Routt County Commissioner Angelica Salinas has been named a 2026-27 Obama Foundation Leader, joining over 150 changemakers from across the globe in a program that inspires leaders in the public, civil and private sectors to create lasting change, states a Monday news release sent by Salinas.

Salinas will be one of 50 leaders participating in the Leaders United States program, an eight-month virtual leadership development program that seeks to inspire and connect leaders across the country.

As a county commissioner, Salinas helps oversee strategic governance, policy development, constituent services and a $135 million county budget. Her efforts have centered on expanding civic engagement, creating leadership pathways that better reflect rural and working-class communities, demystifying local government and encouraging local residents to serve on boards and commissions. 

As part of the eight-month program, leaders will meet virtually each week for sessions designed to help them create change by honing their leadership skills, building deep relationships with their peers, and engaging with thought leaders and members of the Obama Foundation community. 

Leaders will also have an opportunity to participate in virtual experiences and special events, including discussions with experienced mentors in the foundation’s global network.  

Now in its fourth year, The Obama Foundation Leaders USA Program is guided by the leadership values of President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle. The program draws on the Foundation’s Hope to Action curriculum to support leaders in “embracing diverse perspectives, harnessing collective power, and driving tangible progress toward a more just and sustainable world,” states the release.

The Leaders United States program has a particular focus on strengthening democratic culture. The 50 leaders from this year’s class come from 29 states and territories and work across a broad range of areas, including democracy and civic engagement, public safety, artificial intelligence, public health, rural and economic opportunity, and arts and culture.