Leadership program graduates nine future county leaders

LEE COUNTY – The Lee County Leadership Program proudly announces the graduation of its 2025 class, marking the successful completion of an eight-month journey in leadership development, community engagement, and regional collaboration.
This year’s graduating class includes nine emerging leaders from across Lee County who have demonstrated a strong commitment to their communities and a shared vision for the future of Southeast Iowa. The program, designed to foster personal growth and civic leadership, is a partnership among the Fort Madison Area Chamber of Commerce, Keokuk Area Chamber of Commerce, Lee County Economic Development Group, and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach of Lee County.
Throughout the program, participants explored critical topics including community issues, social capital, visioning, and strategic action. The curriculum was led by Mary Weinand of ISU Extension and Outreach, and featured a variety of local speakers and site visits, along with a trip to Southeast Iowa Days in Des Moines for networking with state officials and other leaders in the region.
“The goal of Lee County Leadership is to empower the next generation of community leaders—and this group has truly risen to the challenge,” said Savanna Collier, Executive Director of the Fort Madison Area Chamber of Commerce. “They’ve built strong connections, grown as individuals, and are ready to make a lasting impact on Lee County.”
The Class of 2025 includes:
• Christa Bronnenberg, Bee Inspired Discovery Center
• Parker Denning, Ameriprise Financial
• Kaylin Featheringill, The Kensington
• Hannah Hoenig, Connection Bank
• Rylie Kesselring, Climax Molybdenum
• Jessica Koehler, Keokuk Community School District
• Carson McSorely, Great River Health
• Lexy Reu, Fort Madison Area Chamber of Commerce
• Hailey Tweedy, Lee County Economic Development Group
The graduation ceremony took place on May 8th and was followed by a luncheon celebration with family, friends, and community leaders in attendance.
For more information about the Lee County Leadership Program or how to get involved in future classes, contact the Fort Madison Area Chamber of Commerce at 319-372-5471 or email chamber@fortmadison.com.