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Let the Journey Begin: Leadership Ponca City Class 39 Kicks Off
If you have ever wondered where the next great Ponca City leaders come from, look no further than Leadership Ponca City! For nearly four decades, this program has been the spark that turns community-minded individuals into powerhouse leaders, and now the Chamber is thrilled to welcome Class 39 into the LPC family.
This year’s group of 25 incredible participants is ready to dive in, discover more about themselves, connect with others and get busy on building a better Ponca City, just like the hundreds who came before them.
We are excited to introduce Erica Fetters with Century Products as this year’s new LPC Chair, joining returning chairs Sean Grigsba (Kay County Sheriff’s Office) and Molly Kyler (Pioneer Technology Center). This leadership dream team brings enthusiasm, insight and commitment to guiding Class 39 through one of the most transformative years of their personal and professional lives.
Class 39 launched their Leadership Ponca City journey on Aug. 13 with Orientation Day, a first look at the experiences ahead and a chance to dive into team-building that laid the foundation for the connections they will build all year long. Just two weeks later, the adventure deepened as the class headed to Camp Horizon for LPC’s signature overnight retreat on Aug. 29-30, a transformative experience that sets the tone for growth, leadership and lifelong bonds.
This retreat isn’t your average getaway. It is an immersive, off-the-grid experience designed to push participants out of their comfort zones, build meaningful connections and set the stage for the work ahead. There’s always laughter, a few nerves and lots of late-night bonding under the stars, especially at Inspiration Point, an LPC favorite for heartfelt storytelling and reflection!
Next up for Class 39 is History Day on Sept. 10, a deep dive into Ponca City’s incredible legacy. From Chief Standing Bear to B.S. Barnes, E.W. Marland and Lew Wentz, our city’s story is filled with bold thinkers and brave visionaries. By understanding where we have been, participants are better equipped to lead where we are going, and there is no shortage of inspiring stories when it comes to Ponca City’s past. We may even have some surprise visitors from the past, adding a little fun to this unforgettable journey through time!
Building a stronger economy starts with building stronger leaders. Leadership Ponca City may be rooted in personal growth, but it is far more than a feel-good program. It’s a direct investment in the people shaping Ponca City’s economic future. LPC connects leaders across industries, creating a network that understands our community’s needs and takes action.
Just look at the results: Former Mayor Homer Nicholson, Class 12; current Mayor Kelsey Wagner, Class 29; Kay County DA Brian Hermanson, Class 1; and nearly every City Commissioner throughout the years are LPC alumni. So are bank presidents, school superintendents, attorneys, executive directors and business CEOs to name a few who make key decisions and drive our economy forward.
Look around and you will see LPC grads serving on boards, leading organizations, supporting development and championing causes that strengthen our business climate. Leadership Ponca City is where leadership and commerce intersect, powering the people who make Ponca City thrive.
The program is thriving, with a legacy of over 630 graduates and more than 125 active Leadership Ponca City Alumni who remain engaged, continuing to learn, grow and give back to the community they call home.
With energy, purpose and a deep love for Ponca City, Class 39 is off to a powerful start. They are already building connections, asking big questions and preparing to make their mark.
The Ponca City Area Chamber of Commerce is proud of this new class, grateful for the alumni who paved the way and excited for the future they will help create! So, meet Class 39, Ponca City’s newest group of bold thinkers, compassionate doers and committed community builders.
Let the journey begin!
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