Leadership Academy
Download Leadership Application
Committed,
Community,
Camaraderie
Leadership is not a one-day thing. It
is a constant commitment to excellence,
a habit . . . a daily practice.
- John F. Kennedy, Jr.-
In the early 1990’s, the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce began offering the seven-session Leadership Academy program to highlight aspects of the community that have enabled Branson’s success and prosperity and to help community members increase their understanding of the city, its legacy and all that the area has to offer.
The class of about 25 is selected by an application process and comprise longtime community members as well as some new to the area. Each applicant is interested in learning more about their community to enable them to become more involved. The academy requires a 2-year committment of each applicant.
A selection committee, comprised of Leadership Academy graduates, will review each application and conduct an interview with every applicant. A limited number of individuals will be selected to participate in the academy. Applicants will not be excluded from equal consideration due to age, race, sex, religion or membership in community organizations.
“Through the process, they not only become friends, but make great business contacts,” said Bethany Thomas, Senior Vice President of Membership and Funding. The sessions may include a variety of speakers, tours that have included going inside Table Rock Dam to see the power generators and backstage in one of the area’s largest theaters.
What is the investment?
Tuition for the Leadership Academy is only $350 and
covers all program costs for the participant, including
the overnight retreat, meals and supplies.
The Mark & Casey Bass Scholarship
There is one scholarship available in honor of Leadership
alumnus Mark Bass and his wife Casey, an active
community leader. The scholarship covers 100% tuition
and is awarded to an individual whose employer
does not have the resources to sponsor their participant.
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants
must submit a letter of request explaining their financial
circumstances and their desire to participate.
Year one of the academy consists of seven full day sessions over a period of three months. Area professionals, volunteers and leaders will share their expertise and perspective on a variety of topics. Early in the program, an overnight retreat is held for the participants to “get acquainted” and enjoy team building exercises and other activities.
First Year sessions will include:
Week One
The Evolution of the Tri-Lakes Area
Gain an appreciation and understanding of the
history of our community.
- Area historians share memories and stories
- Marketing history of the Tri-Lakes Area
Week Two
Government Issues & Concerns
Learn about city, county and state government
issues.
- Meet political and community leaders
- See how governmental issues impact our community.
Week Three
Retreat
Get to know your 2009 Leadership Team.
- Build lifelong friendships
- Learn about personality differences to help your personal and work relationships grow stronger.
Week Four
Community Services, Activities & the
Arts
Meet representatives from area charitable
organizations.
- Learn how you can make a difference in the community.
- Complete a charitable work project.
Week Five
Media, Marketing &
Business Communication
Listen to area media, marketing and business
professionals share their expertise.
- Area marketing information.
- Get media tips from the professionals.
Week Six
Economic Development & Infrastructure
Focus on the area’s economic health and future.
- Hear from a variety of industries.
- Tour an economic development project.
Week Seven
Environment & Recreation
Become committed to preserving the
environmental quality of our community.
- Hear from proactive environmentalists
- Tour facilities that work to protect our environment.
Week Eight
Taking the Lead: Graduation
Take the lead and envision the future.
- Gain the knowledge needed to be a strong leader.
- Reflect on how you will impact your community in the next year.
- Gather for the final session...GRADUATION!
The Two-Year Commitment:
Year two of the Leadership Academy involves the active participation of the new graduates in developing curriculum for the next year’s class, including the recruitment of presenters and selection of class participants. Additionally. graduates volunteer their time and energy to a community service organization for a minimum of one year.
Have questions or would like to see who has been through the Academy? View a list of Leadership Academy Alumni by NAME or by CLASS.
