Celebrating the 2026 Store Leadership Development Program Graduates
Developing great leaders has always been a cornerstone of The United Family’s commitment to growth and opportunity. For more than a decade, the Store Leadership Development Program (SLDP) has provided aspiring leaders with the tools, experiences and mentorship needed to take the next step in their careers while strengthening the future of our stores.
Designed for department managers who are ready to grow their leadership skills, SLDP offers an immersive, eight-month learning experience that provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of store operations. Beginning each spring, participants rotate through departments across the store, gaining firsthand experience in areas outside their current roles while learning how each department contributes to the overall success of the business.
In addition to hands-on training, participants take part in leadership development classes, team-building activities, and a variety of learning opportunities throughout the company. The program includes tours of The United Family’s Distribution Center, R.C. Taylor, and USM Manufacturing, giving participants a behind-the-scenes look at the operations that support our stores. Along the way, they also engage with retail field supervisors, business directors, and district managers who share valuable insights and leadership perspectives.
This year’s graduating class demonstrated a strong commitment to personal growth, teamwork, and continuous learning. Throughout the program, the team members embraced new challenges, expanded their knowledge, and developed skills that will help them lead with confidence in the years ahead.
“The Store Leadership Development Program continues to be one of the best examples of our commitment to growing leaders from within,” said Robin Larson, Leadership Development Manager for The United Family. “Watching participants challenge themselves, build new relationships and gain confidence throughout the program is incredibly rewarding. I’m proud of everything this year’s graduates accomplished and excited to see the impact they will make across our organization.”
Please join us in congratulating the 2026 Store Leadership Development Program graduates:
Brittany Bendure, Cory McDermott, Courtney Skelton, Cynthia Newton, Danielle Montano, Dexter Johnson, Dylan Peterson, Greg Lomas, Lee Patterson, Joshua Harrington, Justice Ashmore, Kamden Wilson, Kera Rogers, Rhett Biehahn, Robert Placencio, Ryder Gray, Sabrina Christy, Sebastian Price, Shannan Baum, Tiffany Torres, and Vivian Barbosa.
The United Family is proud to celebrate this accomplishment and recognize the hard work, dedication and passion each graduate brought to the program. Congratulations, Class of 2026! We look forward to seeing all that you accomplish as you continue your leadership journey and help shape the future of The United Family.
