Leadership Winter Park

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.

Who is eligible?

Each class is comprised of 45 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 overnight orientation retreat, followed by eight monthly day-long sessions. The sessions are held the second Thursday of each month. 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 $2,200 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. Financial assistance may be available on a limited basis, upon request.

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

How do I apply for the program?

Applications for Class XXIX are now being accepted through June 1, 2018. For more information contact Tiffany Cahill at 407-644-8281 or tcahill@winterpark.org.