Applications available for Leadership Fort Wayne Class of 2027

Program equips participants to lead in the workplace and the community

Leadership Fort Wayne (LFW), the region’s premier leadership development program, is now accepting applications for its 2027 cohort. This highly regarded program is designed to equip and empower participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead effectively. Applications will be accepted through Monday, October 5, 2026, at 12:00 PM.

Why Leadership Fort Wayne?

Over the course of nine months, participants in the LFW program engage in a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop leadership capabilities and community awareness.

The program includes:

• Keynote Presentations and Panel Discussions: Participants gain insights from local leaders on the pressing issues and emerging opportunities in our community.
• Leadership Training: Participants focus on the most relevant skills great leaders need to successfully lead.
• Community Action Projects: Hands-on projects that allow participants to directly impact local organizations and initiatives.
• Visits to Nonprofit Agencies: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the operations and missions of local nonprofits.
• Personality and Talent Assessments: Understand and enhance your leadership style and strengths.
• Board Internship Opportunities: Serve a 6- to 12-month internship on the board of a local nonprofit, putting your leadership skills to practical use.

A Legacy of Leadership

Since its founding in 1983, Leadership Fort Wayne has been a cornerstone in developing the community’s future leaders. In 2014, LFW merged with Greater Fort Wayne Inc., expanding its reach and impact. To date, the program has graduated over 1,700 individuals who have gone on to lead in various sectors, including arts, government, economic development, and more.

Notable alumni include:

• Steve Corona (Inaugural Class of 1983), Executive Director, Latinos Count
• Patti Hays (Class of 2001), CEO, WindSwell Foundation
• Bernie Beier (Class of 2007): Retired Director, Allen County Homeland Security
• Zach Benedict (Class of 2008): President, MKM architecture + design
• Scott Hinderman (Class of 2009): Executive Director, Fort Wayne–Allen County Airport Authority
• Kelly Updike (Class of 2009): President/CEO, Embassy Theatre
• Mike Mushett (Class of 2016), Retiring CEO, Turnstone
• Ewelina Connolly (Class of 2017): Former CEO, Amani Family Services
• Nikki Quintana (Class of 2020): Former Executive Director, Fort Wayne Metropolitan Human Relations Commission
• Kevin Morse (Class of 2021): President/CEO, Goodwill Industries of Northeast Indiana
• Ramadan Abdul-Azeez (Class of 2022): Board President, Black Chamber Fort Wayne

These leaders, along with many others, have leveraged their LFW experience to shape the future of Fort Wayne.

If you’re ready to make a lasting impact on the Fort Wayne community, apply for the LFW Class of 2027 today. Applications can be submitted online at LeadershipFortWayne.com. For additional information, contact Meghan Murphy, Director of Investor Programs, at [email protected] or call 260-420-6945.

About Leadership Fort Wayne

Leadership Fort Wayne, a program of Greater Fort Wayne Inc., is dedicated to developing, inspiring, and connecting emerging to seasoned leaders in Fort Wayne. Through a robust curriculum and extensive community engagement, LFW fosters leadership that drives positive community transformation.