Leadership Kansas

Today is Primary Election Day in Kansas.

The decisions made at the ballot box shape the future of our workforce, economy, and communities. If you haven't already, make time to vote.

Your voice matters. Your vote matters.

Find your polling location, cast your ballot, and encourage others to vote.

The Leadership Kansas Class of 2026 spent three days in Hays exploring the industries, people, and innovations that help drive western Kansas forward.

From learning about oil and gas production, agriculture, manufacturing, and water conservation to hearing directly from community leaders and industry experts, class members gained a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges shaping this region of our state.

A special thank you to session co-chairs Sara Bloom (LK '22) and Nikki Pfannenstiel (LK '23) for their incredible leadership and countless hours of planning. Their hard work, attention to detail, and passion for showcasing western Kansas created an unforgettable experience for the class.

Thank you as well to our presenters, sponsors, volunteers, alumni, and community partners who shared their time, knowledge, and hospitality throughout the session. Leadership Kansas is stronger because of leaders like you who are committed to investing in the future of our state.

Tiffany Hall had the opportunity to meet with Leadership Kansas Board Chair Doug Gaumer to discuss the future of the program, opportunities to strengthen alumni engagement, and ways to continue developing Kansas leaders for generations to come.

The conversations didn't stop there. Tiffany is also in Hays for the latest Leadership Kansas session, connecting with current class members and alumni who are putting their Leadership Kansas experience to work in communities and organizations across the state.

We're grateful for leaders like Doug and our dedicated alumni network who help ensure Leadership Kansas remains one of the state's premier leadership development programs.

The Leadership Kansas Class of 2026 spent the week in Salina learning what leadership looks like across industries, communities, and experiences.

The session kicked off with the Kansas National Guard, where participants had the opportunity to take part in a Blackhawk flight experience and spend time at Crisis City. It was a powerful way to see leadership in action, especially in high-pressure environments where teamwork and quick decision-making matter most.

From there, the class explored how Salina continues to grow and evolve through strong partnerships, innovation, and community investment. It was a reminder that progress in Kansas is driven by people who are willing to step up and lead in their communities.

Tiffany Hall, Executive Director of the Kansas Chamber Education Foundation, is on the road this week in the Lindsborg and Salina area with Leadership Kansas.

She kicked things off with a stop in Lindsborg at Hemslojd, which recently celebrated an incredible milestone. The business has been operating for 42 years, with the current owners proudly stewarding it for the past 15. It is a great example of the small businesses that help define communities across Kansas.

From there, Tiffany made her way to Salina, where Leadership Kansas is spending the week. One of the first stops was Black Hawk Flights at the National Guard, giving participants a firsthand look at the work being done to serve and protect our state.

During the southwest session in May, the Leadership Kansas Class of 2026 explored the industries that power western Kansas.

From dairy production and modern cattle feeding to ethanol and oil, participants heard directly from leaders across agriculture and energy while visiting Royal Dairy Farms, Finney County Feedyard, and Conestoga Energy.

These experiences gave the class a firsthand look at how these sectors support Kansas’ economy and communities.

Now, the journey continues as the class is in Salina this week for Session Three.

Kansas Chamber Vice President of Events and Communications Amy Billquist attended the United We Champions for Change event at CPKC Stadium alongside Katie Patterson of HB Strategies, Senator Kellie Warren of the Kansas Legislature and Property Law Firm, LLC, Tanner Tempel of Americans for Prosperity and Julie Klima of Purpose AM.

CPKC Stadium is the first stadium ever built specifically for a women’s professional sports team and a powerful symbol of leadership and progress.

Today, we celebrate the moms who lead with strength and purpose at home, in the workplace, and throughout communities across Kansas. Their leadership, dedication, and impact help shape a stronger future for families and businesses alike. Happy Mother’s Day from the Kansas Chamber!

Congratulations to you and your team, Tony Krsnich!

The Leadership Kansas experience is all about people and the 2026 Class is full of remarkable leaders from across the state.

We’ll be sharing individual 2026 Class Spotlights on LinkedIn throughout the year, giving you a closer look at what inspires these leaders and the impact they’re making in their communities.

👉 Join us on LinkedIn and follow along as we spotlight the Leadership Kansas 2026 Class. https://ow.ly/e2A850YRegh