The Oxford Lafayette Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce the participants of the 2025 Leadership Lafayette program. This year, the Chamber is excited to partner with the University of Mississippi as the official sponsor of the program.

Kicking off in January, this eight-month leadership development initiative provides emerging and established leaders with hands-on training, community engagement, and networking opportunities. Designed to ensure continued leadership growth within the Lafayette-Oxford-University (LOU) community, the program fosters collaboration and innovative problem-solving skills to drive meaningful local impact.

“I am honored to Co-Chair this transformative program,” said Sha’ Simpson, Director of Public Information at North Mississippi Regional Center. “Leadership Lafayette empowers individuals to make lasting impacts by fostering collaboration, innovation, and personal growth. I look forward to seeing the contributions our leaders will make in shaping the future of the LOU community.”

Wayne Andrews, Director of the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council and Co-Chair of the Steering Committee, added, “The 2025 Leadership Lafayette class reflects the dynamic and diverse spirit of our community. Bringing together professionals from businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurial backgrounds, this program provides an in-depth introduction to local challenges and opportunities. By building strong connections and insights, we are cultivating leaders equipped to drive positive change and growth in Lafayette.”

Meet the 2025 Leadership Lafayette Class:

– Christina Buschman – Beard + Riser Architects

– Brandon Byrd – Oxford Police Department

– Kim Byrd – University of Mississippi, National Center for Cannabis Research and Education

– Richard Earnest – Baird Private Wealth Management

– Will Fleming – Trustmark National Bank

– Rich Gilbert – Baptist Memorial Hospital

– John Graeber – GMFS Mortgage

– Amy Harris – GranthamPoole

– Britney Haskins – University of Mississippi

– Shelby Hernandez – Oxford Police Department

– Mary Kelleher – Lucky Elephant Co.

– Barrett Larson – BankFirst

– Laura Liberto – MississippiCare (ARCare)

– Je’Lisa McGee – University of Mississippi

– Krista Nicholass – Addicus, LLC

– Ashley Olsen – University of Mississippi, Facilities Management

– Jacee Palmer – University of Mississippi, Grisham-McLean Institute

– Dria Price – Justevia LLC

– Laura Prior – University of Mississippi

– Jamison Roane – Oxford Toyota

– Candace Sanders – North Mississippi Medical Center Employee Pharmacy

– Reagan Scobey – Nothing Bundt Cakes

– Kylie Scott – Ole Miss Student Union

– Adam Stewart – Campbell Clinic

– DaPorshia Tellis – North Mississippi Regional Center

– Camille Thimmes – North Mississippi Regional Center

– Leah Veasey – Visit Oxford

– Amanda Victory – The Jefferson

Each monthly session equips participants with knowledge about Oxford and Lafayette County, covering key community issues and leadership strategies. Class members collaborate on community service projects, applying their skills to real-world challenges.

Leadership Lafayette participants are selected by a Steering Committee that seeks diverse candidates committed to leadership growth and community service. Since its inception in 1988, the program has continued to develop leaders dedicated to making a difference in the LOU community.

The Oxford-Lafayette Chamber of Commerce is the region’s leading business organization, bringing together professionals to enhance the local business climate and overall quality of life. With over 800 members, the Chamber fosters economic growth through networking, education, leadership programs, and advocacy.