About Leadership - Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, FL

Leadership Winter Park is a program of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce that equips and mobilizes advanced-level leaders and community trustees for Winter Park and our region. The program is an adaptation of a nationwide community-awareness, leadership-preparation effort and offers a behind-the-scenes look at and study of the critical issues and challenges facing Winter Park.
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What have graduates said about their experience?

“I would encourage anyone interested in learning more about our community to apply. Participation in the class introduced me to decision makers in the fields of local government, education, healthcare and not for profits. The social aspect of the class introduced me to other business leaders in Winter Park. It has been rewarding to watch as my classmates’ careers have flourished over the last 10 years.”

– Rebecca Wilson, Shareholder, Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A., Class XVI

“Making the investment to take part in Leadership Winter Park was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my business. One of the clients I met through LWP opened the door to many others which led to my business having its most profitable year to date!”

– Andrew McIntosh, Co-Founder, MVProductions, Class XXVI

“Through participation in Leadership Winter Park, I was able to create some stellar relationships with industry leaders from all over the Metro area. The size and intimate setting was conducive for strong relationship building.”

– Kris Gault, Senior Account Manager, Director of Corporate Partnerships, Orlando Magic, Class XXV
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible?

Each class is comprised of individuals who have an interest in Winter Park, and are eager to become involved in the decision-making process within the community, have a desire to enhance Winter Park’s quality of life and are already active in local civic or professional organizations.

What is the time commitment?

The program, extending from August through May, begins with a mandatory orientation retreat, followed by eight monthly day-long sessions. Graduation festivities occur at the culmination of the program in May. A commitment to 100% attendance is expected from all participants.

What occurs at the day-long sessions?

Each session highlights a different aspect of the community, and addresses a variety of issues. Themes include History, Government, Education, Arts & Culture, Business & Networking, Human Services, Health & Wellness and a day of action and next steps after graduation. The sessions feature lectures and symposia by local leaders, consultants and professional educators. These are supplemented by on-site visits, small group discussions, leadership development tips, case studies and group interaction. Participants are introduced to those in authority within each field, and have access to information not readily available to the general public. Curriculum is designed to stimulate inquiry, analysis and development of public policy alternatives to a number of current community issues.

What is the cost of the program?

Tuition for Leadership Winter Park is $2,400 for Winter Park Chamber of Commerce members and $2,700 for non-members. This fee covers program expenses and materials, including the orientation retreat, all meals and graduation festivities.
Are there scholarship options?
We are thrilled to offer three partial LWP scholarships. Scholarships will be awarded in these categories:

Barnes Small Business Scholarship - Eligible candidates are small business owners or entrepreneurs that live or work in Winter Park

Non-Profit Scholarship - Eligible candidates work for a 501(c)3 tax-exempt nonprofit or civil service organization

Your request for a scholarship in no way influences the selection process and will remain confidential. Please contact Minette Marcial at mmarcial@winterpark.org to learn more about scholarship options.
How do I apply?

Click on this link to be directed to the Leadership Winter Park Class XXXII online application. If you have any questions, please email Minette Marcial at mmarcial@winterpark.org.
COVID-19 Update:
The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce wants to reassure our guests that we are taking every precaution to ensure your safety as we resume some in-person meetings and events.

We will strictly adhere to all state and county executive orders, including those dictating the number of people allowed to gather at specific events.

The Chamber’s pledge is to:
- Provide enhanced cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces
- Require social distancing
- Make hand sanitizer readily available
- Stay up to date on health-safety guidelines and executive orders
Guests will be required to:
- Have their individual temperature taken by a Chamber staff member upon arrival and, if it is above 100 degrees, the guest will not be permitted into the building.
- Wear a mask upon entering and leaving the building
- Bring your own pen
- Stay home if you are sick or not feeling well
In addition, upcoming Leadership Winter Park sessions are planned to be held live with adaptations for safety procedures.