Written By: Mariann Johnson, VP of Strategic Partnerships
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Learning Doesn’t End with the Diploma
Graduating from school often feels like the culmination of years of effort and learning—but this past year reminded me that some of the most transformative education happens after the diploma. Through my time in the IEEP Regional Leadership Academy, I’ve grown not just in knowledge, but in purpose, confidence, and connection.
From Local Insight to Regional Impact
The IEEP Leadership Academy brought together emerging professionals from across Inland Southern California to develop the kind of cross-sector leadership our region needs. Our sessions weren’t just lectures—they were deep dives into the real challenges and opportunities shaping the Inland Empire.
We explored issues like economic development, workforce resilience, transportation infrastructure, education equity, and public-private collaboration. I had the chance to connect what I knew with what I hadn’t yet considered—seeing how interwoven our systems truly are.
From a behind the scenes tour at CSI Steel, learning how they manufacturer steel beams, to a boat tour at the Port of LA, learning how all those containers that end up on our trains and freeways are loaded and unloaded, we were all exposed to industries we had heard about, but never had the chance to explore. Did you know that SoCal Gas is developing a house that runs on Hydrogen-and the bi-product is pure oxygen that can create cleaner air or be used in hospitals? I didn’t until that visit!
Real Leadership, Rooted in Community
What set the Academy apart was its clear commitment to inclusive, place-based leadership. It wasn’t just about titles or career growth—it was about learning how to be of service to the region we call home. The cohort model made space for all voices, and I was continually inspired by the range of lived experiences around the table.
The Academy emphasized that leadership is less about having the answers and more about building trust, listening deeply, and showing up with integrity. That’s a model I’ve tried to embody throughout the year—and will carry with me long after this program.
We started the year with an activity that showed us how diverse our group was by demonstrating the wide range of industries, education levels and upbringing we all represented. What i enjoyed the most was that, even though we were different, we were all invested in the growth of the Inland Empire. We talked a lot about how the region became what it is today, and why it is one of the fastest growing in the country. There were many conversations about how we all need to be part of the change to help improve the perceptions of the area. So next time someone bashes your hometown, point out that we are the fastest-growing metropolitan area, and the only one in the top 10 without our own media market. That means no one can share our good news but us!
Moving Forward, Together
While the Academy may have wrapped, its lessons remain front and center in how I think, collaborate, and lead. I now feel more grounded in the Inland Empire’s strengths, more aware of its persistent disparities, and more motivated to be part of shaping a future that works for all who live here. I also made connections with people that I hope to know for life. Our cohort shared experiences together and learned from each other, and I can’t wait to continue to know them all!
This experience reminded me that learning doesn’t stop with a diploma—and that the most meaningful education is often the one that prepares us to give back.
If you are interested in being part of the academy, applications are open until August 29. Here is a link for more information: IEEP Application Form