The future of North Central Massachusetts is in capable hands, as evidenced by the remarkable achievements of the 24 graduates who completed the Chamber’s Community Leadership Institute (CLI) program this year. These emerging leaders were recognized during the Chamber’s Annual Meeting on June 12, marking the culmination of a transformative nine-month journey.

The CLI program represents far more than professional development—it’s an investment in our region’s future. “The Chamber developed CLI to inspire a new generation of community leaders to enthusiastically assume important roles in their communities while motivating participants from diverse backgrounds to be influential in our region’s future,” explained Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber.

A Comprehensive Leadership Journey

Running from October through June, the program includes an orientation and eight intensive, day-long sessions covering critical areas that shape our region. Participants dive deep into topics ranging from personal leadership and nonprofit governance to media communications, healthcare, law and justice, arts and culture, legislation, manufacturing, and economic development. This comprehensive curriculum ensures graduates understand the complex interconnections that drive regional success.

Mike Greenwood, Ph.D., chair of the business and technology department at Fitchburg State University and CLI program chairperson, was particularly impressed with this year’s cohort. “I am amazed with the dedication, creativity and motivation of our participants,” said Dr. Greenwood. “Programs like CLI are important to our community and help ensure a continuity of leadership, engagement and service as our region’s current leaders pass the baton to the next generation.”

Making an Impact Beyond the Classroom

What truly sets CLI apart is its emphasis on community service and real-world application. This year’s class demonstrated remarkable initiative, organizing food collections for local food pantries, collecting professional clothing for Fitchburg State University students, and providing financial literacy sessions to students across the region. They also rallied around a classmate who started a nonprofit to benefit cancer patients, showcasing the collaborative spirit that defines the program.

The impact continues well beyond graduation. The Class of 2025 is currently proposing mental health legislation, creating a support group for mothers, and recently organized a murder mystery gala to benefit Ginny’s Helping Hand in Leominster.

Building Lasting Connections

When asked about their favorite aspects of the program, participants consistently highlighted the relationships with fellow classmates as the most meaningful takeaway. These connections, forged through shared experiences and collaborative projects, create a network of engaged leaders committed to our region’s prosperity.

The CLI experience also provided participants with invaluable leadership lessons, insightful site visits, deeper community connections, and a more comprehensive understanding of the local region—all essential tools for effective leadership.

Continuing the Legacy

The Community Leadership Institute stands as a testament to the Chamber’s commitment to developing homegrown talent and ensuring strong leadership continuity in North Central Massachusetts. With each graduating class, we’re building a stronger foundation for our region’s future, one leader at a time.

Graduates of the CLI Class of 2025 and their sponsors are as follows:

Ely Aguilera, Rollstone Bank & Trust
Hannah Bovill, Bemis Associates
Stefanae Bowen, Mount Wachusett Community College
Marian Colon, Enterprise Bank & Trust
Cat Comerford, Workers Credit Union
Travis Condon, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Emily Dewey, IC Federal Credit Union
Danielle Duval, All One Credit Union
Rosa Fernandez, Health Equity Partnership of North Central Massachusetts
Luisa Fernandez, Fitchburg Public Schools
Calla Flannery, Workers Credit Union
Jacqui Girouard, AIS
Nate Glenny, Fitchburg Access Television
Deborah Hinkle, Fitchburg Public Library
Lauren Howe, EmpHowered PR
Brittany Knowles, Bin There Dump That
Meghan Maceiko, Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts
Sabbra Reyes, Visit North Central MA
Brandon Robbins, Ginny’s Helping Hand
Eladia Romero, Office of Rep. James McGovern
Jake Simopoulos, Office of Senator John J. Cronin
Kristen Smith, NXT Level Studios
Sarah Tavitian, NewVue Communities
Lynese Wiafe, Fitchburg State University

For more information about the Community Leadership Institute, visit northcentralmass.com/community-leadership-institute or contact Maureen Babcock at 978.353.7600, ext. 222.

North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce Membership | Chamber of Commerce Member Benefits | Chamber of Commerce near me  | Government Affairs Update | Community Leadership Institute | CLI | Blog