Jane Fischer (center, kneeling), creative change facilitator with the Creative Education Foundation, is shown here with members of the Chautauqua Leadership Network Class of 2025. On Nov. 7, Fischer is conducting a leadership workshop, presented jointly by the Chautauqua Professionals Group and the Jamestown Young Professionals.

LAKEWOOD – The CHQ Professionals Group and the Jamestown Young Professionals (JYP) will host an interactive professional development workshop titled “Agile Leadership through Improv” on Friday, Nov. 7 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union Community Training Center in Lakewood.

The session will blend the principles of applied improvisation with the mindset of agile leadership. In today’s fast-paced workplace, leaders must adapt quickly, communicate clearly, and collaborate effectively — skills participants will practice in a fun, low-pressure environment.

Through hands-on activities, attendees will learn to stay resourceful under pressure, think creatively in the moment, and strengthen team dynamics. Participants will walk away with practical tools to lead with confidence, respond to change with agility, and inspire innovation in their work and community.

The event will be facilitated by Jane Fischer, creative change facilitator with the Creative Education Foundation, and is open to professionals from across Chautauqua County. The cost to attend is $15 and includes lunch. To register, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals.

Fischer is a creativity trainer with more than two decades of experience designing and leading educational sessions, professional development workshops and creative group experiences. A seasoned improv comedy performer, she translates core improv principles — such as presence, spontaneity, “yes, and” thinking, and embracing uncertainty — into practical tools for communication, collaboration and adaptability.

“Programs like this give local professionals the chance to grow and connect in new ways,” said Monica Simpson, co-chair of the CHQ Professionals Group. “We’re excited to bring something fresh and engaging that helps people strengthen their leadership skills while having fun.”

“Jane brings an incredible mix of creativity and practicality to her workshops,” said Daniel Siracuse, Northern Chautauqua Community Relations Coordinator with the United Way of Chautauqua County and member of the JYP planning committee. “Her approach to leadership through improv helps people tap into new ways of thinking — it’s about staying agile, listening deeply, and responding with empathy and confidence. That’s exactly the kind of mindset we want to nurture among emerging professionals and community leaders across Chautauqua County.”

This event is being sponsored by Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union.

CHQ Professionals Group is an initiative housed under the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) and aligns with its effort to build and strengthen workforce readiness and development. In addition to hosting educational, volunteer, and networking events, the Professionals also distribute a monthly newsletter, share local job postings, and are actively seeking partnerships related to workforce development.

JYP is a network of United Way of Chautauqua County that is designed to attract, grow, and mobilize the next generation of leaders for whom giving back to the community is a core value. Though named “Jamestown Young Professionals,” JYP’s programming and reach extend countywide and remains the only networking group in Chautauqua County focused specifically on young professionals. In addition to networking events, JYP provides opportunities to learn, serve, and lead — from professional development workshops to community volunteer projects and collaborative events with partner organizations.

For more information or to purchase tickets, email CHQProfessionals@gmail.com, call 716-363-3770, or visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals.