Staff Reports | Community Updates
Scottsdale Leadership has announced its 2026-27 board of directors, bringing together representatives from business, education, health care, nonprofit, financial, civic and cultural organizations across the Valley.
The nonprofit leadership development organization said the board will help guide its programs and community engagement efforts during the 2026-27 term, according to a press release.
“This year’s Board brings together an exceptional group of leaders with diverse experience, perspectives, and a shared commitment to our community,” Scottsdale Leadership Executive Director Lee Ann Witt said. “Their leadership will help us build on the strength of our programs, expand our impact, and continue preparing leaders who are informed, engaged, and ready to put leadership into action.”
Scottsdale Leadership Board President Jim Kollenda added, “I’m honored to serve alongside such a talented and committed group of leaders. Together, we look forward to strengthening Scottsdale Leadership, expanding opportunities for meaningful community engagement, and ensuring our program continues to meet the needs of the leaders and community we serve.”
The 2026-27 board executive committee includes:
- •President: Jim Kollenda Class 36; Western Alliance Bank
- •Past President: Merle Riepe, PhD, Class 30; SOLVE Talent
- •President Elect: Anne Gwin, Class 34; Nationwide
- •Treasurer: Justin Layman, Class 37; Arouet Capital
- •Secretary: Dale Shafer, Class 38; Life Moves Wealth Management
Board of Directors:
- •Jason Glenn, Class 37, Vanguard
- •Karen Tonkinson, Class 37; Hyatt Place & Hyatt House
- •Dan Newhart, Class 38; Fiesta Sports Foundation
- •Colleen Katz, Class 34; Pictures in Pixel Photography
- •Lisa Nolan, Class 22; Nolan Maddox Marketing
- •Rose Meyer, Class 39; Save the Family
- •Dr. Kristen Parrish, Class 37; Arizona State University
- •Brendan Cassin, Class 37; MidFirst Bank
- •Lori Schneider, Class 39; Compass Realty
- •Alicia Haygood, Class 39; Scottsdale Vibes Podcase
- •Lauren Crider, Class 40; Renaissance Personnel Group
- •Ken Brandeis, Class 39; Radio-Coteau
- •Mike Vreeland, Class 37; Valley Presbyterian Church
Developing leaders, strengthening community
Scottsdale Leadership’s nine-month Leadership Development Program provides hands-on experiences designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the community while developing skills in strategic thinking, communication, decision-making, collaboration, problem-solving and community engagement.
Since its founding in 1986, Scottsdale Leadership has developed more than 1,450 alumni who serve throughout the Valley as business and civic leaders, nonprofit executives, educators, community volunteers, board members, commissioners and elected officials, according to a press release.
This fall, Scottsdale Leadership also launched its inaugural Scottsdale Executive Leadership Program, a confidential, invitation-only program for senior executives and C-suite leaders. The program brings together executives from business, health care, education, government, nonprofit organizations and other sectors for discussions about the community and opportunities to connect with other leaders and community decision-makers.
