thank each of those who contributed a thumbnail piece on the featured leader in each category ).  The descriptions of everyone else were cobbled together based on comments and insights from nominators and others around the sector, with editorial license. As I have said before, this is, I believe, important because these people largely determine how the debates in our sector are framed and what the agendas will be.  They drive our discussions of policy, and they are the people who control much, if not most of the money, and decide where the funding goes (at least in broad swatches).  They influence what issues should be on the front burner, and what we talk about when we meet. They define our goals and objectives, our priorities and the positions we take -- and even the way we do things.  They can 'green light' new programs and projects and are chiefly responsible for prioritizing which challenges we address. In large part, they are our most experienced and knowledgeable people -- our best thinkers, and established power brokers. Some of them represent specific segments within our larger community; others have at-large platforms. They have varied, substantial, and sometimes eclectic resumes and experience.  Some have served in the field for a long time; others are newer to our ranks. I think it of value to know who we think these people are.  Like every other field or profession, there are those in the nonprofit arts who are powerful and influential.  To pretend that