Leadership Toledo

One week until registration opens for Focus 419!

This 2½-day immersive experience offers a deeper understanding of the Toledo region and equips participants to step into active leadership roles across our community.

From local government and economic development to education, the arts, and social services, members can expect a fast-paced, engaging curriculum.

🗓 Registration opens February 10
⚠️ Space is limited—reserve your spot early!

✨ Staff Spotlight: Meet Arika ✨

As the Adult Program Director, Arika is a passionate cheerleader for Toledo (and for any community she finds herself in)! She brings a heart-forward, community-centered, and deeply curious approach to her work. She believes strong communities are built by caring for people first and creating spaces where individuals feel safe, supported, and invited to belong. Her advice to emerging leaders reflects that same spirit: lead with courage, kindness, and curiosity, and stay open to growth along the way.

Favorite icebreaker: If you could be summoned by a lighted symbol in the sky, like Batman, what would your symbol be?

Outside of work, Arika stays connected through a mix of community involvement and personal joy. She enjoys spending time in the Metroparks, supporting conservation and environmentalism, facilitating meaningful conversations, and showing up for causes like affordable housing and belonging. Fun fact: she’s a proud collector of hobbies, including playing music and antiquing for furniture and glass. But her latest obsession is making sourdough bread.

📍 Favorite Metropark: Swan Creek
🍽️ Toledo Eats: Sidon Lebanese Grille & Schmucker’s
☕ Coffee go-to: Plate 21

🎉 Staff Spotlight: Welcome Mackenzie! 🎉

We’re excited to welcome Mackenzie to the Leadership Toledo team as the new Communications, Marketing, and Event Coordinator! She brings a thoughtful, exploratory approach to her work and a deep appreciation for Toledo’s history. Guided by the mantra: “What if it doesn’t work out?” “Ah, but what if it does?”, she encourages emerging leaders to stay curious and lean into possibility.

Outside of work, you’ll likely find her walking downtown, admiring historic homes, or thrifting for hidden gems. Fun fact: after 8 years in Chicago, she made her way back home to the Glass City and we’re so glad she did!

📍Favorites: Glass City Metropark & The Toledo Museum of Art

🍽️ Toledo Eats: Souk, Georgio’s Café International, & Summit Diner