Leadership Kenosha was launched in September 1998 with the first class of participants graduating in May 1999. The idea for a community leadership program rose from the need to develop emerging leaders in Kenosha. The Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce, led by Patrick Guard, formed a steering committee to develop a “hands-on” program that would build leadership skills as well as provide an overview of the community and its assets.
From the beginning the core foundation for the program has consisted of three components: development of leadership skills, enhancement of awareness of community issues, and participation in small group community projects.
Over the last two decades hundreds of individuals have graduated from Leadership Kenosha. Alumni have gone on to serve in numerous leadership roles in Kenosha County including Kenosha County Board of Supervisors, Kenosha Unified School District Board, Nonprofit Directors, and Service Club Presidents.
2024-25 Steering Committee
Amber Elizabeth, Co-Chair (LK2020)
Westwords Consulting
Marisa Markowski, Co-Chair (LK2021)
United Way Kenosha
Robert Niccolai, Secretary (LK2018)
First American Bank
LaVetta Arrington (LK2023)
Harvest Home Assisted Living
James Beller (LK2023)
Kenosha Police Department
Bill Bennett (LK2022)
Uline
Laura Ervin (LK2022)
Kenosha County Child Support Services
Amy Garrigan (LK2017)
UW-Parkside
Debra Karp (LR2006)
UW-Parkside
Brianna Meyers (LK2023)
CCB Technology
Rob Moore (LK2023)
4D Business Group
Jacqueline Morris (LK2006)
Gateway Technical College
Linda Noyce (LK2021)
Kenosha Public Library
Holly Pobiecke (LK2021)
Gartner
Jason Rampa (LK2023)
United States Navy
Steve Scherer
CCB Technology
Marketing/Recruitment & Fundraising
Recruits participants and markets Leadership Kenosha as a leadership training opportunity to individuals, employers and organizations. Raises funds for participant scholarships.
Marisa MarkowskiAmber ElizabethLaVetta ArringtonBill BennettHolly Pobiecke
Policy & Procedure
Develops guiding policies for the efficient and effective operation of the Leadership Kenosha program.
Robert Niccolai
Jen McMillan
Dave Strash
Tamarra Coleman
Erin Ginn
Alumni & Graduation
Works to foster continual involvement of Leadership Kenosha alumni.
Stever SchererBrianna MeyersLaVetta ArringtonBill BennettMarisa MarkowskiRobert NiccolaiLinda Noyce
Program
Assists with the development of the monthly program content for Leadership Kenosha participants.
Jacqueline MorrisLaVetta ArringtonBill BennettLaura ErvinBrianna Meyers