Leadership River Region

Our Mission

Leadership River Region educates, engages, and empowers a diverse group of business professionals to foster the growth of dynamic leaders for St. James, St. John, and St. Charles parishes by broadening the knowledge of socio-economic influences and inspiring leaders to collaborate.

Leadership Program

Each year, up to 25 individuals are selected to participate in a ten-month educational program that includes an opening retreat, seven monthly half-day sessions, and a class project. Participants receive in-depth exposure to the critical issues facing the river region parish community through lectures, discussion groups, on-site visits, simulations, and other leadership development activities. Issues to be addressed during the year include healthcare, government and law enforcement, regionalism, education, parish perspectives (2-part session), and arts and culture. The location and format of each session is different. The program enables participants to develop their leadership capacities, build strong relationships, and prepare themselves to grow and engage their surrounding communities.

Program Benefits

• Our leadership program delivers quality leadership development through a range of dynamic speakers, discussions, and skill-building activities
• Designed to broaden participant knowledge of the community while enhancing leadership skills
• Extraordinary networking opportunities exclusive to class members
• Inspires participants to take an active role in contributing to the community

Who Should Apply

Participation is open to any individual who resides or works in the River Region; however, the number of participants accepted each year is limited. Similar programs have participants that include corporate executives, educators, bankers, attorneys, entrepreneurs, homemakers, volunteers, retailers, physicians, elected officials, clergy, realtors, health care providers, firefighters, police, parish council, tourism, a host of other industries, and YOU! Whether you are currently in a leadership role or aspire to be, anyone invested in the future of the River Region can benefit from this program.

When participants are selected each year, it is with an eye toward diversity to encourage collaboration of ideas and viewpoints. The program is not a starting point but rather a professional development opportunity for men and women who are both acknowledged and aspiring leaders.

Participant's Expectations

Commit to the entire program with the understanding that there are no refunds. Individuals unable to complete the attendance requirements will not graduate from the program. Participants can miss up to two classes, not including the mandatory opening and closing retreat(s). Participants missing more than two classes will not be allowed to graduate.

Application Checklist

1. Check your calendar for availability on the program dates. Only two excused absences are allowed.
2. Send the Application Fee of $35.00 to the River Region Chamber office or contact the River Region Chamber for credit card payment.
3. We must receive the application and fee by September 6, 2024.

Application Process

You will need the following information nearby to complete the application, as you cannot revisit the link to complete it later.

• Contact Information
• Demographic Information
• Employment Information
• Biographical Information
• Resume
• One Letter of Recommendation
• Program Commitment

Class of 2025 Planning Calendar

• Application Period: June 26, 2024 – September 6, 2024
• Informational Meetings (Virtual): TBD
• Applications Due: September 6, 2024
• Notifications/Seat Class of 2025: September 11, 2024
• Class Meet & Greet (Alumni invited): September 25, 2024

Opening Retreat (MANDATORY) - October 9, 2024

The Opening Retreat marks the commencement of the leadership program, setting the stage for a year of learning, collaboration, and personal growth. This full-day event introduces participants to the program's objectives, structure, and expectations while fostering a sense of community among the cohort.

 

Online Application

Sponsorship Opportunities

 

The River Region Chamber of Commerce Foundation is a 501c3 organization; this investment may be tax deductible as a business expense. Please consult your tax advisor.