Guided by Faith, Empowered by Forge: Samantha’s Forge Story

Samantha Lehner’s journey into politics and public service didn’t start as a clear path. It was born out of a season of searching. Graduating from college in 2021 amid the turmoil of the riots and the ongoing pandemic, Samantha found herself reexamining her beliefs and priorities.  

“Up until that point, I would have described myself as liberal. I wanted to be independent, didn’t want anyone to tell me what to do, and thought I could be a ‘girl boss.’ But when I saw the riots burning down our country and when I heard false propaganda ravaging the ears of young, influential students, I knew that I could no longer flippantly go along with the politics of my generation.”

Guided by her faith and the Holy Spirit, Samantha began intentionally listening to other perspectives and seeking truth for herself. “It was through this searching that Jesus placed a fire inside me to get involved in the public square and to speak up for common-sense, foundational, biblical truth.”

Samantha alongside other Forge Fellows volunteering at the 2025 Nashville Summit

A lifelong Ohioan, Samantha grew up in the small, close-knit farming town of Johnstown, where conservative values and faith shaped her upbringing. She attended Ohio University from 2017 to 2021, earning a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. Initially, Samantha had envisioned a career in investigative journalism, fueled by a passion for writing and a love for storytelling. But her senior year, during the height of the COVID pandemic, shifted her focus. “My senior year of college (during COVID) was pivotal in re-shaping my passions and interests, and eventually led me to where I am today.”

After graduating, Samantha returned to Johnstown and started her career in marketing within the hospitality industry. But her desire to serve in a more mission-driven role soon led her to the Center for Christian Virtue in Columbus, Ohio. “I applied for a position, got hired, and I couldn’t imagine working in any other atmosphere.”

Samantha alongside Monty Lobb, Director of the Christian Business Partnership, and James Banko, Program Manager of Christian Business Partnership and Forge Fellow 

Samantha first heard about Forge through a friend who had experienced the Leadership Summit and Academy. Recognizing Samantha’s growing interest in conservative politics, her friend encouraged her to apply, assuring her that Forge was the perfect entry point into the political arena. Despite feeling new and somewhat overwhelmed by the prospect, Samantha’s experience far exceeded her expectations. 

“I thought that I would be ‘behind’ or would be the ‘least educated’ at the Summit, but Forge equipped me in the most intentional, well-rounded ways. Everything we did at the Summit was with purpose, kept me engaged, and gave me a glimpse into what my future could look like.”

Forge has become even more than career preparation for Samantha.

“Forge truly elevates your career and professional life. It’s also an outlet of like-minded believers that care deeply about you and want to champion around you through every journey of life.”

Now working on the Communications team at the Center for Christian Virtue, Samantha credits Forge with giving her the confidence and clarity to lead in her role.

“Because of Forge, I gained confidence in myself to take the reins of my current position and walk into each project truly feeling as if I belong here. The training provided by Forge also aided in my job. It helped me see the bigger picture of my career, knowing that I have a bigger impact for the Kingdom and that regardless of the professional paths we take, our political action is helping to restore our country, as intended.”

2024-2025 Forge Academy Graduation in Washington, D.C.

The friendships Samantha formed through Forge have been foundational to her political journey. “My Forge friendships are some of the deepest friendships I have. The close friends I’ve made through Forge are there for me at every turn. I truly talk to them almost every single day. I know these relationships are long-lasting, and they have helped provide a space for me to lean into when I’m facing a professional or personal challenge.”

Looking ahead, Samantha sees Forge continuing to fuel her passion for politics and the public square. “I feel inspired by the Fellows I meet and by seeing the incoming Summit students. Forge has helped me zone in on where I want to be in the future.”

That is what Forge supporters gave Samantha: a bold network of passionate conservatives standing together, advancing the cause with conviction, and making an impact in communities and states across our nation.

Thank you for reading Samantha’s Forge Story and supporting the mission and vision of Forge Leadership Network!

Sincerely,

Adam Josefczyk
Forge Leadership Network
Co-Founder & President