The Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce announces the 25 local leaders selected for the 2025–26 class of Leadership Cleveland.
Officials said, "This distinguished group represents a broad cross-section of industries and organizations, reflecting the vibrant and diverse leadership that drives our community forward."
The 2025–26 Leadership Cleveland Class includes: Mandy Adams, Bowater Credit Union; Kithara Andrews, Regions Bank; Valerie Bachert, Hearth Hospice Tennessee; Kelly Browand, Edward Jones; Sierra Cannon, Legacy Village of Cleveland; Kristen Davis, MurMaid Mattress Inc.; Ernie Elemento, Bradley Medical Center; Chris Gates, Lee University; Seth Goudzward, Eaton Electrical; Richard Jackson, Bradley County Schools; Samantha Kapperman, Oakmont Eyecare; Jerry Kirby, Tennessee Valley Authority; Lesley Livingston, Edward Jones; Ron Markel, Edward Jones; Angela Mathis, American Cancer Society; Tara Milen, Family Resource Agency Inc.; Cole Powers, Fairfield Inn & Suites; Ashley Rayburn, Cleveland State Community College; Allie Beth Rogers, Companion Funeral & Cremation Service; Eva VanHook, Family Promise of Bradley County; Carrie Villines, Avail Senior Living; Garrett Williams, Henderson, Hutcherson & McCullough PLLC; Blake Brafford, Mint Condition Commercial Cleaning; C.
Seth Sumner, City of Cleveland; and Zachary Thurman, Cleveland Utilities Authority.
Officials said, "Leadership Cleveland, now celebrating its 40th year, is a premier professional development program designed to identify, nurture and connect leaders committed to the growth and success of the Cleveland and Bradley County region."
Participants will spend the next nine months engaging in in-depth sessions on topics such as economic development, local government, education, health care and quality of life.
“Each year, Leadership Cleveland brings together individuals who are passionate about our community’s future,” said Lisa Fain, vice president of Operations for the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce, and program lead. “This year’s class is an outstanding example of the talent, dedication and collaboration that make Cleveland such a special place.”
"The Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce congratulates the newest Leadership Cleveland class and looks forward to their contributions as they learn, grow and work together to make a lasting impact on our community," officials said.
For more information about the program, email Lisa Fain at LFain@clevelandchamber.com.