Leadership Academy Cohort 2026-27

The 2026 NAWDP Leadership Academy Cohort is a dynamic group of emerging and seasoned workforce development professionals dedicated to advancing the field through innovation, collaboration, and excellence. This select cohort represents a diverse range of experiences, perspectives, and regions, all united by a shared commitment to lead with impact. Through an intensive program of mentorship, skill-building, and strategic learning, these professionals are preparing to drive meaningful change in their communities and across the workforce development landscape.

Natasha Allen

Director of Strategic Initiatives

Michigan Works! Association

Girlie Anderson, MPA

Interim WIOA Chief Administrator

EmployBR Local Workforce Development Board 21

Tania Appel

Youth & Community Apprenticeship Consultant

Apprenticeship Carolina

Representative Marshall L. Archer

Representative

Maine State Legislature

Ken Arellano

Green Workforce Administrator

Saleema Bennett

Director of Programs

CareerSource Tampa Bay

Odile Dilone

Campus Director of Workforce Development and Continuing Education

CT State Community College

Erika M. Dix

Manager of Workforce and Talent Development

City of Birmingham Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity

Daniel Fogarty

Assistant Vice President, Office of Enrollment Management and Marketing

SUNY Empire State University

Paula Goddard

Employment Training Advisor Lead

WorkOne Rensselaer, Morocco, Knox, Winamac

Deja Joseph

Youth Services Manager

Jan Jungmann

Director of Business Retention & Workforce Development

Allen Economic Development Corporation

Twanda Mickle

Vice President, Strategic Operations

CDC Foundation

Jo Miller

Apprenticeship Coordinator

Maria Posey

CEO

Viking Impact Advisors

Erin Prada

Assistant Director of Youth Development

Wildlife Conservation Society

Stephanie Predko

Director of Programs

SCPa Works

Carolyn E. Storms-Stoltman, Ph.D.

Chief Program Officer

Northland Workforce Training Center

Maxine Tolenoa

Vice President, Direct Services

Career TEAM

Latresia Williams

Project Director

SERCO of TX /Workforce Solutions Brazos Valley

Anthony Wilson

Executive Director

Community Tech

Cathy Cimino

Viktor Oakley

Lisa Evans

Samantha Terry

Keeka Grant