The Leadership Venango Class of 2025 has been actively exploring local businesses, community initiatives, and leadership development strategies, all while working collaboratively on impactful projects.
Exploring Emlenton & Oil City
The first session took the class on an insightful tour of Emlenton, where they visited a variety of local businesses. Participants explored Baytree Farm, Amazing Stitches, and Little It Deli, gaining a deeper appreciation for the area’s small-town charm and entrepreneurial spirit. They also visited Allegheny Mountain Hardwood Flooring. The day concluded with a thought-provoking discussion led by Charlie Cotherman from Oil City Vineyard Church.
In the following session, the group traveled to Oil City where they focused on Effective Communication, followed by a tour of the Lyric Theatre and Oil City Library Theatre. The class also visited Core Goods and Woods and River. The day wrapped up with a session on Project Management with Brian McNulty from PennDOT.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Cranberry
The most recent session took place at the Cranberry Place Senior Center inside the Cranberry Mall, where the morning agenda centered on Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. Featured speakers Joe Croskey and Kathleen Ellwood offered valuable perspectives on fostering inclusivity in leadership and community. The afternoon shifted focus to poverty, with Kim Robertson addressing the challenges and solutions to this pervasive issue. The day also included a tour of Brooker Kidney Care, providing a hands-on look at healthcare services in the region.
Group Projects in Action
As part of the program, participants have been divided into three groups based on their personalities. The first group is planning a philosophical community conversation for January, centered around the intriguing question: “How would you reshape society if you were building it from scratch?” The second group is collaborating with a local school to design a financial literacy program aimed at students. The third group is partnering with the Venango Chamber’s Ashley Smith on the Heart & Soul story-gathering initiative, which will highlight the community’s unique narratives.
Stay tuned for more updates as the program progresses!
Interested in Leadership Venango? Apply now for the Class of 2026! Click here for details.
This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s January 2025 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.