Leadership Wilkes-Barre

Program History and Concept
Leadership Wilkes–Barre was founded in 1981 in response to the community’s need for a steady supply of leaders who are both familiar with the general structure of the community, its problems and issues, and are also capable of organizing and directing the efforts of others. The nine–month core program is designed to develop well-informed, motivated leaders who have the skills and commitment to work together to strengthen Northeastern Pennsylvania. Leadership Wilkes–Barre is a private, non–sectarian, non–profit organization.

Mission Statement
Leadership Wilkes–Barre seeks to develop informed and committed leaders from all segments of the community who will serve, strengthen, and improve Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Program Objectives
• Bring together current and emerging leaders representing a broad cross-section of the community: business, the professions, government, education, religion, the arts, ethnic and minority groups, service and community organizations

• Develop leadership skills

• Inform participants of the concerns of our community, its problems, challenges, solutions and the resources available

• Create and implement group projects that address needs in the community

• Stimulate a commitment and a responsibility to serve and strengthen our communities

• Build a network of community trustees through class participation

Application Process

Persons interested in being a member of the Leadership Wilkes–Barre class should submit a completed application, two confidential references forms, and a sponsor/participant agreement form to the Leadership Wilkes–Barre office by April 1st. The Leadership Wilkes–Barre Selection Committee reviews each application. Applicants will be notified in writing of their acceptance in May.

Selection Criteria

• Interest in serving the Northeastern Pennsylvania community through volunteer and/or appointed leadership roles or advocacy roles;

• Ability to set and achieve personal goals resulting in a position in their career field that reflects significant achievement relative to age and experience; and

• A record of achievement in community activities that indicates a capacity for increased responsibility including positions of leadership in volunteer organizations.

Each year a maximum of 45 participants from various sectors of the community are selected. The diversity of each Leadership class is carefully considered. Given this factor and the limited class size, some highly qualified candidates are turned down each year. We encourage applicants to re-apply should they not be accepted the first time.

Leadership Wilkes-Barre Tentative Calendar for 2008-09

Date	Session Topic
September 4-5*	Team Building (Opening Retreat)
September 20 (½ day)	Recreation and Tourism
October 2	Vision and Mission
November 6	Collaboration/Human Services
December 4	Consensus/Arts and Culture
January 8	Communications/Media
February 5	Understanding Diversity
March 5	Government: Influencing Public Life
April 2	A Different View of Community: The Justice System
May 7-8*	Leadership and Trusteeship (Closing Retreat)
June 4	Annual Dinner and Graduation

* The Opening and Closing Retreats are held on a Thursday & Friday. Attendance is a must.

Monthly sessions are usually held on the first Thursday of the month from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The opening and closing programs are two-day retreats. Lunch is included at all programs. Program packets are designed to provide participants with background information relating to each topic. A commitment of personal time is also expected to work on projects that serve the community.

Continuing Education Credits
Continuing education credits are available for interested participants.