Leadership Tri-Cities Class 28 has launched.

The first week included a challenging ropes course, a class reception, and a retreat in Wenatchee's beautiful surroundings.

“What an incredible first day we had at the Reach Beyond Ropes Course. The class’s open-minded and open-hearted approach speaks volumes about the exceptional group we have this year,” said Candice Jones, Class 28 Director.

The new class started at Challenge Tri-Cities, a ropes course at Columbia Park. The course integrates ropes challenges with structured activities, providing participants distinctive opportunities to learn, grow, and excel.

It was during the ropes course the class adopted its theme for the year – the pivot.

“They all embraced the concept of the pivot with such grace and humor,” said Candice, “Whether it was pivoting their strategies on the ropes course, pivoting their perspectives in team challenges, or literally pivoting their bodies to navigate obstacles, they showed remarkable adaptability and resilience.”

The day concluded with a class reception at CG Public House. There, the new class got a sneak peek at what’s in store for the year and met the board and session directors who will be leading the year.

The week concluded with a retreat in Wenatchee and the annual excursion to the Ohme Gardens.

A class 28 member commented, “My favorite part really was finishing up the first day at Ohme Gardens. It was peaceful…and connecting at the end of it and watching people in the class be vulnerable was a great team building experience.”

During the retreat, the class showcased a collaborative and supportive spirit, particularly in exercises like "Diminishing Resources" and the "Human Knot," where they emphasized a "we mentality."

Their nominations and elections process were marked by authenticity, with many members stepping back to allow others the opportunity to lead. This led to the creation of a new role, "Pivoteers," a support committee of experienced leaders who will assist the elected officers as needed.

Up next is Medical & Health Day on Wednesday, September 16th.

Finally, let’s Meet Class 28!

1. Winifred “Winnie” Alberg – Johnson & Johnson Law Firm
2. Joshua Burnham – Mid-Columbia Ballet
3. Jessica Butts – Kadlec
4. Emma Chambers – Trios Health
5. Hong Chen – Hanford Mission Integration Solutions
6. Jonathan Dickey – City of Kennewick
7. Emily Dirkes – Lourdes Health
8. Keila Gordon – Freeform Spaces
9. Brianna Harty – Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton and Franklin Counties
10. Elder Hernandez Osorio – ESD123
11. Jeff Hosler – Richland School District
12. Leanne Luehrs-Purcell – The Children’s Reading Foundation
13. Amber Maiden – Arts Center Task Force
14. Raul Marroquin – Richland Fire & Emergency Services
15. Gabe Martin – Ben Franklin Transit
16. Kristin Mensinger – North Wind Solution
17. Kimberly “Kim” Ralston-Hooper – INTERA Incorporated
18. Mayra Reyna – Port of Pasco
19. Abby Runner – Girl Scouts of Eastern Washington
20.  Shelbey Sawyer – Heartlinks
21. Shelby Simmelink – Community First Bank | HFG Trust
22. Laycie Thomas – Columbia Safety
23. Thomas “Lee’ Williams – Columbia Basin College
24. Sonee Wilson – Goodwill Industries of the Columbia
25. Desiree Wolframm – Energy Northwest
26. Julie Woodward – Visit Tri-Cities
27. Anthony Wright – City of Pasco