In the KNOW!

 

August 24, 2026

 

40 Years of Leadership Shawnee. Be Part of What’s Next.



For nearly four decades, Leadership Shawnee has been bringing together people who care about this community and want to play a role in where we go next.

This September, we begin something especially meaningful: Leadership Shawnee Class #40.

Forty classes is more than a milestone. It represents generations of local leaders who have stepped outside their normal circles, learned more about Shawnee and Pottawatomie County, built relationships, and gained a deeper understanding of the businesses, organizations and people that keep our community moving forward.

Leadership Shawnee is designed to give participants a behind-the-scenes look at our community. Throughout the program, the class will explore local government, education, healthcare, nonprofits, manufacturing, public safety, state government and more. But just as important as what they learn are the relationships they build along the way.

Some of the strongest partnerships in a community begin simply because two people had the opportunity to get to know one another, understand each other's work and discover where their goals overlap. Leadership Shawnee creates those opportunities intentionally.

And Class #40 is one you will want to be part of.

As we celebrate this milestone year, we're excited to bring together another group of emerging and established leaders who want to know their community better, expand their network and help shape what comes next.

Our first session begins September 23, and the application period will be closing soon. Class size is limited, and once this year's class is set, the next opportunity won't come around until next year.

If Leadership Shawnee has been something you've thought about doing, this is the year.


Apply now and be part of Leadership Shawnee Class #40.


~Daniel


UPCOMING EVENTS

 

New Professional Development Series

Shawnee Forward is proud to partner with Oklahoma Baptist University to launch a new Professional Development Series, offering free monthly educational opportunities exclusively for our members.

Each session will focus on practical, relevant topics designed to help business owners, leaders, and employees strengthen their skills and better navigate the challenges of running and growing a business.

A special thank you to Oklahoma Baptist University for partnering with us and investing in the continued growth and development of our business community. This new series is another way we’re working to provide meaningful value to Shawnee Forward membership.


Practical AI for Small Business: What Works, What Doesn't, and What to Disregard. In this session, you'll hear from B. R. Dunk, OBU associate professor of business, on what artificial intelligence can and cannot do for a small business or non-profit. Rather than a survey of AI technology, the session focuses on specific, low-cost AI applications that owners can put in place immediately. The session will also cover the data handling and verification standards that should govern AI use in business.


Registration is required and free as a benefit of membership

Your network grows when you show up. Social Exchange gives you two chances each month to connect with fellow Chamber members, share what you do, and build relationships that actually matter.

To make networking easier to fit into your schedule, we offer both before-hours and after-hours Social Exchange options each month, so you can choose the time that works best for you.



Benefit for Chamber Members!

Next Before Hours | September 3rd 8:00 - 9:30 AM

Join us on September 3rd for our next before-hours Social Exchange from 8:00–9:30 AM, hosted by Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee Hall.

 

We’re excited to bring Leadership Shawnee alumni back together for a special Alumni Happy Hour & Reception!



Join us for an evening of snacks, drinks, and great conversation as we reconnect with Leadership Shawnee graduates from across the years and welcome the participants of Leadership Shawnee Class #40 as they begin their experience.

Whether you were part of one of the earliest classes or graduated just last year, we’d love to have you there. Come catch up with former classmates, make new connections, meet the newest Leadership Shawnee class, and celebrate the network of leaders who continue to make an impact in Shawnee and our community.

A special thank you to Sovereign Bank for sponsoring this year’s Alumni Reception and supporting Leadership Shawnee.

 

2026-2027

Board of Directors

We’re proud to introduce the 2026–2027 Shawnee Forward Board of Directors. These business and community leaders help guide our organization and advance our mission to enhance regional economic growth while continuing to connect, advocate, and grow our business community.



We are grateful for their leadership, time, and commitment to moving Shawnee and Pottawatomie County forward.

NEW MEMBERS

Please join us in welcoming our newest Shawnee Forward Chamber of Commerce members. Click their logo to learn more about their business or organization and find opportunities to connect and support them in our community.

 
 

To learn more about all of our members, visit the Membership Directory on our website or click the button below.

BUSINESS RESOURCES

MEMBER EVENTS

Click on each image to learn more.

Upcoming Blood Drives

8/29: Shawnee Mall: https://www.yourbloodinstitute.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/679609

8/30: Life Church Shawnee: https://www.yourbloodinstitute.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/679612

8/30:Redeemer Lutheran of Shawnee:

https://www.yourbloodinstitute.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/692086

Want Your Event in Our Newsletter?

If you're a Shawnee Forward member and have an upcoming event you'd like to share, we’d love to help spread the word! Please email your flyer to Daniel or Crystal at least two weeks before the event, and we’ll include it in the two newsletters leading up to your big day. It’s a great way to get your event in front of the community. Don’t miss out on this member benefit!



Miss a Newsletter?

If you missed a recent newsletter, you can catch up anytime by viewing the archives on our website here.

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