YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Leadership Mahoning Valley is returning to its roots as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization due to growth and plans for added programming.

Established in 1984 through the merger of the Leadership Youngstown and Leadership Warren programs, Leadership Mahoning Valley has helped shape more than 1,300 business and civic leaders across the region. The program, which had operated under the umbrella of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber since 2008, is now poised to build on its legacy of fostering leadership and civic engagement.

“Thanks to the support of the chamber, we are now positioned to return to our original strategy of serving as an independent nonprofit organization, while continuing to partner and collaborate with the chamber, as well as other community organizations and businesses, to continue to build a sustainable base of current and future leaders for the Mahoning Valley,” said Paul Homick, chairman of the Leadership Mahoning Valley Board of Directors. 

He said the organization is grateful for the chamber’s support in relaunching Leadership Mahoning Valley in 2023 after it was put on hiatus because of Covid.

“We are grateful for the chamber’s assistance and for the commitment to and support of the development of leaders in the Mahoning Valley,” Homick said.

JoAnn Stock, who has led the organization as executive director since 2023, has been promoted to LMV president.  

“Over the past 2 1/2 years, it has been a privilege to help guide Leadership Mahoning Valley through a period of remarkable growth,” Stock said. “I’m thrilled to continue this journey and build on the incredible momentum we’ve achieved.”

Guy Coviello, chamber president and CEO, said it was a privilege to restart Leadership Mahoning Valley and a joy to watch Stock take the program to new heights. 

“The caliber and volume of people applying to be part of the program speaks to its prestige and impact,” he said. “We look forward to watching its continued growth and development of community leaders.”

Applications for the Leadership Mahoning Valley Class of 2026 – set to begin this September – are available. Friday is the deadline to apply.

The immersive, nine-month program offers participants a series of speakers, tours, hands-on activities and site visits that explore programs, services, businesses and institutions in the region. 

Program days are centered around specific topics such as History and Heritage of the Valley, Government and Justice, Health and Human Services, Quality of Life, Business and Economic Development, Housing and Community Development, Diversity and Culture and Education.

In addition, participants complete a DiSC Assessment to deepen their understanding of personal and interpersonal dynamics.