04.22.25
Meet the 2026 Leadership class: 40 Changemakers Shaping the Future of Fargo Moorhead West Fargo
By Setareh Campion, Director of Programs, FMWF Chamber
Leadership FMWF Class of 2025 member Zac Johnson (WEX) presents during a recent session.
A new wave of changemakers is stepping into the spotlight. The 2026 Leadership class is an inspiring group of 40 regional professionals ready to lead with purpose and elevate our region.
This program, powered by Innovate28, started more than 30 years ago and focuses on developing the future leaders of our metro. And the 2026 Leadership class already stands out with its diverse backgrounds, shared commitment to progress and passion for our community.
A New Class, A New Chapter
The 2026 Leadership class represents a wide spectrum of industries, coming together with one mission: to build stronger connections, drive solutions and lead with authenticity.
Industries represented:
- Nonprofits and human services
- Health care and wellness
- Insurance and financial services
- Legal, government and public sector
- Construction, engineering and real estate
- Manufacturing, energy and agriculture
- Marketing, media and technology
- Retail, hospitality and workforce
Meet the 2026 Leadership Class
These professionals were selected for their leadership potential, professional contributions and desire to make a difference.
Meet the newest members of the 2026 Leadership Class:
- Mimi Akpofure, NexCore Workforce Solutions
- Skylar Allex, A&B Business Solutions
- Justine Bahr, Scheels
- Mariah Bates, Otter Tail Corporation
- Nikki Braaten, Bobcat Company
- Menley Denham, Healing with Hyperbarics ND
- Ashley Duchsherer, Gate City Bank
- Cas Duckworth, Jeremiah Program
- Jessica Dunlap, Blue Cross Blue Shield ND
- Corey Eidem, FMWF Chamber
- Lana Goodijohn, Enclave Property Management
- Mikaela Hestdalen, Sanford Health
- Hailey Hoffner, Drekker Brewing Company
- Angie Honzay, Microsoft
- Gail Jacobson, Bell Bank
- Jenny Johnson, Tellwell
- Collin Johnson, Zerr Berg Architects
- Alyssa Lakosky, JBC Commercial Real Estate
- Sarah Landsem, Great Plains Food Bank
- Erin Larsgaard, Wold Johnson, P.C.
- Brian Larson, Ohnstad Twichell, PC
- Sierra Mcfaline, CAPLP
- Jessica Mears, First International Bank & Trust
- Jared Meyer, NAU Country Insurance
- Courtney Montgomery, Anne Carlsen
- John Morrison, American Crystal Sugar Company
- Nate Olson, NDSU Foundation
- Charlie Perhus, Churches United
- Allison Pillar, YWCA Cass Clay
- Beth Prashek, Apex Physical Therapy & Wellness Center
- Matt Prochniak, Moore Engineering
- Karmen Riley, Fargo Public Schools
- Jaden Ross, MWC Advertising
- Ann Schneider, Gehrtz Construction Services
- Anthony Sommerfeld, WSB
- Chelsey Stoa, Flint Group
- Kimberly Vosseteig, American Red Cross
- Bethany Wall, Friends of the Children Fargo-Moorhead
- Mikayla Young, The Barry Foundation
- Jose Zandonadi, Bayer CropScience
Each individual brings a unique lens to the program, adding to the depth and strength of the cohort. With the support of their employers and a commitment to growth, they’re ready to learn, lead and contribute to the legacy that is Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo (LFMWF).
"This cohort reflects the strength, diversity and momentum of our region’s leadership. Each participant brings a distinct voice and vision to the table, and through this program, they’ll sharpen their leadership approach and deepen their impact—both within their organizations and across the broader community. We’re proud to support their growth and grateful to the employers who recognize the value of investing in future leaders who will help move our region forward.”
- FMWF Chamber President and CEO Shannon Full
What the 2026 Leadership Class Will Experience
Throughout the year, the class participates in monthly sessions covering community topics such as workforce, government, public safety, economic development and more.
Along the way, they’ll also:
- Build a trusted network of fellow leaders.
- Explore the region’s greatest challenges and opportunities.
- Create a Community Change Initiative.
- Strengthen their skills through hands-on leadership experiences.
This journey will empower the 2026 Leadership class to step forward—not just in their organizations, but across the entire Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community.
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