09/25/2026
The morning began with a special breakfast reception bringing together alumni, guest speakers, and partners who have been part of the Catalyst community over the past 20 years. It was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the more than 400 emerging leaders we’ve supported throughout the region and celebrate the diverse group of professionals and industries represented among our alumni.
For two decades, Catalyst has helped emerging leaders learn, connect, and grow—and we’re proud to see so many of our alumni go on to make an impact and serve as trailblazers in their fields.
The celebration also welcomed Cohort 20, our newest class of Catalyst participants, who kicked off their first session with Mayor Kevin McCarty . We’re excited to see where this next group of leaders goes!
A special thank you to the The Sutter Club for hosting our celebration, and to our Program Director, Cassandra Pye, for her unwavering dedication to supporting our emerging leaders.
A huge shoutout also goes to our longtime partners at SMUD — Board Member Gregg Fishman and CDO Jose Bodipo Memba — for sharing thoughtful remarks on leading with courage and intention, and bringing others with you along your journey.
And finally, thank you to our incredible sponsors for supporting Catalyst Cohort 20! We could not do this work without you.
Title Sponsor: AT&T
Reception Sponsor: SMUD
Industry Sponsor: Kaiser Permanente
Scholar Sponsors: , California State Association of Counties, Capitol Tech Solutions, Dignity Health Sacramento, First 5 Sacramento, Golden 1 Credit Union, Lucas Public Affairs, Pacific Gas and Electric, Sacramento Region Comm. Fdtn., CSU AANHPI Student Achievement Program, , SAFE Credit Union, Sage Strategies, siemens
