Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana (YLNI) is proud to announce the 19th cohort of its Leadership Institute, welcoming 29 emerging leaders into the program. This year’s participants represent a diverse group of professionals dedicated to enhancing their leadership skills and making a lasting impact in the region.
As YLNI celebrates its 20th anniversary, this milestone year underscores the organization’s commitment to developing and empowering the next generation of leaders. Since its founding, YLNI has played a pivotal role in shaping Northeast Indiana’s leadership landscape, and the Leadership Institute continues to be a cornerstone of that mission.
YLNI’s Leadership Institute empowers young professionals to forge meaningful connections within their community while honing essential career skills. Through interactive sessions, group activities, and personal reflection, participants develop expertise in areas such as effective communication, board stewardship, leadership strengths, workplace dynamics, and workplace inclusion and diversity. This comprehensive program spans four months, including a kick-off event, eight all-day workshops, and a celebratory graduation.
“We are thrilled to welcome this exceptional group of leaders into the 19th Leadership Institute,” said Kristin Conley, Board Vice President. “As YLNI marks two decades of developing and retaining emerging leaders, this cohort represents the future of our community. Their passion and commitment will help shape the next chapter of Northeast Indiana’s growth.”
The program kicks off on February 13 with an opening retreat, setting the stage for months of learning, networking, and collaboration. Throughout the program, participants will engage in sessions covering key topics such as civic engagement, professional development, and inclusive leadership. The institute will conclude with a graduation ceremony recognizing their accomplishments and commitment to leadership in Northeast Indiana.
Since its inception, the YLNI Leadership Institute has empowered hundreds of professionals, many of whom have gone on to serve in influential roles across business, nonprofit, and government sectors. The 2025 cohort continues this tradition of excellence, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the future of our community.
Meet the 2025 YLNI Leadership Institute Cohort:
- AiJana'e Hardy, Three Rivers FCU
- Anna Freels, Erin's House
- April Acker, Parkview Health
- Brittney Remesnik, American Red Cross
- Chase Gibson, NEI
- Claire Chenel, Indiana Tech
- Conner Wheeler, Don Ayres Honda
- Dale Kosan Jr., Parkview Health
- Danae Morgan, Sweetwater Sound
- Edwin Chow, Summit City Climbing
- Elizabeth Adams, Indiana Tech
- Ellen Pruett, Michelin NA
- Erica Woodward, Department of Veterans Affairs
- Erika Rockey, University of Saint Francis
- Jennifer Hornberger, Parkview Health
- Jessica Tartaglia, Iris Family Support Center
- Jordan Dippel, Indiana Tech
- Justin DeFields, Elevatus Architecture
- Kammi McGill, Parkview Health
- Laura Cruz, NEI
- Lauren Widenhofer, Turnstone
- Lydia Harris, Visit Fort Wayne
- Mai Intanant, Franklin Electric
- Meg Underwood, Self-Employed
- Reena Ramos, ACRES Land Trust
- Sam Schaust, Elevatus Architecture
- Samantha Tata, Three Rivers FCU
- Sarah Ridenour, Parkview Health
- Sarah Weiss, Benchmark Human Services
Join us for our free Hot Spot event on Thursday, March 20, at 5:00 PM at The Venue at Charlie’s Place to connect and network with this year’s Leadership Institute class!
For more information about YLNI Leadership Development, visit https://www.ylni.org/leadership-development.
You May Also Like
The Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana (YLNI) Leadership Institute welcomed its newest class of emerging leaders on March 3.
The Ignite Institute is a two-year summer program where we immerse students in the world of entrepreneurship and the possibilities available to them to impact the world. Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana (YLNI), program host, has partnered with Founders Spark to put together this program. This was made possible by a grant from the Foellinger Foundation.
The Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana (YLNI) Leadership Institute welcomed its newest class of emerging leaders on Wednesday night. Now in its 15th year, YLNI’s Leadership Institute connects young professionals with their peers and their community as they advance in their career skills.