Leadership Cattaraugus

09/02/2026

for Wednesday

Each day is a Fresh Start.
#1 life lessons from Bluey

08/26/2026

Words of Wisdom for Wednesday

"Stop fearing failure and start fearing regret."
Aidan DeFazio, Class of 2026
Portville Central School Alumni

As valedictorian, Aidan challenged his classmates to be bold, embrace new opportunities, and never let fear write their future.

08/21/2026

WHAT A DAY! 💙
The Southern Tier Leadership Summit brought leaders from across our region together at St. Bonaventure University for a day focused on wellness, connection and becoming stronger leaders in our workplaces and communities.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to the Olean Times Herald for capturing the day!

👇 Check out the story:
https://www.oleantimesherald.com/2026/08/21/leadership-summit-studies-wellness/

St. BONAVENTURE — A focus on wellness was the theme of the year for the Southern Tier Leadership Summit. The annual event, held on Thursday at St. Bonaventure University by the Leadership Cattaraugus and Leadership Allegany programs, focused on sharing new tools and perspectives on wellness, inclu...

08/19/2026

for Wednesday

What do you think makes your company stand out? Can you share a story?

I think the thing that makes us stand out is that we value honesty above all else in an industry that is full of lies and sullied reputation. Our name is a really high bar. Our approach in our own brand is that of “the honest friend who has your back” and that means we are going to tell you things that only a friend would. Sometimes this means saying no to a client. One of our most significant clients started by me saying no to an assignment. After the initial no, she called me back a couple weeks later and asked if the new assignment would be a better fit, and I said yes. To this day, she tells me I’m the only person that has told her no, and she values it tremendously.

Bob Bailey, Founder and CEO of Truth Collective

08/17/2026

The SPCA in Cattaraugus County is growing—and they are looking for community leaders who want to make a difference.

The SPCA is currently seeking members for:
🐾 Board of Directors
🐾 Campaign Committee
🐾 Human Resources Committee
🐾 Finance Committee
🐾 Development & Community Engagement Committee
🐾 Marketing & Communications Committee
🐾 Buildings & Grounds Committee
🐾 Governance Committee

This is an exciting time as the SPCA strengthens its leadership, expands its impact, and prepares for the future.

If you're passionate about animals, nonprofit leadership, or simply giving back to our community, the SPCA team would love to have a confidential conversation with you.

To learn more, contact Pamela Say at [email protected].

08/17/2026

Last Chance to Register!
The countdown is almost over!

In just a few days, leaders from across the Southern Tier will gather to learn, connect, and leave inspired with new ideas they can put into action immediately.

If you've been meaning to register... this is your reminder.

Don't let another year pass saying, "I wish I had gone."
Whether you're a manager, educator, nonprofit professional, business owner, student, or emerging leader, we'd love to welcome you.

✨ Great speakers.
🤝 Meaningful networking.
💡 Practical leadership strategies.
☕ Breakfast.
🥗 Lunch.
📒 Conference materials...and a day you'll be glad you invested in yourself.

🎟️ There's still time, but not much!
📅 Southern Tier Leadership Summit
Thursday, August 20, 2026
📍 St. Bonaventure University
🔗 Register today: www.leadershipcattaraugus.org/events
We'll save you a seat. 💙💛

08/14/2026

✔️ Summit FAQs... We've Got You Covered!

Getting ready for the Southern Tier Leadership Summit? Here are answers to a few of our most frequently asked questions!

🚗 Parking? Just watch for the Leadership Summit Parking signs when you arrive on campus.

🕣 Registration? Check-in is from 8:30 to 9:00 a.m., with the program beginning promptly afterward.

👔 What should I wear? Business casual is perfect!

📝 What should I bring? We'll provide your notebook and Summit materials. Just remember your favorite writing utensil... whether it's a pen, pencil, Sharpie... (we'll leave the chalk at home 😉).

🥐 Will there be food? Absolutely! Your registration includes a light breakfast and lunch.

🤝 Networking? One of the best parts of the day! Don't forget your business cards. You never know which conversation could lead to your next opportunity.

We're looking forward to welcoming leaders from across the Southern Tier for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration.
📅 Southern Tier Leadership Summit
Thursday, August 20, 2026
📍 St. Bonaventure University
🎟️ Registration: $70 (includes conference materials, light breakfast & lunch)
🔗 Register today: www.leadershipcattaraugus.org/events

08/13/2026

It Takes a Team.

The Southern Tier Leadership Summit doesn't happen because of one person or one organization. It happens because people who believe in leadership invest their time, talent, and support.

A heartfelt THANK YOU to our incredible partners:
🏔️ Gem Wealth Planning Group and Cattaraugus County Industrial Development Agency for sponsoring this year's Summit.
🎓 St. Bonaventure University for opening your campus and hosting this special day.
🤝 Leadership Cattaraugus and Leadership Allegany for the countless hours spent planning an inspiring experience for our region.
⭐ And a very special thank you to Shauna Keesler, whose leadership as Summit Chair has helped bring this vision to life.

Your enthusiasm, dedication, and hard work are making this year's event something truly special.

We're grateful for each of you and can't wait to welcome everyone on August 20!

https://www.facebook.com/events/1306813968217915/?active_tab=discussion

08/12/2026

Words of Wisdom for Wednesday

People who think too much before they act don't act too much.
-Jimmy Buffett

08/11/2026

Next Stop: Better Leadership.

Whether you're leading a team, a classroom, a business, or a nonprofit, there's always another trail to explore.

Take the next step with us.
📅 Southern Tier Leadership Summit
August 20, 2026
📍 St. Bonaventure University
🔗 Register today: www.leadershipcattaraugus.org/events