Leadership takes shape through experience, perspective and the people you surround yourself with. 

As the 2026 Leadership FMWF program moves toward its final months, participants are seeing how leadership connects people, organizations and communities in tangible ways. The program is strengthening skills while also expanding how participants engage in their work and in the region. 

With applications opening soon for the next class, participants Gail Jacobson, Anthony Sommerfeld and Charlie Perhus share what that growth looks like in practice so you can see what you could be a part of. 

Gail Jacobson 

Vice President, Senior Wealth and Fiduciary Advisor, Bell Bank 

Gail Jacobson works closely with clients on financial planning, investments and long-term strategy. Leadership FMWF has strengthened her connections across the business community and created new opportunities for collaboration. 

The range of experiences throughout the program has been one of the most impactful elements for Gail. Sessions focused on personal development, community engagement and professional growth have broadened how she approaches leadership within her team and beyond it.  

Her takeaway is simple and powerful. Leadership can happen at any level and is something individuals choose to step into at work, in their communities and in their lives.  

“Being a leader can be done from any position.” 

Even as an experienced professional, the program continues to challenge her to grow and stay engaged in shaping the community around her.  

Anthony Sommerfeld 

Office Manager and Senior Project Engineer, Interstate Engineering 

Anthony Sommerfeld leads both people and projects, overseeing office operations while designing infrastructure that shapes communities across the region. 

Leadership FMWF has pushed him to think beyond a technical approach to problem-solving. Exposure to leaders across industries has strengthened how he considers communication, individual strengths and the broader impact of decisions. 

That shift is influencing how he mentors his team and leads within his organization. 

The program has also deepened his connection to the community, leading to greater involvement and stronger relationships across the region. 

“Leadership isn’t about position or authority. It’s about how you show up and your willingness to take initiative.” 

For Sommerfeld, leadership is defined by action a presence.  

Charlie Perhus 

Community Outreach Coordinator, Family Wellness 

Charlie Perhus spends his days building relationships across the community, connecting people to programs that support physical, mental and social well-being. That work already centers on people, but Leadership FMWF has expanded how he approaches it.  

Through the program, he has developed a stronger understanding of his leadership style and the broader community around him. That perspective is influencing how he collaborates and brings new ideas back to his organization. 

The environment of the cohort has been especially impactful. Working alongside individuals from different industries has reinforced that leadership is grounded in how people support one another.  

“The greatest responsibility of a leader is to help those around them succeed.” 

For Perhus, leadership shows up in everyday interactions, across teams, peers and organizations. 

Where leadership takes shape 

Across industries, roles and career stages, one theme continues to surface in the Leadership FMWF program.  

Leadership is built through practice. 

Participants Gail Jacobson, Charlie Perhus and Anthony Sommerfeld are strengthening how they lead, how they connect and how they contribute to the region. 

Applications for the next Leadership FMWF class open April 6. If you are ready to expand your perspective, strengthen your leadership and build meaningful connections, this is where that work begins.