Applications are now open for the Columbia Chamber's leadership program, Leadership Columbia, for the Class of 2021. The program, founded in 1972, is a 10-month course that provides our community with a well-trained source of leaders who are prepared and committed to serving their region. Approximately 60 applicants will be selected this summer as the 48th Class of Leadership Columbia.
Leadership Columbia aims to: form and develop skills, identify community leaders and motivate them to action; educate through experience and emphasize to advocate in the local community; and encourage applicants to actively participate within their community while developing their skills and talents.
"Leadership Columbia allows professionals to learn about business and economic development, as well as, the ever-present issues in our community in an environment that stimulates connections with one another," said Leadership Columbia Advisory Board Chair, Rachel Popkowski. "Skills and talents obtained in Leadership Columbia can be used across a multitude of professional fields and in ways that strengthen the community."
The class course schedule follows an outline to educate the class on important topics and opportunities in and around Columbia. The candidates will immerse themselves fully exploring topics such as: arts and culture, politics and government, educational and economic development, finance, health services, criminal justice and military affairs, tourism and many more.
"There are many different valuable and unique learning experiences obtained in Leadership Columbia that provide emerging leaders the opportunity to shape their careers through real-world engagement across the Midlands," stated Patrick Cleary, Leadership Columbia Advisory Board Chair-Elect.
For questions, please contact Hilary Bell at hbell@columbiachamber.com.