History

Leadership Delaware is a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating and empowering the next generation of leaders who possess the vision, integrity, and commitment necessary to drive positive change within the Delaware community and beyond. Founded in 2008, the organization was established in response to the growing need for strong leadership, particularly at a time when leaders with these qualities were becoming increasingly rare.

The vision for Leadership Delaware was brought to life by the late Governor Pete du Pont and Terry and Sandy Strine, who saw a pressing need to inspire and develop individuals capable of making lasting contributions to the state and nation. These founders recognized that effective leadership is key to overcoming the challenges communities face and believed that through mentorship, immersion, and opportunity, we can rise to the occasion.

In 2021, Jennifer Cohan became the CEO of Leadership Delaware, driving the organization’s growth and expanding its reach. She played a pivotal role in expanding the LDI presence across the state and in launching the Leadership Development Series (LDS) in 2022, a program designed to strengthen participant's leadership and communication skills. 

In January 2025, Mike Eppehimer took over as CEO, bringing a fresh perspective and a strong background in healthcare and leadership development. Mike is committed to strengthening LDI’s programs and ensuring its alignment with Delaware’s long-term goals, positioning the organization for continued success in shaping visionary leaders for tomorrow. 

Today, Leadership Delaware continues to build on the legacy of its founders, working tirelessly to inspire individuals who will lead with vision, integrity, and a commitment to improving the world around them. The organization remains dedicated to its mission of nurturing visionary leaders who can meet the challenges of tomorrow, ensuring that Delaware and the nation will always have leaders capable of bringing about meaningful change.