Leadership Sanford

leadership sanford participants standing in a group

Shaping Sanford NC’s Leaders of Tomorrow

The Leadership Sanford program aims to provide a continuous, diverse supply of creative leaders to the community by developing their knowledge of the region and providing them the opportunity for meaningful action.

The program begins in September and concludes in June with a graduation ceremony, presenting topics designed to provide both personal development and community enrichment. The sessions give participants an in-depth look at a range of topics of community interest and importance by experts and community leaders.

Building Next-Gen Leadership

The Leadership Sanford program objectives are:

  • To select highly qualified potential and emerging leaders who are most likely to give to the community through service and have the potential to assume expanded responsibility.
  • To provide participants with the knowledge necessary to create a deeper understanding of the community and the issues facing it.
  • To enhance and sharpen their leadership skills by providing an environment where consensus building, group problem solving, and creativity are encouraged.
  • To educate participants in making sound judgments and explore solutions to problems in business and the community.
  • To challenge graduates of the program to serve as volunteers on appointed and elected boards, participate in community work, and offer their services in government and non-profit organizations.
  • To communicate the benefits of Leadership Sanford to the community.
leadership sanford participants staning in front of a mural of cows in a pasture of green grass

Future Leaders of Lee County

The program is limited to 20 participants. Open to residents of Lee County who have demonstrated leadership aptitude and who represent a cross section of interested, motivated, and concerned citizens. After a thorough review of all submitted applications, the participants will be selected in an effort to form a group of geographic, racial, gender, and occupational balance.

leadership sanford participants standing on steps

Tuition Information

Tuition for the Leadership Sanford Program is $1100 for Chamber members and $1350 for non-Chamber members. This fee covers all expenses, including assessments, program materials and meals. Any applicants interested in tuition assistance may submit a written request. A limited number of partial scholarships are available.

leadership sanford participants standing in front of a rainbow colored mural

Schedule and Class Information

Classes meet monthly for a full day session from September through June.

Class Topics Include:

  • City and County Government
  • Communicating with Your Community
  • Economic Development in Lee County
  • Ethics and Etiquette
  • Leadership Challenges
  • Leadership in Public Education
  • Political Leadership
  • Understanding Leadership Styles
a group of leadership sanford participants participating in a team building exercise

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!

Susan Gomez headshot, Sanford Chamber director

Susan Gomez