The 2025-26 class of the Elgin Area Leadership Academy (EALA) graduated on May 2, celebrating their completion of a ten-month, immersive leadership program that offered participants valuable insight into many facets of their community.
A program of the Elgin Area Chamber, the EALA class was led by volunteer co-coordinators Dan Fox, Ruth Munson, and Edgar Montes. “When you bring this many people together—individuals who have consistently demonstrated enthusiasm and leadership in their careers—you experience incredible energy and witness truly inspiring examples of leadership,” said Fox.
“Leadership development is a key priority within our strategic plan,” said Carol Gieske, President and CEO of the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, sponsor of the program. “Through EALA, we are not only strengthening individual leaders, but also building a more connected, informed, and engaged community. These graduates leave with a deeper understanding of Elgin’s opportunities and challenges—and the relationships and confidence to make a meaningful impact moving forward.”
The award-winning EALA leadership development program is designed to meet the community’s needs for active participation and networking among informed, dedicated community leaders.
Members of this year’s graduating class include: Crissy Barnat, Gail Borden Public Library District; Kristin Berggren, Centro De Información; Vivian Bocage, Rieke Interiors; John Gieske, Village Bank & Trust; Sandra Gonzalez, Elgin Community College; Yvette Gonzalez-Collins, School District U-46; Jose Hurtado, Hines & Associates; Daniel Meyers, Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestras; Leslie Nathan, Community Crisis Center; Jeffrey Otte, JAO Consulting LLC; Mireya Perez, School District U-46; Sergio Perez, Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick; Erin Ramirez, Real Change Studio; Allison Rodriguez, The Salvation Army; Myeshia Sanders, K'S Ultimate Vending; Janine Szerszen, Elgin Community College; Melanie Toth, Marklund; and Joel Yumba, Elgin Community College.
Since EALA was introduced in 1991, more than 550 local business, government, and neighborhood persons have completed the program and have committed to becoming stronger leaders for our community. The next class will be offered in the fall of 2027.
For further information, please call Carol Gieske at the Elgin Area Chamber at 847-741-5660 or go online to elginchamber.com.
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