LeadingEdge

"A few weeks ago, I graduated from Leadership Fort Worth’s Leading Edge program, a program I’ve had my eyes on for a few years now. I’m incredibly grateful to the City of Fort Worth Economic Development for the opportunity to represent our team in the program. Over the course of six months, I deepened my understanding of the city I’ve been proud to call home my entire life while building friendships with a cohort of inspiring professionals who are doing some amazing work across our city. One of the highlights was volunteering at Conundrum Farms. Those who know me know that I’m not an outdoorsy person at all but getting my hands dirty for such a great cause was such a fun and unique experience. Thank you Leadership Fort Worth for investing in future leaders. I am excited to continue my involvement and to continue learning and serving my city." - Jazmin Gutierrez, City of Fort Worth, Economic Development Coordinator, LeadingEdge 2025

"I am proud to have graduated from Leadership Fort Worth’s LeadingEdge 2025 program, representing Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection. Over the past 6 months, I’ve grown in ways I didn’t expect. I learned about the rich history of Fort Worth, discovered my personal strengths, gained a deeper understanding of servant leadership, and developed tools for conflict transformation. We volunteered with a local nonprofit, and in teams, explored the city to present on community trusteeship, imagining a better, more connected future for Fort Worth. Along the way, I built meaningful friendships and truly enjoyed every step of this journey. Thank you to everyone who helped make this experience so impactful. I’m walking away inspired, equipped, and honored to be part of this community." - Chris Campbell, Hotel Drover, Sales Executive Administrator, LE2025

"One city, six months, and 35 new cohort members later, I’m officially a graduate of Leadership Fort Worth’s LeadingEdge 2025! This program was on my radar before I even moved to Fort Worth, so to be accepted and start just two months after arriving was a blessing in itself. On top of that, I was honored to be elected as one of our class’s Social Engagement Officers, a role that allows me to continue to continue to keep our cohort together. Over the past few months, I’ve learned so much. About the city, about myself, and about the kind of leader I am now and the one I aspire to become. Being in a cohort of 35 passionate, purpose-driven individuals has been nothing short of inspiring. The work they’re doing, the way they show up, and the impact they’re making, it challenged me in the best ways. I love being around people who push me to be and do better just by being themselves, and that’s exactly what I found here. Excited to see how we all continue to serve Fort Worth." - Robyn Neal, Content Strategist & Marketing Consultant, LE2025

"When I started this journey in January, I had no idea how much I would look forward to each session. The energy in every meeting was contagious, and I left each one feeling inspired and hopeful. I am so proud to come from a city filled with changemakers, and I am leaving this experience even more excited for the future of Fort Worth. To the Leadership Fort Worth Team, thank you for the hard work and dedication you put into making this program unforgettable. Jennifer Treviño Sara Fairley-Luna, M.A. Symone Dixon Paola Arreguin-Gonzalez To my cohort, thank you for being open, supportive, and truly amazing. I am in awe of each and every one of you! Forever grateful for this experience! " - KayLeigh Nava, TCU MBA Candidate, LE2025

"What an incredible journey it has been! This experience has left me feeling more connected to my community than ever before. Through the program, I not only learned about Fort Worth’s rich history and the incredible individuals and organizations driving change, but I also had the privilege of building relationships with inspiring peers in my cohort. I’m excited to continue growing those connections and finding meaningful ways to collaborate. What stands out the most is how this journey sparked something deeper in me, a desire to serve beyond the realm of higher education. I’ve already begun taking steps to get more involved and give back in meaningful ways. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your community or unsure about what’s happening around you, I highly encourage you to explore the programs offered by Leadership Fort Worth. It just might be the spark you need to get engaged, stay informed, and make an impact." - Hakim Sims, UTA, Director of the Executive MBA Program, LE2025, LFW Board Member

"Over the past six months, this journey has pushed me to grow in ways I really didn’t expect. I learned so much about the history and heartbeat of Fort Worth, connected with an amazing group of leaders, formed and deepened partnerships, took a deeper dive into my own leadership style and just vibed with some really inspiring folks. This experience challenged me, inspired me, and reminded me why I care so deeply about this community. I’m walking away with new life-long friendships, fresh perspective, and a stronger sense of purpose. Grateful for all the speakers & local organizations and THEE BEST cohort members—your insight and support made this experience truly unforgettable. I’m going to miss our monthly sessions but excited for whatever is next!" - Krystal Lofton, City of Fort Worth, Educational Partnership Coordinator, LE2025

"This group was something special, and I do not want to forget anyone that helped and supported me during this time. What’s next? Who knows but I am taking in ALL that I’ve gained within these last 6 months" - Lauren Scott, Fly Grilz Academy, Founder/Executive Director, LE2025

"I’m proud to graduate from Leadership Fort Worth LeadingEdge program- which has been an inspiring journey alongside an incredible cohort of motivated, forward-thinking individuals from across the metroplex. These are the next-generation decision-makers, and I’m honored to have grown with them and gained so many contacts throughout the city. On top of that, my involvement with Leadership Fort Worth has opened several doors for me and my cohort members. I’ve recently accepted board positions with two impactful organizations: YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth Cancer Care Services Both of these organizations play an important role in supporting and uplifting our community, and I’m committed to serving with honor and the spirit of community trusteeship that Leadership Fort Worth has instilled in all of us. I’m excited for what’s ahead—and even more excited to serve alongside other passionate leaders from this cohort in building a stronger, more connected Fort Worth." - JT Carter, Elevate Project Advisors, Founder, LE2025