WashU Leaders Selected for Prestigious Focus St. Louis Program

In a significant recognition of their leadership potential, three members of the Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) community have been selected to participate in the 2026-27 cohort of Leadership St. Louis, a flagship program of Focus St. Louis. Tracey Hermanstyne-Jordan, Amanda Pope, and Will Werner will embark on a nine-month journey designed to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and network necessary to drive positive change in the St. Louis region.

Leadership St. Louis, established in 1976, is a cornerstone program of Focus St. Louis, a renowned leadership organization dedicated to fostering a community of diverse leaders who are committed to improving the quality of life in the St. Louis area. The program's curriculum focuses on experience-based leadership training, civic issue education, and public engagement initiatives, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges facing the region and the tools to address them effectively.

Tracey Hermanstyne-Jordan, assistant dean of academic pathway programs and an assistant professor in developmental biology at WashU Medicine, brings a wealth of experience in academic leadership and education. Her participation in the program reflects her dedication to not only advancing medical education but also contributing to the broader community development in St. Louis. Amanda Pope, associate chief of staff and executive director of the Office of the Chancellor, offers expertise in strategic leadership and management, which will be invaluable in the context of the program. Will Werner, director of the bureau of administration for the WashU Police Department, contributes a unique perspective on public safety and community policing, crucial aspects of civic leadership.

The selection of these WashU leaders for the Leadership St. Louis program underscores the university's commitment to community engagement and leadership development. Washington University in St. Louis has a long history of producing leaders who make significant contributions to the St. Louis area and beyond. Through initiatives like the Focus St. Louis program, the university reinforces its role as a catalyst for positive change, fostering a culture of civic responsibility and leadership among its faculty, staff, and alumni.

As participants in the Leadership St. Louis program, Hermanstyne-Jordan, Pope, and Werner will join a cohort of established and emerging leaders from various sectors, including business, non-profit, government, and education. Over the course of nine months, they will engage in a series of seminars, workshops, and community projects designed to deepen their understanding of the region's challenges and opportunities. The program's curriculum will cover a wide range of topics, from economic development and education to healthcare and social justice, providing participants with a holistic view of the interrelated issues that shape the St. Louis community.

The impact of the Leadership St. Louis program extends beyond the individual participants. By developing a network of informed, engaged, and collaborative leaders, Focus St. Louis contributes to the creation of a more vibrant, equitable, and sustainable community. As WashU leaders participate in and graduate from the program, they will be poised to make meaningful contributions to the university's mission of teaching, research, and service, while also advancing the well-being of the St. Louis region.

In conclusion, the selection of WashU leaders for the Focus St. Louis program is a testament to the university's commitment to leadership development and community engagement. As Tracey Hermanstyne-Jordan, Amanda Pope, and Will Werner embark on this leadership journey, they will not only enhance their own leadership capacities but also contribute to the growth of a more compassionate, inclusive, and prosperous St. Louis community.