Frequently Asked Questions
What is Servant Leadership?
A philosophy and set of practices enriching the lives of individuals, building better organizations, and ultimately creating a more just and caring world. An effective Servant Leader demonstrates 10 fundamental characteristics in all they do both personally and professionally.
What are the 10 characteristics of Servant Leadership?
- Listening
- Building Community
- Foresight
- Persuasion
- Awareness
- Conceptualization
- Empathy
- Health
- Stewardship
- Commitment to the Growth of People
How will I learn about these 10 characteristics?
Leadership Spokane program offers different sessions, taught by subject matter experts and held at different locations every month. These sessions focus on the 10 fundamental Servant Leadership characteristics. In addition to the retreat, the session titles include:
- Governance
- Regional Economy
- Communication
- Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion
- Education
- Human Needs
- Arts
- Healthy Community
- Stepping Up to Leadership
Who teaches the class?
Local and regional leaders with specific interests and expertise. You will explore the city at a whole new level and learn from the most successful leaders in the area.
What will I get out of the program?
- Community Immersion Experience - Acquire relevant understanding of our community
- Identify opportunities, and increase problem solving skills
- Acquire diversity and cross-cultural competency
- Learn how to set community examples and standards
- Learn "life-long" leadership skills for your professional and personal life
- Improve team building and communication skills
- Learn about practical leadership skills
- Build confidence, self-esteem and enhance social skills through peer-to-peer learning
- Obtain Servant Leadership skills
- Participate in a strong alumni association
- Build relationships across business sectors and differences
What do graduates value after completion of the program?
According to a survey sent to alumni, these are the takeaways valued most -
- Deeper understanding of Spokane - 43%
- Networking - 34%
- Personal Growth - 15%
- Other - 8%
When do applications open and where can I find them?
Applications are available on the website every January until the application deadline date. Applications for scholarships and grants are due at the time of applying.
Are there any required documents
Yes. Along with the completed application, we will need your short answer to an essay question, a photo of yourself, complete a Commitment Statement Form, a Tuition/Grant Form, and a Release of Claims Form.
Do I have to interview to be accepted into the program?
- Flagship: Yes
- Youth: No
Who is qualified to participate in this program?
- Flagship: Anyone interested in expanding their knowledge, getting connected and becoming involved in the Spokane community.
- Youth: Students who are high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors from public, private or home school.
What happens after I apply?
- Flagship: Application packet is reviewed by Leadership Spokane staff, followed by a Zoom interview with the Executive Director and two alumni. A committee of board members review all application materials and select the class.
- Youth: Applications are reviewed by Leadership Spokane staff.
How will I find out if I am accepted or not accepted into the program?
All candidates will be contacted via email and US mail.
Are existing leadership skills necessary for enrollment?
No. All individuals from all walks of life are encouraged to apply. Prior leadership aptitude or pedigree is not a determination.
Can I recommend a participant?
Yes, you can do that here.
How many people are in a class?
- Adult: 50-65
- Youth: 20-40
How much time is expected for the program?
- Flagship
- The adult program is 10 months in length commencing in September and ending in June of the following year.
- Commencement is in June.
- There is a mandatory two-day, overnight retreat in September.
- Participants are expected to attend all class days. Class days are the first Thursday of the month except April.
- Classes average 9 hours - 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
- Outside of class, participants are expected to attend a minimum of four tours, create/give a presentation to the class in groups, and complete a group service project.
- Youth
- The youth program is 10 months in length commencing in August and ending in May the following year.
- Commencement is in June.
- There is a mandatory full day team bonding retreat in August.
- Classes are one evening meeting on the last Monday of the month except December and May.
- Classes average 2+ hours - 6:30 PM to at least 8:45 PM.
- Outside of class, participants are expected for one community service project. The actual number of hours vary depending on the project.
What happens if I miss class?
Joining Leadership Spokane is a time commitment and class times are known well in advance. Should critical personal or business conflicts arise you must contact the Executive Director in advance to discuss if possible arrangements are available.
Do I need to do projects outside of class?
- Flagship: Yes. Leadership Spokane coordinates 30-40 tours per session. Participants must attend a minimum of four of these tours, complete a class presentation and group service project
- Youth: Yes. Outside of class participants are expected to complete one community service project. The actual number of hours may vary depending on the project.
Is transportation provided to site visits?
Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from sites, including parking.
Are meals included?
- Flagship: Lunch is provided*
- Youth: Snacks are provided.
*We aim to consider food allergy concerns when purchasing lunch. Please arrange this prior to the first program day.
What is the cost of the program?
- Flagship: $3,550
- Youth: $150
Costs include all expenses for the retreat, class days, materials, food, and graduation.
Can I set up a payment plan?
Yes. Payment can also be made with VISA, MasterCard, and American Express.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. Partial scholarships and grants are available. Many employers will also cover all or part of the tuition. Additional application paperwork is required if asking for scholarships.
Looking to learn more? Watch the video below!
