Leadership Luncheon: Rooted in Community

 

The Puyallup Sumner Chamber of Commerce will be hosting our Rooted in Community: Leadership Luncheon on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 12:00 – 2:00 PM at Pierce College.

This signature event brings together business, civic, and nonprofit leaders from across East Pierce County to celebrate leadership, highlight innovation, and strengthen the roots of our community.

Emcee: Tracey Pidge, VP Business Development, Coleman American Moving Services Keynote presentation: Dr. Donna Van Natten -Understanding Influence Through Body Language

Dr. Donna Van Natten is a nationally recognized expert in the science of non-verbal communication, specializing in how facial expressions, gestures, and behavioral cues influence connection, trust, and leadership effectiveness. Her work centers on the powerful role that body language plays in shaping interpersonal interactions and organizational culture.

With extensive research experience and a dynamic presentation style, Dr. Van Natten has become a sought-after speaker, consultant, and trainer for businesses and agencies across the country. Her insights have helped leaders strengthen communication, build stronger teams, and enhance their overall influence. Her expertise continues to shape how organizations understand leadership development, team dynamics, and the unspoken signals that define human interaction.

Interactive AI: Jermane East

​Jermane East is a workforce development practitioner and AI educator based in Pierce County, Washington. He holds an MBA and a dual B.A. in Business Management and Computer Science (from Whitworth University), grounding his work in both organizational strategy and technical fluency. Guided by the conviction that “Momentum doesn’t happen by chance; it happens by choice,” he equips leaders to turn obstacles into opportunities through AI-powered strategy, systems thinking, and a people-first approach.

Jermane founded Shift The Momentum, a consulting practice that teaches leaders and community organizations to apply artificial intelligence and data-informed decision making without losing sight of people and purpose. He also co-founded the AI Institute for Life Improvement, a nonprofit that offers practical AI workshops and bootcamps for everyday use. His workshops and coaching sessions translate complex tools into practical workflows that improve service delivery and stakeholder impact.

• ​Announcement of the Puyallup Sumner Chamber 2026 Leadership Institute Cohort!

 

East Pierce County Leader Awards/Nominees recognizing outstanding contributions in our community.

• Trailblazer in Leadership - Honors a leader who has demonstrated bold vision, taken risks, and pioneered new paths for their business or community. This person challenges the status quo, embraces innovation, and inspires others to think bigger.

Brandon Simmons, Schoolie Foundation
Shawn Manley, Puyallup Food Bank
Karissa Thompson, Red Canoe Credit Union
Krista Linden, Farm 12
 

• Rooted in Community - Recognizes a leader deeply committed to strengthening East Pierce County through civic engagement, philanthropy, and collaborative partnerships. This honoree consistently gives back, uplifts others, and models what it means to be community minded.​​

Kathy Hayden, Former Mayor of Sumner
Brian Williams, See Ya Later Foundation
Councilmember Lauren Adler, City of Puyallup
Vanessa Barr, Accessibath

• Innovator in Action - Celebrates a leader who has leveraged creativity, technology, or new strategies to solve problems, enhance customer experiences, or grow their organization in impactful ways. This award highlights tangible results and forward-thinking leadership.​

Dennis Folk, Terrafin Real Estate
Luke Moyer, Moyer Production Company
Zach Rinn, Good Automotive