On July 15, 2025, 27 promising leaders graduated from the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut’s Leadership Eastern CT Program, marking the end of a transformative two-year journey. Hosted at the serene Spa at Norwich Inn, the commencement brought together a diverse cohort of professionals who dedicated themselves to leading with clarity, connection, and compassion.
A Full-Circle Moment: Passing the Torch
This year’s graduation was more than a ceremony—it was a celebration of growth, community, and cross-generational leadership. Alumni, mentors, and sponsors gathered alongside the Class of 2025 to reflect on how leadership shapes our region’s future.
Among the many voices who spoke to the heart of leadership:
- Jeff Hamilton, President and General Manager of Mohegan Sun, delivered a powerful keynote emphasizing authenticity, humility, and everyday impact. Drawing from his own leadership journey, Hamilton shared four core traits he believes define great leaders:
- They communicate openly and consistently
- They elevate and empower their teams
- They align values with vision, creating shared goals
- And above all, they remain approachable and grounded
His message was a standout moment, blending practical insights with personal vulnerability that deeply resonated with the graduating class.
- Tony Sheridan, President and CEO of the Chamber, spoke with warmth and conviction about the regional importance of strong leadership and civic-minded professionals.
- Rodney Butler, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, and Jeff Brining, Assistant General Manager at Norwich Public Utilities – sponsors of this year’s program, underscored the power of public-private partnerships to build stronger communities.
- The program also included heartfelt reflections from Program Coordinator Denise Desrochers and class leaders from both cohorts: 2024 Co-Presidents Craig Koenigsknecht (General Dynamics Electric Boat) and Miria Gray (Chelsea Groton Bank), and 2025 Co-Presidents Wylette Selvidio (Mystic Aquarium) and Bobby Kempke (Joshua’s Worldwide). Together, they honored the growth, friendships, and momentum the program cultivated.
A Class Rooted in Empowerment and Positivity
The Class of 2025 stood out not only for their potential, but for the supportive energy they brought to every experience. From behind-the-scenes tours to deep dive discussions and extraordinary excursions, they continuously lifted each other up, creating a culture of encouragement and authentic connection.
Top Takeaways: What Sets Great Leaders Apart
Across speeches, conversations, and shared memories, several unifying themes emerged—reminders of what it truly means to lead:
- Stay passionate, stay optimistic: Vision without energy falls flat—bring both.
- Welcome feedback and fresh ideas: Growth thrives on openness.
- Recognize success and amplify others: Leadership is about making space for others to shine.
- Lead with humility—and make time to reflect: Self-awareness sharpens influence.
These insights weren’t just advice; they were lived lessons, shaped by the challenges and triumphs the class experienced together.
Investing in the Region’s Future
Thanks to the support of employers, sponsors, and engaged alumni, the Leadership Eastern CT program continues to build a strong pipeline of forward-thinking professionals across sectors.
As the Class of 2025 steps into new roles and responsibilities, they carry with them a powerful network—and a shared commitment to strengthening eastern Connecticut for generations to come.
Class of 2027 Leadership Applications are now open! Apply Today
Applications due August 15