Leadership Pasadena Celebrates 2023 Graduation and Welcomes New Board President

Leadership Pasadena, a professional leadership development program, proudly announces the successful graduation of its latest cohort and the appointment of Amara Ononiwu as the new Board President.

The graduation ceremony, held last Thursday, was a festive occasion attended by alumni, sponsors, and supporters who gathered at the historic Maxwell House to celebrate the accomplishments of the graduates. Sponsors included the City of Pasadena, the Dr. Gordon K. Squires and Kendra Nitta “Dragonfly” Fund, Hahn & Hahn, LLC, Huntington Health, Pasadena Federal Credit Union, Pasadena Educational Foundation, the office of Los Angeles County Supervisor Barger, Capital Group, the CJB Group, WeOlive, The Buigues Group, the WHH Foundation, and Macy’s. All told, community leaders from across all areas of the city, including civil service, non-profit, technology, and business sectors were present to champion Leadership Pasadena’s ongoing efforts to better enable local leaders to drive positive change.

Mary Spellman, Board Vice President, kicked off the ceremony by expressing gratitude to the esteemed alumni and board members present, including founder Greg Apodaca, as well as alumnae from the inaugural class: Roberta Martinez, Phlunte Riddle, and Martha Shenkenberg. The event was enriched by the presence of Judy Chu, U.S. Representative for California’s 28th District, who lauded the impactful work done by Leadership Pasadena leaders in our community.

Carolina Caro, LP Facilitator and Leadership Coach, commended the remarkable achievements of the graduating cohort. Their growth, insights, and unwavering dedication to their community were evident during their community impact project presentations, which will be shared with the Pasadena City Council. Class speaker Sara Goldman encapsulated the essence of the LP experience by invoking the words of Mr. Rogers: “Look for the helpers.” Sara stated, “…that really struck me as true, especially in this experience, because we are surrounded by a cohort, an organization, and an entire community of helpers. Caring people who have dedicated themselves to improving the lives of those around them.”

The occasion also served as an opportunity to express heartfelt appreciation to Johanna Atienza, the outgoing Board President, for her invaluable contributions and exemplary leadership. Outgoing board members were also commended for their service, while Manuel Carmona was welcomed as a new member of the Advisory Board. The spotlight then turned to Amara Ononiwu, who was warmly welcomed as she assumes the vital role of the organization’s next president. Amara brings a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to furthering equity in Pasadena.

The event proved to be a resounding success, raising almost $9,000, which will not only support the ongoing efforts of Leadership Pasadena but also contribute to the establishment of a more robust LP Alumni Network. The network will further allow graduates to stay connected, foster collaboration, and continue to make positive impacts in the community.

Looking ahead, Leadership Pasadena is thrilled to announce that Nancy Carol Inguanzo, a current board member, and Karen Burgess, an LP alumna, will lead the next cohort of community leaders in 2024.

For more information about Leadership Pasadena and its programs, please visit www.leadershippasadena.org.