LEAD Greater Williamsburg is proud to announce the members of its Class of 2027, 27 professionals representing a diverse cross-section of organizations and industries throughout the City of Williamsburg, James City County and York County.

Sponsored by the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce, LEAD Greater Williamsburg is a community immersion program that provides opportunities for recognized and emergent leaders to collaborate on issues of importance to the region. Over the course of an intensive nine-month program, class members participate in educational sessions, tours, and candid conversations with community leaders, gaining a deeper appreciation for their region. Class members explore education, public safety, health and human services, economic development, environmental sustainability, local and state government, workforce development, and the military.

Since its founding in 1992, the program has graduated more than 400 diverse and accomplished individuals. Alumni go on to serve as elected officials, local government planning commissioners, and non-profit board members, building lasting personal relationships and an invaluable professional network along the way.

The Class of 2027 members and their organizations are:

• Alejandra Ramello, Visit Williamsburg
• Alice Jacobs, Merrill Lynch
• Andrea Case, James City County (JCC)
• Brett Smith, Whitley's Peanut
• Charles Gates, WJCC Community Action Agency
• Crystal Bright, Dominion Energy
• Donita Snook, Synergy Home Care
• Grayson Moore, Liz Moore Real Estate
• Jenny Barthlome, Riverside Health System
• John Becker, Williamsburg Landing
• Judson Crihfield, Child Development Resources (CDR)
• Katie Meis, York County
• Maggie Harbick, Chesapeake Bank
• Matt Chambers, Squared Away Entertainment
• Matthew Pollino, Grove Outreach
• Megan Whaley, Premier Home Appraisals
• Melinda Mdluli, Heart Ministry
• Melissa Jeffries, Chesapeake Bank
• Mike Loy, Busch Gardens
• Nathaniel Rock, Williamsburg Area Transit Authority (WATA)
• Nicholas Kier, WJCC Public Schools
• Odalis Delgado, James City County (JCC)
• Patty Hartigan, Colonial Behavioral Health
• Rich Smith, Guernsey Tingle
• Tabor Chapman, Williamsburg Regional Library (WRL)
• Tracey Wright, Virginia Peninsula Community College (VPCC)
• Zach Kirkpatrick, Junk Luggers

“We are thrilled to welcome this outstanding group of professionals to the LEAD family,” said Julie O’Neil, LEAD Board Chair. “This class represents a diverse mix of leaders from across our community, each bringing valuable experience, perspective, and a shared commitment to Greater Williamsburg. We look forward to a year of connection, learning, and collaboration that will strengthen their leadership and create lasting impact across our region.”

The Class of 2027 will begin its journey this fall, working together through monthly day-long sessions to explore the region's most pressing challenges and opportunities. Graduates will join a growing alumni network that continues to shape the future of the Greater Williamsburg community.

For more information about LEAD Greater Williamsburg, including sponsorship opportunities and future class applications, visit www.LeadGreaterWilliamsburg.org