Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Announces 2026 Leadership for Five Seasons Executive Class
August 27, 2025 | Business Support, Economic Development & Workforce
The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance is proud to announce the 2026 Executive Class of Leadership for Five Seasons (LFS), a premier community leadership program that connects top leaders to the region and one another.
The Executive Class is only offered every other year, and is an exclusive, 9-month program, running from September through May, designed for recently relocated or newly appointed executives in the Cedar Rapids Region. Each class is intentionally intimate, with a maximum of 8 participants, and provides a unique, personalized opportunity to build strong connections and gain a deeper understanding of the community as a newcomer
Throughout the program, participants are introduced to business and civic leaders, economic opportunities, cultural and community assets that make the region an exceptional place to live and work. The experience helps executives expand their professional networks and strengthen their sense of belonging in their new home.
“Leadership for Five Seasons is about creating meaningful connections with individuals and organizations in the community that last well beyond the program,” said Rebecca Sullens, Program Manager of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. “This year’s Executive Class represents the type of talent and leadership that will continue to make Cedar Rapids thrive.”
The 2026 Executive Class includes:
- Juliet Abdel, President & CEO, Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance
- Eric Marshall, CEO, Orchestra Iowa
- Carrie Mardorf, Director of Parks and Recreation, City of Cedar Rapids
- Katie Oatsvall, President & CEO, Horizons
- John Ooms, Director of Manufacturing, Sub Zero Group
- Jen Parker, Vice President – Community Engagement, Hills Bank and Trust Company
- Matt Rathje, Chief Operations Officer, TrueNorth Companies LLC
- Martina Schubert, Chief Information Officer, Van Meter Inc.
Graduates join a network of more than 1,500 adult LFS alumni, many of whom remain active in advancing the region’s growth, innovation, and quality of life.
Those interested in learning more about any of the Leadership for Five Seasons programs or nominating someone for an upcoming class, may contact Rebecca Sullens at the Economic Alliance at rsullens@cedarrapids.org.
Click here to learn more about Leadership for Five Seasons and to meet the current Executive Class: https://www.cedarrapids.org/membership/leadership-for-five-seasons-cr-metro-economic-alliance/lfs-executive-class/
The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance drives economic, workforce, and population growth strategies, to help businesses succeed.