The Mesa Leadership Training & Development Program has new leadership within its board of directors to lead the organization in its mission.

The group educates and trains potential leaders who are seeking the opportunity to serve in the community and who need exposure to information, organizations and leaders to make that service possible, according to a release.

Sandy Dyk, a graduate of Mesa Leadership 2020, will serve as the 2023-24 board chair, succeeding Kristen Rubi. Phaedra Earhart will serve as chair elect.

The 10-month program begins with its first monthly class on Friday, Aug. 5. The program also includes a variety of activities, including tours, leader shadowing, ride-alongs, and a class project benefiting a local nonprofit organization. Graduation will be held May 3, 2024.

“The Mesa Leadership Training and Development program is excited to announce the beginning of its 42nd class, Class of 2024,” Dyk said. “From classroom to behind-the-scenes tours, to connecting with key city figures, those accepted into the class leave the 10-month program with a greater understanding and appreciation for all that the city of Mesa has to offer.

The Mesa Leadership Training & Development Program was inaugurated in 1981 and since that time nearly 900 alumni have graduated from the program. Many of them have pursued public office, served on nonprofit boards or city commissions, and/or donated their time and energies in a variety of ways to benefit the city of Mesa and its residents, the release states.

Mesa Leadership Training & Development Program is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit sponsored by the Mesa Chamber of Commerce and is part of the Mesa Chamber Business in Education Foundation. The program is administered by volunteers who serve as board members.

Serving on the Mesa Leadership Development Program Board of Directors are the following officers:

• Chair: Sandy Dyk
• Secretary: Jill Adair
• Treasurer: Adam Barrier
• Past Chair: Kristen Rubi
• Chair Elect and Alumni/Community Events: Phaedra Earhart
• Program Director/Co-Curriculum Chair: Terrie Gardner
• Co-Curriculum Chair: Connie Bunyard
• Co-Curriculum Chair: Alison Stoltman
• Program Advancement Chair: Michael Campbell
• Tours/Program Liaison: Jackie Mercier
• Recruitment Co-Chair: Denise Siemen
• Recruitment Co-Chair: Holly Moseley
• Communication Chair: Patti Oskvarek
• Technology Chair: Cheryl Calen

The following are part of the board’s general committee:

• Jennifer Mathus
• Kim Pickard
• Andrea Williams
• Melissa Nelson

Mesa Leadership does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, age religion or religious creed, disability, sex or gender.

For more information, visit mesaleadership.org.