Innovative approach to cultivating leadership

What is DeKalb LEADS?

With a goal to cultivate leaders that are well-informed, well-rounded, and engaged through coaching, connecting, and real-world experiences, DeKalb LEADS, is the premier leadership opportunity driving positive change and civic engagement in DeKalb County. This 10-month program equips participants to Learn, Engage, Activate, Develop, and Serve our community. The program exposes emerging and existing community leaders to the issues that face our region while challenging and empowering participants to strengthen the community through service and leadership.

With the community as their classroom, participants:

  • Develop long-lasting relationships with other leaders.

  • Discover the inner workings of our community and challenges facing our community.

  • Define your individual role and responsibility as a leader within our community.

How do I apply?

STEP 1: Read through the information and decide it DeKalb LEADS is the right fit for you. We encourage you to reach out to DeKalb LEADS Alumni to learn more about their experience and ask for their sponsorship.

STEP 2: Complete online application, create video introduction, and upload all required documents and video.

STEP 3: Selection committee reviews the applications and chooses finalists.

STEP 4: Finalists are interviewed.

STEP 5: DeKalb LEADS Season cohort is notified.

STEP 6: New DeKalb LEADers are welcomed with an open house Meet & Greet Event in July.

STEP 7: If selected, you will receive an invoice for the $750 in tuition fees.

***Tuition is due by the first session day in August. Payment is final. No refunds will be allowed.***

Who should apply?

DeKalb LEADS challenges community champions from all levels of influence to cope with the
complexities of the day, take informed risks, and put what is good for the community at the center of their decision-making both personally and professionally.

We are seeking community members committed to:

  • Leadership and community stewardship

  • Building a diverse long-term network of colleagues

  • Promoting the organization they represent

  • Contributing to the community even after graduation

  • Personal and professional growth that will take their careers to the next level

Join the waitlist!

DeKalb Leads is an annual cohort with applications opening in the spring and the season launching in the late summer. Be the first to know when applications are being accepted. Fill out the form to join the waitlist and we’ll email you when the time arrives!