Program Concept

The Leadership Washington County program was established in 1987 under the name Leadership Hagerstown, in cooperation with the Hagerstown-Washington County Chamber of Commerce. In 2006, the organization became a separate 501 (c) 3 non-profit. The organization began as a response to a need for a common meeting ground of shared concern among leaders in all sectors of the community. A community’s greatest assets are its people and that is certainly true in Washington County, MD. Graduate of Leadership Hagerstown and Leadership Washington County can be found as board members of non-profits, running for office, mentoring area youth, chairing events, managing projects, and helping their own organizations develop and prosper.

Program Goals

The objective of Leadership Washington County is to develop and enhance community leadership by offering participants from diverse backgrounds a unique opportunity to explore, up close and personal, the challenges and issues facing the Washington County community. The Leadership program takes a select group of individuals from diverse backgrounds through an intense nine-month program during which they develop or strengthen their network of contacts and actively engage in issues around topics such as economic development, history, art and culture, education, religion, politics, and social service needs.

Mission

Leadership Washington County exists to develop and inspire excellent leaders dedicated to serving the community and shaping its future.

Vision

Leadership Washington County connects and develops extraordinary leaders deeply committed to fulfilling individual and corporate social responsibility in our community and in the lives of fellow citizens.

Values

Promote excellence through collaboration and partnerships
Realize relevant positive change through forward thinking and dynamic action
Inspire and equip leaders to make our community a great place to live, work and play
Demonstrate integrity, stewardship and accountability in all organizational practices
Embrace diversity, ingenuity and creativity