Chautauqua Leadership Network

02/02/2026

Do you know someone in your organization who shows leadership potential and is invested in professional growth?

The Chautauqua Leadership Network is currently accepting applications for the 2026 class. It’s a selective leadership development program for professionals who want to grow as leaders while gaining a deeper understanding of the assets, challenges, and opportunities in our region.

The application deadline is approaching fast.
Apply here: https://chautauqualeadership.org/join-next-cln-class-year/

01/15/2026

We were thrilled to join Chautauqua Sunrise to talk about the impact and future of the Chautauqua Leadership Network (CLN)! ☀️

Thank you to host Doc Hamels—a proud CLN Class of 1996 graduate—for highlighting how CLN has been developing strong, connected leaders in Chautauqua County for decades.

On the show, CLN Coordinator, Carri Raynor, and Volunteer Marketing Committee Chair, Jason Toczydlowski shared insights about:

• The CLN leadership experience
• Our upcoming CLN retreat
• And the fact that applications are now open for the 2026 CLN Class and are due by February 5, 2026.

If you’re ready for your next professional step—take the leap. If you know someone in your organization who would benefit from the program, let them know about this opportunity.

👉 Check out the original Chautauqua Sunrise video link below and learn more about becoming part of a powerful network of civic-minded leaders shaping our region’s future.

Guest(s): Carri Raynor, Jason ToczydlowskiDiscussion: Chautauqua Leadership Network

12/10/2025

Dear Chautauqua Leadership Network Members,

Due to some unforeseen circumstances, we need to postpone the upcoming CLN Annual Meeting. We will be rescheduling the meeting into the new year and will share the new date with you as soon as it is confirmed.

We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and flexibility.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly at [email protected]

Thank you,

Carri Raynor
CLN Coordinator

11/19/2025

🎉 Congratulations to the Chautauqua Leadership Network Class of 2025! 🎉

Last night’s graduation celebration was an unforgettable milestone — filled with connection, reflection, and inspiration.

On Tuesday, November 18th, we gathered at Southern Tier Distilling Company in Lakewood, NY, with class members, CLN board and committee members, and guest presenter John Felton, CEO of Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union.

A special thank you to our incredible Class Co-Whips:

👏 Julia Niles – Chautauqua Region Community Foundation
👏 Leslie Overbeck – Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union
Your support, energy, and leadership helped shape this year into something truly meaningful.

John Felton delivered impressive insights on what leadership really looks like today — reminding us that leadership isn't a title — it's a mindset. And it's not top-down or bottom-up. It's a circle. Everyone has a role to play in shaping company culture and helping each other grow. His message added the perfect touch to an already memorable event.

Thank you to our very own CLN Coordinator, Carri Raynor, for all your work for the class of 2025 programming.

Swipe through to see the class of 2025 celebrating, connecting… and smiling big! 📸

Here’s to the journey ahead — the region’s future is in good hands.

Thank you to the following organizations and local companies that invested in professional development through CLN in 2025:

Aspire of WNY
Chautauqua Institution x 3
Chautauqua Region Community Foundation
Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy
Darwin R. Barker Library & Museum Association
SUNY JCC/Jamestown Community College x 2
Jamestown Community Learning Council (JCLC)
Pucci Carpet One Furniture & Bedding
Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union x 2
The Chautauqua Center
The Resource Center x 2
United Way of Southern Chautauqua County
Village of Mayville
Weber Knapp x 2
YWCA Jamestown x 2

11/10/2025

CLN has connected and inspired our region’s leaders for over 30 years! Today, we need your support to keep that important work alive.

Renew or donate today to keep leadership strong in Chautauqua County.

To make a gift or renew a membership, visit https://chautauqualeadership.org/shop/

11/05/2025

10/14/2025

Join us at the Backstage Laundrette on October 23rd.

10/14/2025

The Chautauqua Leadership Network Class of 2026 is your opportunity to step into the arena — to lead, connect, and make a difference right here in our region.

✨ Whether you’re an emerging leader or an experienced professional, CLN will expand your network, deepen your community knowledge, and challenge you to grow.

🔗 Apply today: https://chautauqualeadership.org/join-next-cln-class-year/

📷 CLN Class of 2025 at the YWCA Lake Lodge, 5/13/25, Lakewood, NY

09/25/2025

Help recruit the CLN Class of 2026! - We all know someone who is eager to grow, lead, and invest in their own professional development.🌟

👉 Share this opportunity with them today—sometimes a simple nudge or a few words of encouragement is all it takes.

https://chautauqualeadership.org/join-next-cln-class-year/

Many employers and organizations recognize the value of CLN and are willing to cover or help with the very reasonable tuition. Don’t let cost be a barrier—this is an investment that pays back in leadership skills, networking, and community impact. 💼🌍

09/20/2025

October Session was Leaders in Action at Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union Training Center. We learned many new things about non profits within our community. Amazing job done by everyone!!!! Next stop…..Graduation! 🍾

08/11/2025

💡 September Session: The Chautauqua Leadership Network Class of 2025 will gather at the Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union's Community Training Center for an engaging session on Team Building & Asset Discovery.

September 9, 2025
1 - 4 p.m.

Location Address: 110 Mall Boulevard, Lakewood, NY 14750

08/05/2025

Today, our class had the incredible opportunity to attend Kwame Alexander and Friends: The Power of One as part of the Chautauqua Lecture Series. We explored how storytelling can create change, spark connection, and shift culture.

Author and poet Kwame Alexander, joined by Maggie Smith, reminded us that one voice, one story, and one action can make a difference—and that leadership often starts with the courage to share your truth.

We left inspired, energized, and ready to keep showing up as leaders in our communities.