President and CEO of Leadership Oklahoma, Jodi Lewis spends her days overseeing statewide programs, fundraising efforts and community engagement initiatives. A Bristow native and Oklahoma State University graduate, Lewis has devoted herself to advancing nonprofits and fostering leadership across Oklahoma. We caught up with Lewis and got her thoughts on …
… how Leadership Oklahoma’s mission is shaping the future of the state.
Leadership Oklahoma’s mission — to connect, inspire and support a dynamic network of leaders statewide — has profound implications for the future of Oklahoma’s communities and industries. When leaders from diverse backgrounds, sectors and regions come together with a shared commitment to the state’s well-being, the ripple effects are far-reaching.
Our state has a rich tapestry of cultures and perspectives that make Oklahoma one-of-a-kind. Leadership Oklahoma helps leaders understand our unique communities and industries firsthand, breaking down silos and building empathy. This leads to more thoughtful policies and partnerships that honor the strengths of both urban centers and rural communities. When business, nonprofit, government, tribal and education leaders connect, they bring unique perspectives to shared challenges — whether it’s workforce development, healthcare access, or education reform. These collaborations often generate solutions that no single sector could develop alone.
A network of informed, connected leaders becomes a powerful voice for civic progress. Leadership Oklahoma alumni often take on roles as advocates, board members, mentors and public servants, deepening the bench of leadership across the state. Their influence encourages others to engage more deeply in community life.
… what continues to inspire her.
Working in the nonprofit sector offers a unique and enduring sense of purpose. What continues to inspire many people in this field is the opportunity to create tangible, lasting impact in communities, often with limited resources but limitless passion. Nonprofits often operate in challenging circumstances — tight budgets, shifting policies, community needs in flux. Yet, innovation thrives in this environment. The creativity and determination to “do more with less” is inspiring.
Adaptability is essential. Nonprofits must navigate changing funding streams, evolving social issues and diverse stakeholder needs. Leaders learn to stay flexible, make tough calls with limited data, and pivot without losing sight of core values. The best results come when you elevate others — staff, volunteers, partners and especially the communities you serve. Leadership is less about having all the answers and more about listening, co-creating and making space for others to lead. Ultimately, the nonprofit sector teaches you that change is slow, hard and deeply worth it. Leadership here isn’t about being in front — it’s about walking alongside.
… advice for emerging leaders.
Start with listening. Before acting, take time to understand your community’s needs, hopes and challenges. Listen to people’s stories — especially those whose voices are often overlooked. Attend local events, volunteer and have genuine conversations. Let empathy and understanding shape your approach. Lead with purpose, not position. True leadership isn’t about titles or recognition — it’s about service. Clarify why you want to lead and what values guide you. When you lead with purpose, people are drawn to your authenticity. Meaningful impact rarely happens alone. Partner with others who share your vision but bring different strengths.
Nurture trust and collaboration — progress grows where relationships thrive. Stay grounded and keep learning. Seek mentors and feedback regularly. Reflect on both successes and failures — each offers lessons. Stay humble and adaptable as circumstances and communities evolve. While this may sound cliché, it’s often true: people remember how leaders make them feel. Be transparent, fair and accountable. Always show compassion even in tough decisions — leadership with heart inspires trust. Finally, empower others to lead. The most powerful leaders create more leaders.
… ensuring each Leadership Oklahoma class represents the full diversity of Oklahoma.
Leadership Oklahoma is intentional about ensuring that each class truly reflects the diversity and spirit of our entire state. We do this by being both strategic and relational in our recruitment and selection process. Our goal is to bring together leaders from every region, industry and background — urban and rural, public and private, established and emerging — because we know that the richest learning and most innovative solutions come from diverse perspectives.
We actively recruit across all 77 counties, working closely with alumni, to identify outstanding individuals who represent the full range of Oklahoma’s talent. The selection committee then considers not just professional achievements, but also demographic, geographic and sector diversity to ensure a balanced and inclusive class. Ultimately, the power of Leadership Oklahoma comes from the conversations that happen when people with different life experiences sit at the same table. By embracing that diversity in every sense, we help build a stronger, more connected Oklahoma.
… the biggest opportunities for Oklahoma’s next generation of leaders.
Emerging leaders who understand both Oklahoma’s heritage and future possibilities will be the ones setting new benchmarks in a multitude of sectors throughout the state. Because Oklahoma is diverse in geography, culture and experience, there’s an enormous opportunity for the next generation to bridge divides. Lead by example — when you collaborate across sectors and regions, you model new forms of leadership engagement.
It’s vital for our emerging leaders to tackle the state’s future opportunities and challenges with an attitude of energy, empathy and boldness. In doing this, you’ll not only drive meaningful impact — you’ll help define Oklahoma’s next chapter.
