Jack and Nancy Dwyer Workforce Development Center, Inc. (DWD), a national healthcare workforce development nonprofit, is proud to announce The Baltimore Banner has selected Megan Heidler, DWD Manager of Program Services, as one of its 2026 Emerging Leaders. Heidler is one of 15 community leaders under the age of 40 to receive this honor, which recognizes those making significant impact in their industries and the Baltimore community.
For the fourth consecutive year, The Banner has highlighted the contributions of the next generation of leaders who are shaping the region’s future. Winners were selected by a committee made up of Banner staff and community leaders and will be recognized at a private event in May.
“Megan embodies what it means to be an emerging leader in our field,” said DWD CEO Barb Clapp. “She has strengthened and expanded the systems we use to remove barriers to entry, increasing access to training and support for aspiring healthcare professionals in Baltimore and beyond.”
“She leads with heart, accountability, and a clear vision for what’s next,” added DWD Chief Engagament Officer Maria Darby. “This recognition reflects not only what she has accomplished so far, but the continued impact she will have on our organization and the communities we serve.”
At DWD, Megan built the organization’s Training Support Center from the ground up—the entry point where all Dwyer Scholars begin their journey. She also oversees the Dwyer Scholar Resource Center in East Baltimore, which provides free access to computers, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and workshops.
Honorees will be recognized at a private event in May and profiled on The Baltimore Banner’s website. View the full list of 2026 Emerging Leaders at www.thebaltimorebanner.com.
2026 Baltimore Banner Emerging Leaders
- April Lugo – Talent Acquisition Manager, McCormick
- Brad S. Fallon – Assistant Secretary for Business Development, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
- Chaitra Gowda – Shareholder, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC
- Dana Blackwood – Business Manager, Turner Construction Company
- Eric Brown – VTC Baltimore Program Director, NCIA
- Grace Caltrider – Chief Operating Officer, Ulman Foundation
- Indira Obichere – Director of Public Policy, United Way of Central Maryland
- Jackie LaMonica – Program Director, Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center
- Lucas Carlson – MD, MPH, Regional Medical Director, Care Transformation – Baltimore Region, MedStar Health Baltimore Region
- Maureen Frowenfeld – MPH, Chief of Staff to CEO, Sr. Director of Strategic Initiatives, University of Maryland Faculty Physicians
- Mauricio Garcia – Supply Chain Manager 2 – Risk Management and Strategic Sourcing, Northrop Grumman
- Megan Heidler – Manager, Program Services, Dwyer Workforce Development (DWD)
- Raj Borsellino – Director of National Philanthropy and Community Relations, Truist Foundation
- Takiya S. Eastmond – Licensee/Founder/Organizer, TEDx Morgan State University
- Timmeka Perkins – Senior Associate, Community Safety, The Annie E. Casey Foundation
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About Dwyer Workforce Development (www.dwyerworkforcedev.org)
Dwyer Workforce Development is a unique 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to provide comprehensive support to individuals who lack opportunity and aspire to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, alleviate a severe healthcare workforce shortage, and improve the lives of seniors and the community at large. Dwyer Workforce Development provides program participants – Dwyer Scholars – Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training, job placement support in healthcare facilities, need-based wraparound services, and person-centered case management to foster successful outcomes. Founded by businessman and entrepreneur, Jack Dwyer and his family, in 2021, DWD’s unique model is redefining what it means to give back by creating career opportunities for those who lack opportunity, reducing healthcare staff shortages, and improving patient care. Handpicked by Jack Dwyer to lead the organization, Barb Clapp serves as CEO, bringing visionary leadership and a deep commitment to equity and impact. Headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, DWD has grown exponentially since inception with a national footprint encompassing Maryland, Texas, Florida, Kansas, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and upstate New York. For more information, visit www.dwyerworkforcedev.org and follow DWD on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.