Established in 1987, in cooperation with the Hagerstown/Washington County Chamber of Commerce, the purpose of Leadership Washington County (formerly known as Leadership Hagerstown), is to enhance the quality of life of the community by enhancing the quality of its leaders.

This is done by giving participants an opportunity to delve into the challenges facing our community. The experience begins with a weekend retreat followed by nine months of intensive community orientation and involvement. Over the course of nine-months as participants meet, up close and personal, with community leaders and area experts, discussing issues facing the Washington County community — issues including economic development, health and human services, criminal justice, education, history, state and local politics, culture and quality of life.

After nine months of intensive study and dialogue, individuals who go through the program have a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the complexity of the community and are uniquely positioned to make meaningful contributions. Leadership Washington County graduates go on to:

• chair community projects
• serve on boards
• volunteer their time
• invest in the Washington County community

Selection Process

Leadership Washington County seeks potential leaders was well as individuals who have already attained leadership positions in the community and/or their places of employment.

A representative group is selected annually from the for-profit and non-for-profit business sectors, as well as representatives from government, education, and religious organizations and other community groups.

Nominations are sought from all segments of the community and individuals are encouraged to nominate themselves.  A Selection Committee that itself is representative of the Washington County community chooses participants from written applications. The program accepts a limited number of applicants and not all applicants are accepted. If not accepted, applicants are urged to reapply the following year, and deposits can be held for up to one year.

Tuition

Tuition for the 2013-2014 program year is $2,650 and may be paid by the individual or the sponsoring business or organization. A limited number of partial scholarships are available for the 2013-2014 program year for non-profit leaders and small business owners.

Class Size

To ensure the quality of the experience, class size is limited. Approximately 30 individuals are invited to participate each year.