Leadership Clinton County welcomes 2026–27 class at opening retreat

LOCK HAVEN -- Leadership Clinton County (LCC) officially kicked off its 2026-27 program year with its annual Opening Retreat on Sept. 24 and 25 at the Sons and Daughters of Italy in Lock Haven.

The opening retreat brought together members of the new Leadership Clinton County class for team building, community-focused activities, professional development and opportunities to connect with LCC Advisory Committee members, mentors and fellow participants.

The retreat began Thursday with a welcome from Megan Wheeler, Chamber & Leadership Director, participants also met members of the LCC Advisory Committee and mentors who will support the class throughout the program year.

Throughout the first day, participants took part in several activities designed to help them get to know one another and begin building relationships. The day also included a communication session led by Gary Svetz, of Svetz Consulting Services, LLC.

Friday's programming focused on teamwork, higher education and community connections, public speaking, personal values and goal setting.

Participants took part in team-building activities and heard from Albert Jones, Krisy Meeker and Heidi Warner of Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania. The group also took part in a public speaking session led by Kate Kishbaugh.

"The retreat was a great way for everyone to get to know each other and start building those connections," said Wheeler. "I'm excited to see how this group grows together and gets involved in our community over the next nine months."

Leadership Clinton County is a nine-month leadership development program designed to help adults who live or work in Clinton County strengthen their leadership skills, develop professional connections and gain a greater understanding of the community. The program encourages participants to become more informed and engaged leaders within Clinton County.

Leadership Clinton County thanks the organizations and businesses that helped support the opening retreat, including the Clinton County Commissioners, Clinton County Community Foundation, Clinton County Economic Partnership, Coploff, Ryan & Houser, Central PA Auto Auction, The EADS Group Diversified Asset Planners, First Quality, Geisinger, Journey Bank, Leadership Clinton County Alumni, M&T Bank, Sons and Daughters of Italy Loggia Giosue Carducci Lodge 146, Wayne Township Landfill and UPMC.

The 2026-27 Leadership Clinton County class will continue meeting throughout the program year, exploring a variety of community topics, leadership skills and opportunities for civic engagement.

For more information about Leadership Clinton County, contact the Clinton County Economic Partnership at www.clintoncountyinfo.com.