Each year, Leadership DeKalb accepts nominations and applications for candidates to participate in our 10-month leadership development program.
Each spring, Leadership DeKalb accepts nominations and applications for candidates to participate in our 10-month leadership development program.
Throughout the program year, members of the class view DeKalb County from many angles, learn about the issues facing the region, and discover the impact they can have as well-informed leaders.
Class sessions are held on Thursdays from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Opening and Closing Retreats will be overnight from Thursday to Friday. Click here to download the schedule.
*Mandatory attendance required.
Please note: The program schedule is subject to change with notice to class participants.
If you live, work, or care about DeKalb County; are experienced in or committed to service to the community; frequently serve as a community volunteer; and are an emerging or established leader in your profession, then you have the qualification to apply to Leadership DeKalb.
Leadership DeKalb celebrates the richness of DeKalb County’s diversity and seeks class members who represent the community. Adults of all ages are encouraged to apply.
You do not have to be a resident of DeKalb County to be eligible for this program.
You may be nominated by a Leadership DeKalb alumnus and the application link will be sent to you once the applications open or you may apply online once applications open.
Nominations can be made on-line or by emailing info@leadershipdekalb.org.
During the ten-month program, class members learn about a wide range of issues facing DeKalb County, build leadership skills and begin networking across the DeKalb community. Between the Opening and Closing Retreats, there are eight full-day sessions on topics including DeKalb’s government; health; educational and justice systems; infrastructure, core values; quality of life and more. Class sessions are usually held on a Thursday of each month from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Class members also expected to complete a ride along shift with the DeKalb County police or fire department or participate in another criminal justice or public safety experience. In addition, class members are assigned to a small group and are required to meet once a month outside of the program day.
A $50 non-refundable application fee plus a tuition of $3,950 upon acceptance into the ten-month leadership development program.
A limited number of partial scholarships are available. To be considered for a scholarship, you must submit a scholarship request form along with your application for acceptance into the program.
The Selection Committee, comprised of Leadership DeKalb alumni, select class members each year to represent all aspects of the DeKalb community, including representatives of business, non-profits, education, government, the justice system, religion, the arts, and community volunteers. A demonstrated commitment to community service is a major selection criterion.
