The Capacity Lab is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026-2027 Nonprofit Leadership Coaching Cohort, bringing together 13 leaders from organizations across Chautauqua County and the surrounding region.
Now in its fourth year, the program reflects a continued investment in strengthening the local nonprofit leadership pipeline through professional development, meaningful connections, and shared learning.
Offered by Ally Co. in partnership with The Capacity Lab, the six-month program is facilitated by longtime nonprofit leader and coach Beth Oakes. The cohort combines leadership development with peer learning and practical application. Participants will explore topics including effective communication, emotional intelligence, organizational culture, board engagement, and navigating the challenges of nonprofit leadership.
At the heart of the program is a simple idea: nonprofit leaders benefit from learning alongside others who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of their work. Through facilitated conversations, shared experiences, and practical tools, participants will build skills, strengthen relationships, and develop a trusted network of peers.
Meet the 2026-2027 Cohort
The Capacity Lab congratulates and welcomes this year’s participants:
Molly Harvey - Ripley Public Library
Bethanie Milner-Boyer - Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care
Jennifer Foringer - Healthy Community Alliance
Andrew Hernandez - Family Service of the Chautauqua Region
Taylor Samuelson - National Equine Institute of Growth through Healing (NEIGH)
Amanda Sublett - Chautauqua County Humane Society
Stephanie Wright - Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels
Heather Nolan-Caskey - Chautauqua Lake Association
Tyneatta Couser - YWCA of Jamestown
Megan Maynard - Chautauqua Blind Association
Momina DiBlasio - New Neighbors Coalition
Solimar Vasquez - Chautauqua Region Community Foundation
Marc Merchant - Jamestown Community Learning Council
Representing a broad range of missions and organizations, these leaders bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the cohort, creating valuable opportunities for collaboration and shared growth.
Investing in Leaders. Strengthening Organizations.
This local Nonprofit Leadership Coaching Cohort is one of the ways The Capacity Lab supports the development and sustainability of a strong nonprofit workforce in Chautauqua County.
Through its partnership with Ally Co, The Capacity Lab helps expand access to this leadership development opportunity, investing in the individuals who lead and strengthen organizations throughout the county.
Sessions will continue through March 2027, culminating in a graduation celebration in April.
The Capacity Lab looks forward to supporting these 13 leaders throughout their experience and celebrating the contributions they will continue to make to their organizations and communities.
To learn more about The Capacity Lab’s leadership development opportunities, email info@thecapacitylab.org.
