SAVE THE DATE: TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2026
Keynote Speaker
Dave Wheeler
Chief Operating Officer at New Balance
Dave Wheeler serves as Chief Operating Officer at New Balance, a global leader in athletic footwear and apparel. Since joining in 2017, Wheeler has been instrumental in driving operational excellence and strategic growth across the company’s global footprint. He oversees end-to-end operations, including product development, global planning, sourcing, manufacturing, logistics, quality assurance, innovation and construction, ensuring that New Balance delivers premium products to athletes and consumers worldwide.
Under his leadership, New Balance has achieved record performance, tripling revenue and volume while navigating unprecedented challenges such as global supply chain disruptions and the COVID-19 pandemic. Wheeler spearheaded initiatives to modernize manufacturing, expand advanced production capabilities, and strengthen sustainability practices. His vision emphasizes agility, innovation, and customer-centric execution.
Prior to joining New Balance in 2017 as Senior Vice President of Global Supply Chain, Wheeler held senior leadership roles at Cintas Corporation, where he helped grow revenue from $1 billion to $6 billion, and at Union Pacific Railroad, managing billion-dollar capital programs and operational planning. He began his career as an avionics engineer with the U.S. Department of Defense, developing advanced systems for the F-16, YF-23 and YF-22, laying the foundation for his expertise in complex systems and operational strategy.
Wheeler holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from Merrimack College and an MBA in Supply Chain and Finance from Miami University. He is a Six Sigma Master Black Belt and a recognized thought leader in supply chain transformation. Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Wheeler serves on the Board of Directors for the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry, the Advisory Board of Z100 and advises organizations focused on innovation, sustainability, and workforce development.
A passionate advocate for integrity, teamwork, sustainability and continuous improvement, Wheeler believes that operational excellence is achieved through alignment of strategy and execution. Wheeler has been married for over 30 years and a father of two, he resides near Boston, Massachusetts.
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Location
Central Catholic High School
Gymnasium
300 Hampshire Street
Lawrence, MA 01841
Sponsorships
Even in times of uncertainty, Lawrence continues to move forward, driven by the resilience of its people and the strength of its partnerships. The Lawrence Partnership exists to help our community not only navigate change, but to seize opportunity, and this moment calls for exactly that kind of leadership and optimism.
As we gather for our Annual Meeting this year, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose. While challenges remain, Lawrence is building momentum. Employers are investing, students are aspiring higher, and community leaders are stepping up with creativity and resolve. Together, we are laying the groundwork for lasting opportunity and inclusive growth.
Our Annual Meeting is a public event that brings residents, businesses, nonprofit partners, and civic leaders together to celebrate progress, recognize outstanding community leadership, and share a clear vision for the future. We are proud to provide food and an open, welcoming space that reflects the inclusive spirit of Lawrence and ensures everyone has a seat at the table.
Your sponsorship makes this gathering—and our broader work—possible. It is an investment in Lawrence’s future and a vote of confidence in what this community can achieve when we work together. With your support, the Lawrence Partnership continues to expand workforce pathways, strengthen educational attainment, and deepen community engagement—creating opportunity today while building a stronger tomorrow.
We would be honored to count on your support once again as a sponsor of our Annual Meeting, at a level meaningful to you. Your partnership helps ensure that Lawrence’s story continues to be one of progress, possibility, and shared success.
Please see the information below outlining this year’s Annual Meeting and sponsorship opportunities. We kindly ask that you confirm your sponsorship commitment by May 20, 2026.
Thank you for believing in Lawrence and for helping shape a future defined by opportunity and hope.
Warm regards,
The Lawrence Partnership Annual Meeting Subcommittee
Socrates De La Cruz
Gary Sidell
Lesly Melendez
