For 37 years, the Chamber has offered Leadership Charleston, a 10 month program for professionals offering an intensive and up-close look at various issues impacting our region. Beginning with a two-day retreat in September, followed by one-day sessions each month through June 2011, the program features prominent and stimulating presenters and panelists who encourage discussion and participation. Each session focuses on fundamental leadership principles while examining leadership roles in political, social and economic affairs. Leadership Charleston guarantees increased understanding and change within each participant.

What's in it for you, and for your employer?
Upon completion of Leadership Charleston, each participant will have:

• Strengthened leadership abilities
• Refined skills that can increase organizational effectiveness and efficiency
• Access to an informed network of diverse colleagues for individual, business and community problem-solving.
• Exposure to other community leaders who are committed to concepts of 21st Century leadership
• An understanding of the realities, opportunities and challenges of our community, as well as solutions and alternatives for dealing with them
• An opportunity to position their business as an organization that is committed to improving the community.
• A greater knowledge of the region and its leaders
• An opportunity to become involved with and bring about positive change in our community

Session topics:
Session topics are presented through lively debate, lectures, discussion groups, field experiences, simulations, workshops and case studies. Topics may include:

What is required?
To participate in Leadership Charleston, you will need to:
• Have demonstrated commitment (or be willing to commit), through past and present activities, to help shape the future of our region
• Be willing to commit the time and energy necessary to complete the program (one full day per month)
• Have the backing and full support from your company or organization
• Must be employed by a Chamber member during entire program year (Sept’10-June’11) – Leadership Charleston is a Chamber member benefit
• Tuition for 2011 is $2,195.

Click here to download the Community Leadership Project RFP