Nevada - Chief of Staff President and Founder of SNAPIQS

Matthew, congratulations on your graduation from Leadership Las Vegas. Your leadership reflects intention, compassion, and a deep commitment to serving the community. To us, you are not only a respected leader, but also a valued colleague and trusted friend. Your ability to bring people together, uplift those around you, and lead with both purpose and integrity sets you apart. We are incredibly proud of you and look forward to the continued impact of your leadership.

Congratulations again on this well-deserved achievement.

Congratulations, Paula Freund

Congratulations to Paula Freund on graduating from the Leadership Las Vegas program.

Your commitment to learning, collaboration, and service reflects the kind of leadership that strengthens our communities.

We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with you.

Congratulations

On behalf of Crossroads of Southern Nevada and the Shine A Light Foundation, we are incredibly proud to recognize Jamie Hatfield on their graduation from the Las Vegas Leadership Program

Jamie serves as a Community Engagement Assistant Supervisor at Crossroads of Southern Nevada and as the Director of Program Implementation at Shine A Light Foundation, where she consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to service, leadership, and community impact

Across both roles, she has shown a unique ability to connect systems, build partnerships, and translate vision into meaningful action that benefits individuals and families throughout Southern Nevada

Throughout her journey in Leadership Las Vegas, Jamie has continued to grow as a leader, gaining valuable insight into the systems that shape our community while strengthening the skills needed to lead with purpose and influence.

This achievement reflects not only her dedication to personal and professional growth but also her passion for creating lasting change within the community we serve.

We are honored to stand alongside Jamie as she reaches this milestone, and we are confident that she will continue to lead with integrity, collaboration, and heart

Congratulations, Jamie, on this well-deserved achievement

Congratulations to Arielle Edwards on her graduation from Leadership Las Vegas Class of 2026.

Arielle Edwards R&R Partners Community Affairs Director

Arielle’s graduation reflects a strong investment in the future of Southern Nevada. Her experience builds a deeper connection to the dynamics that shape our communities.

Arielle’s commitment to service shines through her efforts with The Just One Project and her broader work advocating for the long-term well-being of the local community.

Change starts with leaders like you.

Cragin & Pike would like to congratulate our Executive Vice President Matt Cook and Leadership Las Vegas “Class of 2026 GOATS”

Cragin & Pike would like to congratulate our Executive Vice President Matt Cook and Leadership Las Vegas “Class of 2026 GOATS”