WASHBURN COUNTY — Leadership Washburn County (LWC) proudly celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2026 on May 7 at Station Bar & Grill. The event recognized a group of local leaders who completed the program’s yearlong experience focused on community engagement, leadership development, and connection across Washburn County.
The graduation program welcomed attendees with remarks from Chet Hurt, LWC Board President, while outgoing LWC Board Member, Dr. David Aslyn delivered the keynote address.
“Leadership Washburn County exists to strengthen our communities by investing in people,” said Chet Hurt, Board President. “The Class of 2026 showed up with curiosity, heart, and a willingness to learn from one another. We’re excited to see how they’ll continue to lead across Washburn County.”
Class of 2026 graduates and their sponsoring employers were Tami Asplund (Washburn County), Jenna Green (Spooner Health), Marggie Banker (Spooner Area School District), Matthew Hoff (Anderson, Hager & Moe S.C.), Jason Bartholomew (Washburn County Sheriff’s Office), William Huck (Shell Lake Lodge), Autumn Brimblecom (Northwest Regional Planning Commission), Philana Melton (The Dock Coffee), Anne Focht (Spooner Health), Karen Schoonover (Healthy WashCo), Kelly Gabriel (Tim Reedy State Farm), and Jisela Thompson (Round Man Brewing Company).
LWC also extends sincere thanks to the organizations and community partners who helped make the program possible, including Spooner Health and Washburn County as core program contributors.
Board Applications Now Open
Leadership Washburn County is currently seeking applicants to fill three open seats on its Board of Directors.
As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, Leadership Washburn County helps grow informed, connected leaders who care about the future of Washburn County. The board works alongside an Administrative Coordinator to guide the program and support its long-term success.
Board members play an important role in shaping the program each year. Responsibilities include setting policy, reviewing participant and scholarship applications, helping determine tuition and scholarships, approving session topics and budgets, reviewing evaluations to strengthen future programming, and supporting the program’s long-term success. Board members are also encouraged to help coordinate a session during the year and attend sessions when possible.
The board consists of seven members. Terms are three years, with a limit of two consecutive terms. The board meets monthly, generally on the second Thursday of the month at 8:30 a.m., with flexibility based on members’ schedules.
Leadership Washburn County is looking for thoughtful, community-minded individuals who live or work in Washburn County and want to support leadership development in the area.
More information and an application can be found at leadershipwashburncounty.com. Please contact Amy Costello at acostell@co.washburn.wi.us or call 715-635-4444 with additional questions.
About Leadership Washburn County
Leadership Washburn County is a community leadership program designed to educate, connect, and inspire emerging and established leaders through hands-on learning experiences across the county. The program builds relationships, strengthens civic engagement, and supports a strong future for Washburn County.
Last Update: May 22, 2026 9:30 am CDT
