Columbia VA Celebrates 2026 LEAD Program Graduates
By James Branch, Public Affairs Officer
The Columbia VA Health Care System recognized the graduates of its 2026 Leadership Effectiveness Accountability Development (LEAD) Program during a special graduation ceremony on June 11, 2026, celebrating the next generation of leaders committed to serving Veterans.
Over the course of six months, Carrie Domingo, Gary Donald, Tamera Ferguson, Sharon Hannah, Kathryn Harwick, William Hughes, Elaine McNeil, Jonathan Pruett, Jarama Rajah, Alyssa Stutzman, Erica Taylor, and Ke’Asia Wilson engaged in a comprehensive leadership development curriculum designed to strengthen leadership competencies, enhance strategic thinking, and prepare employees for expanded roles and responsibilities across the organization.
Through classroom instruction, mentorship opportunities, group projects, and practical leadership exercises, graduates gained valuable skills to support both their professional growth and the Columbia VA mission.
The LEAD Program reflects Columbia VA’s commitment to investing in its workforce and developing leaders who will help shape the future of Veteran care. Participants were challenged to think beyond their individual roles, gain a broader understanding of health care operations, and identify innovative ways to improve services for Veterans and their families.
During the graduation ceremony, Executive Leadership Team members commended the graduates for their dedication, perseverance, and willingness to step outside their comfort zones in pursuit of personal and professional growth.
"Leadership is not a destination—it is a journey of continuous learning, service, and improvement," said Jeffrey Soots, Columbia VA Acting Executive Director. "By investing in their development, they are investing in the future of our organization and the Veterans we are honored to serve. We are proud of their accomplishments and look forward to the positive impact each of them will make."
The graduates presented capstone projects highlighting opportunities to improve processes, strengthen collaboration, and enhance the Veteran experience throughout the health care system.
The LEAD Program continues to play a vital role in cultivating talented, mission-focused leaders who embody VA’s core values of Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.
Congratulations to the 2026 LEAD Program graduates on this significant achievement and for their commitment to leadership excellence in service to America’s Veterans.