Celebrating Buffalo Niagara’s Next Generation of Leaders: 34 Graduate from BNP Grow
The Buffalo Niagara Partnership recognizes its Fall 2026 BNP Grow graduates and the employers investing in their leadership development.
The Buffalo Niagara Partnership (BNP) proudly celebrated 34 emerging leaders from across the region on November 4 as they completed the Fall 2026 cohort of BNP Grow, the Partnership’s leadership development program.
Representing organizations across a wide range of industries, these graduates share a commitment to growing professionally and taking on greater leadership responsibilities within their workplaces and communities.
Their graduation also marks an important investment by the employers who supported their participation. Developing talent from within helps businesses build stronger teams and prepare for the leadership needs of tomorrow.
Building Leadership Skills That Last
Delivered in partnership with Niagara University’s Holzschuh College of Business Administration, BNP Grow provides emerging professionals with a foundation for effective leadership.
Over three months, participants engaged in five interactive sessions led by Niagara University faculty, exploring topics including communication and influence, emotional intelligence, decision-making, and coaching.
Through practical exercises and discussions with peers from other regional organizations, participants gained new perspectives on leadership and strategies they can apply in their current roles.
The experience also creates valuable connections among professionals who might otherwise never have the opportunity to learn from one another.
Investing in the Future of Buffalo Niagara
For employers, developing emerging talent is an investment in their organization’s long-term success.
BNP Grow is designed for employees who demonstrate leadership potential and are ready to take the next step in their professional development. The program provides structured learning and access to experienced faculty while allowing participants to build relationships with professionals across Buffalo Niagara.
This work reflects the BNP’s broader mission to strengthen the Buffalo Niagara economy by connecting, empowering, and mobilizing the region’s employers. Helping businesses develop their people is an important part of building a competitive regional workforce and a strong pipeline of future leaders.
Congratulations to Our Fall 2026 Graduates
The BNP congratulates all 34 graduates and thanks the participating employers for supporting their professional growth.
- Alden State Bank: Andrew Amato, Justin Carr and Brittany Miano
- American Red Cross: Clare Casper and Jeffrey Ricci
- BS&P CPAs and Consultants: Atira Boos and Ashlee Hohman
- Buffalo Museum of Science: Benjamin Frawley
- Buffalo Niagara Partnership: Chelsea McCann
- Crowley Webb: Courtney Flynn
- Erie County Industrial Development Agency: Atiqa Abidi, Noah Cliff and Michelle Moore
- Excelsior Orthopaedics: Gabby Mamon
- National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation: Erin Kearns
- National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation: Alex Keller
- Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority: Aidan Dugan, Andrew Hartzell, Genevieve Kosmowski, Maggen Louisius-Blair, Vance McDaniel, Christopher Murphy and Jodie Zolnowski
- Niagara University: Lindsey Drake and Katie Kocsis
- Noco Environmental: Alissa Stevens
- Nussbaumer & Clarke, Inc.: Anna Swisher
- Peerless, Inc.: Adam Barna and Michael Lynch
- Resurgence Brewing: Madeline Mulholland
- Seneca Gaming Corporation: Symone Maracle
- Tops Friendly Markets: Lacey Klinkbeil
- Walsh Duffield Cos. Inc.: Demi Walsh
- Zehnder Rittling: Laquisha Ross
We also extend our appreciation to Niagara University’s Holzschuh College of Business Administration faculty for their partnership and contributions to the program.
Scenes from the Celebration
Help Your Next Generation of Leaders Grow
Who are the emerging leaders in your organization?
BNP Grow offers employers a way to invest in promising employees and help prepare them for greater responsibility. The introductory three-month program is designed to build foundational leadership skills while connecting participants with peers from businesses throughout the region.
Interested in BNP Grow for your team?
Learn more about the program and upcoming cohort opportunities at thepartnership.org/talent-programs/grow, or contact Ann Brooker, Senior Manager of Talent Programs, at abrooker@thepartnership.org.