Emily Estes-Cross, economic development director with the city of Kennewick, was named alumnus of the year at Leadership Tri-Cities’ graduation ceremony June 14 at the Three Rivers Convention Center.

“We all work as partners, and it’s so fantastic that this organization brings us together to do that efficiently,” Estes-Cross told more than 200 attendees.

Class XXII’s 23 graduates shared results of their community project—a facility renovation for Pasco therapeutic service provider TROT—at the event, and Estes-Cross was recognized for her role in helping the city remove barriers to facilitate recruitment of new businesses to the Tri-Cities.

Nearly 490 people have graduated from Leadership Tri-Cities since its inception in 1994. The 10-month program provides a forum to examine and dialogue about issues facing the local community, state and Pacific Northwest. It includes 10 sessions focusing on various sectors and industries shaping the region. (Article courtesy Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business )