Leadership Winter Park

What is Leadership Winter Park?
Leadership Winter Park is an adaptation of a nationwide community-awareness, leadership preparation effort. The program identifies and promotes potential leaders from the business community who desire to become involved in making a difference in the Winter Park community. The program offers a behind the scenes look at and study of the critical issues and challenges facing Winter Park. It features already known community leaders who are interested in broadening their contacts and shared visions. Allows for networking opportunities.

Who is eligible?
Each class is comprised of 35-40 individuals who live and/or work in Winter Park, and are interested in becoming involved in the decision making process within the community and home, a desire to enhance Winter Park's quality of life and are already active in local civic or professional organizations.

What is the time commitment?
The program, extending from September through May, begins with a mandatory overnight orientation retreat, followed by eight monthly day-long sessions. The sessions are held the second Thursday of each month. Graduation festivities will follow the final session. A commitment to 100% attendance is expected from all participants.

What occurs at the day-long sessions?
Each session will highlight a different aspect of the community, and will address a variety of issues. Topics to be studied will include History & Environment, Government, Education, Arts & Culture, Business & Economy, Human Services, Health & Wellness and Sports & Leisure. The sessions will feature lectures and symposia by local leaders, consultants and professional educators. These will be supplemented by on-site visits, small group discussions, leadership development tips, case studies and group interaction. Participants will be introduced to those in authority within each field, and have access to information not readily available to the general public. Curriculum is designed to stimulate inquiry, analysis and development of public policy alternatives to a number of current community issues.

What is the cost of the program?
The tuition of $2,000 for Chamber members and $2,500 for non-members covers all expenses and materials, including the orientation retreat, all meals and graduation festivities. Financial assistance may be available on a limited basis, upon request.

How do you apply for the program?
Contact Debra Hendrickson at (407) 644-8281 for a brochure and application or click HERE. The deadline for Class 21 applications is July 16, 2010.