Blog Navigation: Business Insights and Spotlights | Chamber Blog
10.20.25
Meet the Leadership FMWF Class: Justine Bahr, Ann Schneider and Chelsey Stoa
By Hannah Kliniske, Director of Programs, FMWF Chamber
2025 Leadership FMWF participants (L to R); Justine Bahr, Ann Schneider and Chelsey Stoa.
Meet Leadership FMWF participants Justine Bahr, Ann Schneider and Chelsey Stoa—leaders growing impact and connection across the FMWF region.
The 2026 class of Leadership FMWF is officially underway, and this year’s cohort is off to an exciting start. These leaders are ready to explore new ideas, build lasting connections and dive into what it truly means to lead in the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo region. Over the next year, they’ll gain fresh perspectives, tackle real-world challenges, and strengthen the community through collaboration and engagement.
We’re kicking things off by spotlighting three participants—Justine Bahr, Ann Schneider and Chelsey Stoa—who are bringing energy, curiosity and passion to the program.
Justine Bahr: Building Bridges and Connections
For Justine Bahr, Vendor Accounting Leader at Scheels, leadership is all about connection. “A big part of what I do is building connections—whether that’s across departments, within our own team or through the work we do every day to support our stores,” she says.
Not originally from the Fargo-Moorhead area, Justine values opportunities to get to know the community. “The more I understand the people, businesses and spirit of this community, the better I can serve the team I get to lead,” she shares. Leadership FMWF allows her to do just that—gaining exposure to local companies, forming relationships and learning how to make a meaningful impact.
What drew her to the program? “I’m motivated by experiences that allow me to connect with new people, explore different ways organizations operate and engage with the community in meaningful ways,” Justine says. Leadership, for her, is helping her team understand and embrace Scheels’ goals, supporting their growth and “creating an environment where they feel empowered, confident and motivated to do their best work.”
Fun fact: Justine keeps every note she’s ever received—cards, emails, even post-its. “I don’t really reread them, but just knowing that someone took the time to reach out and keeping those messages with me means a lot.”
Ann Schneider: Showing Up and Making an Impact
For Ann Schneider, Business Development Manager for New Construction at Enclave, leadership is synonymous with showing up. “Leadership means showing up—for yourself, your team and your community. It’s being present, authentic and honest in your interactions,” she says.
Her work focuses on connecting businesses with the right construction resources to support growth and expansion. Leadership FMWF gives Ann the chance to expand her knowledge of the regional economy, gain visibility in the community and be part of a network of leaders. “Being part of this program provides insights into our regional economy, visibility in our local community, the opportunity to give back and be of impact through the CCI projects, and nearly a year’s worth of leadership training and resources—what a dream, are you kidding me?!”
Ann is particularly energized by the diversity in her cohort. “There has already been incredible dialogue that has naturally happened because of the differences represented in the room. Whether I am in the middle of the discussion or on the sidelines listening, I am constantly broadening my understanding of people and leadership. It’s absolutely one of the most beneficial parts of this program!”
Fun fact: Almost all of Ann’s clothes are thrifted—she loves the thrill of the hunt. And she starts her mornings full of energy, “ready for confetti and fun!”
Chelsey Stoa: Leading with Purpose and Perspective
Chelsey Stoa, PR and Social Media Channel Lead at Flint Group, views leadership as a balance of creativity, strategy and community-minded action. “Participating in the FMWF Chamber Leadership program will help me grow as a more effective and community-minded leader,” she says. “The opportunity to learn from regional leaders, gain a broader understanding of local and national business dynamics, and refine my leadership skills will allow me to bring new perspective and innovation to our channel marketing initiatives.”
What motivated her to apply? “I applied for the FMWF Chamber Leadership FMWF program because I’m passionate about growth both as a leader and as a contributor to our region’s success. I have also seen several key leaders in our community go through and benefit from the program and am honored to be in such great company.”
For Chelsey, leadership is about connection and clarity: “True leadership isn’t about titles or authority; it’s about service, empathy and the ability to bring people together around a shared purpose.” She’s eager to learn from her cohort, “step outside my daily work in marketing and PR to better understand the broader dynamics that shape our region,” and strengthen her leadership skills in guiding through change and uncertainty.
Fun fact: Chelsey worked in collegiate athletics, moved three times in three years and holds the record for the biggest baby born at Dakota Hospital—12 lbs., 9 oz.!
The Adventure Ahead
Justine, Ann and Chelsey are beginning a year of growth, exploration and impact. Through Leadership FMWF, they’ll expand their skills, build meaningful connections and strengthen their influence as leaders in the community.
We’ll continue to introduce the rest of the 2026 class throughout the year, sharing their stories, insights and experiences as they grow in leadership and make a difference in the FMWF region.
Follow along as their journeys unfold, and consider applying for the 2027 class to join the next cohort of emerging changemakers (Applications open early 2026). Leadership FMWF isn’t just a program—it’s an adventure in learning, connection and impact!
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