our programs
Application Info
PROGRAM CONCEPT
The Leadership Washington County program was established in 1987 (under the name of Leadership Hagerstown), in cooperation with the Hagerstown-Washington County Chamber of Commerce. In 2006, it became a separate 501(c)3 organization. It started 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 here in Washington County. More times than not, you’ll find graduates of the Leadership Washington program sitting on the boards of non-profits, running for office, mentoring area youth, chairing events, managing projects... all the while helping their organizations grow, succeed and prosper.
Application Information (PDF)
Printable Application Form (PDF)
OBJECTIVE
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 course during which they develop or strengthen their network of contacts. Program participants actively engage in issues around topics such as economic development, history, art and culture, education, religion, politics, and social service needs.
IMPACT
In a very unique way,Leadership Washington County is helping to build a better, richer community by tapping into the talents, passions and intellectual capital of the women and men who live and work here. The program’s curriculum encourages critical thinking and creative problem solving. As a result of the experiential and cooperative learning opportunities, aspiring leaders return to their organizations more connected to the community overall and more knowledgeable about being a true leader. Additionally, participants in the program develop an increased interest in local issues, which often leads to increased community nvolvement.
PROGRAM DESIGN
The Leadership Washington County program begins with a mandatory two-night retreat, September 10-12 and continues with a series of monthly day long sessions that ends in June. The curriculum for these programs features prominent speakers who address specific issues concerning Washington County. Topics covered during the monthly sessions include: the history of Washington County and its people; business and economic development;local and state government;politics and the decision making process; health and human services; education; and arts and culture.
To accomplish the objectives of the program, the full participation of each individual is required.
Participants must be able to comply with the retreat and monthly attendance requirements free from personal and business responsibilities except in the case of emergencies.
Participants unable to meet the attendance requirements are asked not to apply.
SELECTION PROCESS
Leadership Washington County seeks potential leaders was well as individuals who have a ready attained leadership positions in the community and/or their places of employment.
A representative group of approximately thirty participants is selected annually from the for-profit and non-for-profit business sectors, both public and private, private and public sectors as well as representatives from government, education, 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 greater Hagerstown community chooses participants from written applications.
The program is limited in 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.
The Class of 2010-2011 will be selected from applicants who have submitted the application form, resume, letter of recommendation and deposit postmarked by March 26, 2010.
TUITION
Tuition for the 2010-2011 program will be $2,500.00 and may be paid by the individual or the sponsoring corporation or organization. A $50 application fee (non-refundable) should come from the applicant.
A deposit of $500.00 is due with the application.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
The Leadership Washington County experience extends beyond graduation. Non-profits from the area look to members of the Alumni Association to serve on their boards and to chair community projects. Members of the alumni association enjoy other benefits and networking opportunities as well. In addition, alumni serve as Board members, trustees and are an important resource for current program participants. Want to join? Click here for a listing of benefits. (PDF)
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in the news
New Executive Director
The Board of Directors is pleased to announce the new Executive Director of Leadership Washington County, Dr. Tara Horst.
Hot Topic Day - Tourism
Class XXIII learned about Tourism in Washington County.
Business and Economic Development Day
In March, the class focused on Business and Economic Development.
