NGA recently wrapped up another successful Executive Leadership Development Program (ELDP), bringing together rising and established leaders from across the independent grocery industry for four days of leadership training at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.
Held May 31-June 4, and supported by longtime program sponsor PepsiCo, the ELDP program continues to serve as one of the industries premier professional development experiences. Designed to strengthen leadership capabilities and strategic decision-making, ELDP combines the following:
- Interactive instruction
- Leadership assessments
- Team-based collaboration
- Comprehensive business exercises
This year’s program featured a leadership panel that included ELDP alumni and PepsiCo representatives, who shared insights on the evolving independent grocery industry. These conversations reinforced the importance of preparing today’s professionals to lead organizations through an increasingly dynamic retail environment. Topics of discussion included:
- The state of the independent grocery industry
- Customer and category shifts
- Partnerships and joint value creation
- Leadership and talent
A highlight of the program was the presentation of two leadership scholarships recognizing individuals who exemplify innovation, service, and a commitment to strengthening the independent grocery industry.
Jamie Hofmann of Rosauers Supermarkets received the PepsiCo Leadership Scholarship for her outstanding leadership and contributions across human resources, public relations, project management, and ecommerce. Her adaptability and collaborative approach have made her an emerging leader within her organization and the industry.
The Women Grocers of America (WGA) Scholarship was awarded to Marquitrice Mangham, executive director of In Her Shoes, Inc., for her transformational work expanding food access throughout Mississippi’s Delta region. Since 2022, Mangham has launched four fresh-food grocery markets and developed a mobile market model serving rural and underserved communities. Her commitment to addressing food insecurity while supporting local farmers and economic development exemplifies the community-centered leadership the independent grocery industry strives to foster.
“Marquitrice exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit and community-centered leadership that WGA is proud to support,” said WGA President Kristie Maurer. “Her commitment to expanding food access, empowering underserved communities, and creating opportunities for local farmers demonstrates the lasting impact strong leadership can have across the independent grocery industry.”
The 2026 graduating class included 39 professionals representing retailers, wholesalers, suppliers, and solution providers from across the country. Their diverse backgrounds from store operations and merchandising to marketing, IT, human resources, and food safety reflect the broad spectrum of leadership shaping the future of independent grocery.
As the grocery industry continues to evolve, programs like ELDP remain essential for developing confident, innovative leaders prepared to navigate change while strengthening their organizations and communities. Congratulations to the 2026 ELDP graduates and scholarship recipients for their commitment to professional growth and advancing the independent grocery industry. Their investment in leadership today will help shape a stronger, more resilient industry for years to come.
You can learn more about ELDP here.
