The Oxford Lafayette Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce the participants of the 2026 Leadership Lafayette program
The Oxford Lafayette Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce the participants of the 2026 Leadership Lafayette program. This year, the Chamber is excited to partner with SeniorKare as the official sponsor of the program.
Kicking off in January, this eight-month leadership development initiative provides emerging and established leaders with hands-on training, community engagement, and networking opportunities. Designed to ensure continued leadership growth within the Lafayette-Oxford-University (LOU) community, the program fosters collaboration and innovative problem-solving skills to drive meaningful local impact.
“I am honored to Co-Chair this transformative program,” said Sha’ Simpson, Director of Public Information at North Mississippi Regional Center. “Leadership Lafayette empowers individuals to make lasting impacts by fostering collaboration, innovation, and personal growth. I look forward to seeing the contributions our leaders will make in shaping the future of the LOU community.”
Wayne Andrews, Director of the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council and Co-Chair of the Steering Committee, added, “The 2026 Leadership Lafayette class reflects the dynamic and diverse spirit of our community. Bringing together professionals from businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurial backgrounds, this program provides an in-depth introduction to local challenges and opportunities. By building strong connections and insights, we are cultivating leaders equipped to drive positive change and growth in Lafayette.”
Meet the 2026 Leadership Lafayette Class:
- Nathan Beasley – Northwestern Mutual
- Sarah Breithaupt – Totsford
- Ellen Brewer – University of Mississippi Medical Center
- Will Francis – Giles McPhail Wealth Management
- Tim Freeny – Baptist Memorial Hospital- North Mississippi
- Addison Harbour – SafeHarbour Insurance
- Kam Herold – Oxford MS Police Department
- KC Kellum – Chicory Market
- Ambriel Kinney – Conscious Change
- Trenton Madson – McMinn Realty
- Adrienne McDill – The University of Mississippi
- Holly McElyea – North East Mississippi Electric Power Association & North East SPARC
- Joy Miles – Oxford School District
- Amanda Pounds – North Mississippi Regional Center
- Dewansia Sutton – Arcare
- Kayla VonBurg-King – The University of Mississippi Division of Enrollment Management
- Tamara Webb – North Mississippi Regional Center
- Jim Williams – RKA Construction
- Josh Williams – McKenzie Collier, PLLC
- Kiara Willis – The University of Mississippi
- Laura Lee – Origin Bank
- Laura Fraizer – Oxford Lafayette Chamber of Commerce
- Sadara Evans – Chicory Market
Each monthly session equips participants with knowledge about Oxford and Lafayette County, covering key community issues and leadership strategies. Class members collaborate on community service projects, applying their skills to real-world challenges.
Leadership Lafayette participants are selected by a Steering Committee that seeks diverse candidates committed to leadership growth and community service. Since its inception in 1988, the program has continued to develop leaders dedicated to making a difference in the LOU community.
The Chamber thanks SeniorKare and their owner and founder Phil Schmitt for his passion for leadership training and the support of this program. SeniorKare provides personalized in-home care that families can truly trust, combining professionalism with a level of compassion that makes every client feel like family. With carefully selected caregivers and customized care plans, SeniorKare is committed to putting each client’s needs first while creating a supportive, comfortable environment. As the presenting sponsor, SeniorKare is proud to support efforts that make a meaningful difference for seniors and their families.
The Oxford-Lafayette Chamber of Commerce is the region’s leading business organization, bringing together professionals to enhance the local business climate and overall quality of life. With over 800 members, the Chamber fosters economic growth through networking, education, leadership programs, and advocacy.
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