What is Leadership Spokane? Leadership Spokane is a ten-month long civic leadership training program, based on the principles of servant leadership and cultural competence. The goal is to train “replacement leaders,” ensuring that the community’s pool of talented, trained and committed leaders will continue to be replenished.
When was it founded? Leadership Spokane was founded in 1982 as an outgrowth of Expo 74 by a group of business and civic leaders. Leadership Spokane is one of a national and international network of over 600 community leadership programs and an affiliate of Greater Spokane Incorporated.
What geographic area does Leadership Spokane serve? Students come from throughout the greater Spokane County area. If you have a business or civic interest in the region, please apply.
What does Leadership Spokane expect of me? Students must demonstrate a commitment to personal growth and to policy level civic leadership. Students must have high standards of personal integrity and be able to dedicate the required time to the program.
Who should apply for Leadership Spokane? Whether you’re 25 or 65, new in town, just getting established in your career, or have lived in the region for some time, Leadership Spokane is an ideal vehicle to expand your knowledge of the region’s infrastructure. You become cross-trained by understanding how the system works and what impact your industry has on the system as a whole. You will form lasting and very useful networks with current and upcoming leaders.
Do I have to be formally nominated to the program? No. You can apply on your own, but it is advisable to check with your company to see if it has a formal nomination structure.
How many people are accepted into the program each year? 45 to 50 candidates are chosen for each cohort from an applicant pool of 65 to 75.
How is the class chosen? Everyone submitting a completed application is interviewed. Final selection is based upon combined scores as well as what each individual can gain from the experience as well as contribute to the cohort. The program’s goal is to put together a class that reflects a wide variety of industries and backgrounds, which contributes greatly to a rich and challenging Leadership Spokane experience.
How will I benefit? You will understand and refine your unique role as a servant leader in this community. You will study Spokane 101 (regional economy, education, human needs, arts, communication, governance, and medical/environmental systems), enrich your understanding of diversity and inclusivity, and develop immediately applicable skills in all these areas. You’ll gain access to and become an integral part of the key leadership network that is leading this community into the future.
How will my employer benefit? Employers gain exposure to the community and enhance their leadership stature in the region. They benefit through educated employees and the new skills that they bring back to the work environment.
What is the time commitment? 11 full days, September through June, with an average 2 to 4 hours per month homework.
What presenters are featured in the class sessions? Past presenters have included Dr. Joe Albert, Ivan Bush, Barry Baker, Dale Stedman, Rich Hadley, Jack Heath, Raymond Reyes, Kim Zentz, Ron Wells, Barb Chamberlain, Steve Faust, Chris DeForest, Kelly Lerner, Allen Battle, Marty Dickinson, Randy Shaw, Addy Hatch, Dennis Barts, Angela Brown, Dr. Grant Forsyth, Tobby Hatley, Dr. Robbie Paul, Mayor Mary Verner, Chief Bobby Williams, Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich, Karen Mobley, Maestro Eckart Preu, Christopher Anderson, Marla Nunberg, Ben Stuckart, Dr. Scott Finnie, Lucinda Kay, Mike Forness, Diana Wilhite, Joyce Cameron, Rick Steltenpohl, Nancy McLaughlin, Rhosetta Rhodes, Yvonne Lopez-Morton, Toni Lodge, Tennille Jeffries-Simmons, Dr. Brian Pitcher, and Dr. Nancy Stowell.
Is there an Alumni Association? Yes. The Alumni Association offers continuing education, social activities and service projects for graduates. The Alumni Association also produces the annual Graduation.
What is the tuition? Tuition of $3000 ($2750 with early bird applications received by 5 March 2012) includes all expenses for the overnight retreat, materials and meals for class days, and graduation.
Are scholarships available? Leadership Spokane provides a limited number of scholarships to candidates with demonstrated financial need that would prevent participation in the program.
Candidates employed by large, private-sector companies typically are not eligible.
If I’m not accepted this year, may I re-apply? Definitely. With your permission, we will retain your application for preferred consideration for the next cohort.
More Questions? Join us for coffee and learn more.
Spokane Regional Business Center, First Floor Conference Room, 801 W Riverside
7 February 2012, 7:30 AM
22 February 2012, 4:30 PM
6 March 2012, 12 noon
22 March 2012, 4:30 PM