Leadership Springfield:

“Strengthening Our Community One Leader at a Time”

Our community needs leaders from all walks of life.  Many of you are leaders in your daily life through family activities or in your business or organization.  You or those around you recognize your leadership potential.  Leadership Springfield is an opportunity for you or for an emerging leader you know to take the next step.  Every year, a new class of emerging community leaders is recruited to participate in an eight month series of seminars and experiences representing the kaleidoscope of life and commerce in the greater Springfield vicinity.

What is Leadership Springfield?

Leadership Springfield is an eight month series of seminars in which participants gain leadership skills and in-depth exposure to critical issues affecting the Springfield area. Participants will meet community leaders and decision makers who share their perspective on significant problems and opportunities.

Topics for programs:

n History of Springfield & Sangamon County

n Agriculture, the Environment & Regional Planning

n Race, Religion & Justice

n Education & Economic Development

n State Government

n Tourism, Community Events & the Arts

n Healthcare & Social Services

Why Participate in Leadership Springfield?

It is an opportunity to expose tomorrow’s finest leaders to the necessary knowledge, experiences, and most importantly, people. And as we provide this atmosphere for continual professional development, we ensure the growth and success of Springfield for perpetuity.

Who are the participants?

Leadership Springfield is limited to 32 individuals that are selected from private, public, and nonprofit organizations representing diversity in gender, social, and economic backgrounds. Chances are that as you read this article, you either work for or work with a Leadership Springfield graduate. They proudly represent a cross-section of our community’s private, public, and nonprofit organizations. So, as a responsible citizen of Springfield, ask yourself if you or someone you know has what it takes to experience Springfield to its fullest while gaining invaluable leadership skills. Take the challenge and apply for the 2006-2007 Leadership Springfield program.

How do I apply?

Applicants must be willing to commit the time required for all program sessions and project.  All applicants must fill out an application and attach a resume. The Leadership Springfield Selection Committee will make selections based on the written information.  Tuition fee of $825.00 covers all training, materials, and monthly meals. Scholarships are available.

What is the next step?

If you are interested in participating or nominating someone for participation in Leadership Springfield, contact Sharon Theison, Leadership Springfield Coordinator, at the Chamber office at 525-1173 or stheison@gscc.org.  You can also download an application from this site.