ELR 2024-2025

“I learned more within nine months of participation in the Executive Leadership Roundtable than I did living in Corona for well over two decades. I made lifetime connections through this invaluable experience offered by the Corona Chamber of Commerce.” - Dr. Monica Green, Norco College

“The Executive Leadership Roundtable helped me understand many of the elements that are important for the well-functioning of a community. It opened my eyes to the fact that besides my family and my job, it is also important the social and economic development of the community. From acquiring knowledge on leadership, history of the City, elected officials points of view, manufactures, medical services, economic development, military, and many other topics, it was always a rewarding experience learning about the class subject. This is a great program that I absolutely recommend to motivated individuals looking to acquire essentials skills to become great leaders and an active part in the evolution of the City.”
- Raul Arevalo, City of Corona, Dept of Water & Power

“What I love about ELR…..I have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful, highly respected leaders in my community. It has been an experience to see first-hand all of the amazing resources that we have at just an arm’s reach. The opportunity to have this venture has been a blessing and I highly recommended it to those who want to become more involved.” - Cindi Schmitz, Corona Fire Department

“The ELR experience has been phenomenal. What a wonderful opportunity to meet and interact with so many high quality individuals while being exposed to the best and brightest professionals in our business and civic community.” - Buzz Brown, Corona Life Services

“The word “depth” comes to mind, when I think of my time in the ELR program. By joining the ELR class of 2016-2017, my knowledge of the community has become deep, broad and rich. From hands on tours of successful Corona businesses (Fender, Veggie Fresh and Thoro Packaging), facilities and institutions (Norco College, Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach Detachment Norco) to in-depth discussions with decision makers and leaders in their fields. One of the many highlights for me was the hospital tours and panel discussion of the future of healthcare with the CEO of Corona Regional, Mark Uffer, and CAO of Kaiser Permanente, Bob Blair. Enlightening was an understatement. The March ARB tour was incredible, from walking in and around military aircraft and spending time with folks from the world’s greatest air force, to learning how Homeland Security keeps us safe by monitoring the nation’s borders and transportation networks. Most of all, it’s been the wonderful group of people I was lucky enough to be teamed with for this class. Looking forward to working with all of them in the future.” - Wes Speake, Amec Foster Wheeler

“I have enjoyed interacting with professionals from the community that I would otherwise not have the opportunity to get to know. Learning about the plethora of resources and programs in Corona has been invaluable as well.” - Dr. Sarah Ragusa, John F. Kennedy Middle College High School

“The Executive Leadership Roundtable has been an awesome experience! Through the in depth company tours, introductions to community members and networking within the group, I have been able to promote the college and our students to our local community. One of our amazing students was even able to score an internship with Shawn Kelley and Hope Radio!”  - Ashley Etchison, Norco College

“The Executive Leadership Roundtable was a great opportunity to gain exposure to the leaders and critical elements of our region that drive the local economy. From learning about the region’s history to being able to get behind the scenes VIP level exposure to city operations, county master plans, educational and military installations and leading companies in our area was an invaluable experience. The introductions and exposure to influencers at the highest levels of government and the private sector alone were beyond anything I expected in going through this amazing program. I would highly recommend the ELR to anyone who aspires to advance in their career and get connected in our community.” - Cheryl Peabody, Peabody Engineering

“Executive Leadership Roundtable was so much more than I ever imagined! Our Leadership Team had the opportunity to have behind the scenes access to so many different businesses in Corona and the surrounding region. We visited the air force base, toured manufacturing plants and heard from some of the nation's best in Economic Development (just to name a few of my favorites). Everyday was packed full of experiences that have made me more aware of all that Corona offers. I have made valuable friendships with others that went through the class that always be with me. I am very thankful for this opportunity and would encourage any executive to take part in it! AMAZING!!!” - Heather Rawlings, Holstrom, Block and Parke, APLC

“The Executive Leadership Roundtable has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The insight gained from visiting all the wonderful agencies in Corona that enthusiastically shared their passion for the services they provide to the citizens of our community was eye-opening and very much appreciated. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of such wonderful, resourceful, and dedicated group of individuals who are committed to making a difference in the world.” - Tammy Ellis, Corona-Norco Family YMCA

“Executive Leadership Roundtable has been an incredible experience for me personally. I have been amazed at learning about our city and the incredible businesses that reside in our city. I had no idea of all the manufacturing businesses our city serves. This experience has allowed me to network with great leaders in our community and has given me an opportunity to gain greater exposure for my non-profit ministry.”
- Julie Pearson, Founder of Gap Gals Ministry

“It’s difficult to say which of all the great experiences the ELR provided was most beneficial. What I am left with at the end of all these experiences is a sense of awe regarding how diverse our city is, and how the efforts of private industry, government, non-profit entities and education are all carried out on an everyday basis, unbeknownst to the majority of our residents. We are so very fortunate to live in a city like Corona!”
- Colleen Molko, Norco College