CLS Class of 2026 Graduates Ready to Lead Greater Peoria

Watching the 2026 Class of Community Leadership School (CLS) take part in the program’s traditional tassel toss brought so much joy to everyone in the room at this year’s CLS Graduation Ceremony. Surrounded by more than 150 family members, friends, coworkers, and community leaders, celebrating the accomplishments of this year’s thirty-five graduates came naturally. After sixteen weeks of intensive leadership development and community engagement, we are thrilled to welcome this class into the growing legacy of CLS. 

As the flagship leadership program of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, CLS is designed to develop leaders through civic engagement, relationship building, professional growth, and a deeper connection to Greater Peoria. This year’s class represented twenty-nine companies across a wide range of industries and leadership experiences, creating a dynamic group united by curiosity, service, and a desire to grow. 

What makes CLS so impactful is the way it blends leadership development with community exploration. Participants sharpen their leadership skills while gaining a greater understanding of the people, organizations, and systems that shape our region. Along the way, they build meaningful relationships and lasting networks with peers who are equally invested in the future of Greater Peoria. 

2026 graduate Carter Taphorn of Unland Insurance captured the experience by sharing, “Learning from community leaders with diverse leadership styles helped shape my own approach to leadership, while also giving me a deeper understanding of our community and a greater appreciation for how special our area truly is.” 

The commitment and engagement shown by this year’s class deserve to be recognized. Peoria County Communications Coordinator Tim Shelley, who was selected by his peers to serve as class speaker, reflected on the relationships formed throughout the program, the lasting impact the class will continue to have on one another long after graduation, and how his views of leadership evolved throughout the experience. “Leadership is about more than a job title — it’s about putting in the work and striving to make a positive impact,” said Tim. 

While CLS is certainly transformational for participants, the value of the program extends far beyond the classroom. Hearing the applause fill the room and watching families, coworkers, and employers celebrate these graduates was proof that leadership development matters to our entire community. Programs like CLS strengthen collaboration, support talent retention, and cultivate the civic leadership necessary for Greater Peoria to thrive. 

Kelly Crusen, a 2026 graduate and OSF Program Coordinator, shared, “I walked away feeling more connected to Peoria and more motivated to grow as a leader and be involved in making a difference here.” 

This program would not be possible without the generous support of Farnsworth Group and Commerce Bank, whose commitment to leadership development continues to make experiences like CLS possible. We are also deeply grateful for our dedicated steering committee members, who invest countless hours each year to ensure the program’s success. A special thank you goes to Peoria Mayor Rita Ali for sharing inspiring words that helped kick off such a meaningful celebration. 

To the 2026 CLS graduates: congratulations. We are excited to see how you will continue shaping your workplaces, organizations, and community in the years ahead. 

Photos Courtesy of A-Tay Photography