Leadership-Board-Generic

Meet the 2026–2027 Tempe Leadership Board Members

10/01/2026|Tempe Leadership|

Tempe Leadership is welcoming a new group of dedicated community leaders to its 2026–2027 Leadership Board. Since 1985, Tempe Leadership has brought together passionate leaders committed to strengthening the Tempe community through collaboration, service and leadership development.

As the new leadership year begins, we’re excited to introduce the new Tempe Leadership board members who will help guide the organization and support its mission throughout the coming year.

Meet the New Tempe Leadership Board Members

Grethen Long (Class XLI) – Board Member and Class XLII Lead

Sarah Gomez (Class XLI) – Board Member and Marketing and Communications Chair
Diane Melrose (Class XLI) – Board Member and Marketing and Communication Committee

Miranda Washburn (Class XLI) – Board Member and Marketing and Communication Committee

Kendra Flory (Class XLI) – Board Member

Chelsie Erwin (Class XLI) – Board Member

Chris Watts (Class XXXX) – Board Member

Returning Tempe Leadership Board Members

The 2026–2027 board also includes returning members who continue to bring their experience, knowledge and dedication to Tempe Leadership. Their ongoing service provides valuable continuity as the organization welcomes new board members and begins another year of leadership development and community engagement.

Kate Vawter — President

Brennan Forss — Secretary

Nicholas Gustoff — Treasurer

Linda Sullivan — Board Member

Lisa Groom — Board Member

Melissa Harlan — Board Member

Gabe Hagen — Board Member

Michelle Bigman — Board Member

Madison Rodriguez — Board Member

Nicole Brown — Board Member

About Tempe Leadership

Since 1985, Tempe Leadership has partnered with the Tempe Chamber of Commerce Foundation to unite like-minded individuals who seek to challenge, engage, and make a real difference in the Tempe community. The organization’s alumni are well-represented on local boards, commissions, and elected offices, all working together to create lasting legacies. For more information, visit www.tempeleadership.org.