Sortera Alloys, an early-stage green tech company, is expanding from Fort Worth into Fort Wayne, creating up to 100 new jobs and investing up to $4.2 million.
Two leadership programs, 56 graduates in Class of 2020
Last week, 56 individuals celebrated their graduation from Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. leadership development programs. The Class of 2020 included 47 graduates from the Leadership Fort Wayne (LFW) program, and nine trailblazers who graduated as part of the inaugural cohort of the Leadership 2.0 program.
Both programs pivoted from in-person sessions to virtual programming this spring due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the change in format, both cohorts completed their respective programs in full.
“Sometimes the most challenging things make the memories more special,” said Barry Schrock, director of leadership programs at GFW Inc. “This will definitely be a class to remember, not just because it was during a pandemic, but because of the lessons we all learned and the long-lasting bonds that were formed. This class has some of the most talented current and rising leaders that I have had the pleasure to work with in our community.”
Wrapping up its 38th year, LFW is an eight-month program that provides an in-depth view of the many facets of the community while developing each participant’s leadership skills. By developing these skills, participants are better prepared to positively impact the community and their workplaces. Since 1983, Leadership Fort Wayne has graduated more than 1,400 individuals, many of whom now serve on or lead nonprofit boards, hold elected office, or own their own businesses.
The LFW Class of 2020 is a diverse cross-section of the community, representing a variety of professions, faiths, races, and orientations. Graduating members and their sponsors include:
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Leadership 2.0
GFW Inc. launched the Leadership 2.0 program in 2019 as a springboard for aspiring and current leaders in Allen County to take their leadership abilities to a higher level.
The Leadership 2.0 curriculum builds on the Leadership Fort Wayne program, featuring tools and techniques that help participants more confidently lead, regardless of their position in an organization. The program is open to graduates of LFW or the Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana Leadership Institute.
Graduates in the inaugural class of Leadership 2.0 are:
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For more information about Leadership 2.0, visit L20.gfwinc.com.
About Greater Fort Wayne Inc.
Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. serves Fort Wayne and Allen County, Ind., as its metro chamber alliance and primary point of contact for economic growth. GFW Inc. focuses on prosperity and community vibrancy through economic development, advocacy, programs and resources that support business success, leadership development, graduate retention and community engagement.