ARCC Leadership Adirondack program and introducing Young Professionals Network
Over 30 years ago, the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce created the Leadership Adirondack program, designed to take participants on a journey of self-reflection, leadership development, and continuing education. From overnight retreats and ice-breaker exercises to fundraising projects and industry tours, this program has evolved over the years to meet the needs of a changing workforce and emerging leaders.
“Leadership Adirondack holds a special place in our organization. It’s incredibly rewarding to see participants gain new perspectives, build lasting relationships, and leave the program energized to lead and give back to our community in meaningful ways,” said ARCC President Tricia Rogers.
Many of the program graduates have developed into C-suite leadership roles, started businesses, or can now mentor and develop other future leaders. The ARCC Leadership Adirondack program has served, and continues to serve, as a critical role in the pathway to leadership in our region.
The last Leadership Adirondack program wrapped up in February of 2025 with a graduation ceremony in Heritage Hall of the Harding Mazzotti Arena in Glens Falls. All 14 graduates were given the opportunity to speak about their experience and share what they learned with their friends, families, and colleagues.
“Leadership Adirondack strengthened my understanding of regional challenges and opportunities while connecting me with passionate leaders committed to improving our communities, resulting in new professional collaborations that will have a long-term positive impact on our neighbors,” said Susan Wynkoop, Director of Continuing Education and Workforce Innovation at SUNY Adirondack. “The intentional learning activities combined with field visits to area industries deepened my confidence and reinforced the importance of thoughtful, community-centered leadership.”
Over a 5-month period, program participants gain valuable knowledge through a combination of classroom sessions with program facilitator Brian Rollo and tours of businesses and organizations across multiple sectors. Brian Rollo is a graduate of the Leadership Adirondack program (2000), where he held a position as Training Senior Manager for Arrow Financial. Since his time at the bank, Rollo has embarked on his own journey of running a leadership consultancy for growth-minded leaders and high performers.
“Leadership Adirondack has played an important role in developing leaders across our community for decades,” said Brian Rollo. “The growth of the 2024–2025 cohort was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when smart, committed people come together with a shared purpose. As we look ahead, our focus is on building on that legacy. We aim to continue elevating the experience and the impact of the program. The goal is simple: to ensure this remains one of the most meaningful and effective leadership development experiences in New York State.”
The ARCC Leadership Adirondack program is open to ARCC members in good standing, and the application period runs from May 3rd through May 29th. More information can be found on the Chamber’s website at www.adirondackchamber.org.
ARCC launches Young Professionals Network
As part of a plan to continue supporting workforce development, the ARCC has launched a Young Professionals Network (YPN) featuring a small leadership team that is dedicated to planning events and programs for professionals under the age of 40. Their mission is to empower emerging leaders through education, connection, collaboration, and advocacy, strengthening the future of our local business community. They are planning to meet monthly (with a break in July and August) to identify opportunities to connect with other young professionals, grow their networks, and share resources.
The group kicked off their initiatives with a “speed networking” event at The Bullpen Tavern in downtown Glens Falls in mid-March. This fast-paced and exhilarating networking event allowed attendees to pair up with each other for five-minute rounds to exchange information and practice their 90-second introductions. The room was buzzing with conversation and laughter as they homed in on their networking skills. After the exercise, attendees were encouraged to stick around to further their conversations.
The ARCC Young Professionals Network will create space for connection, growth, and opportunity—empowering individuals to build not only their careers but their confidence, community, and future.
