What is the Leadership Academy? It is a nine-month program designed for citizens to learn about every major aspect of community life through presentations, discussions and direct experience.
Who is eligible to apply? Any adult who lives or works in Kettering and is interested in learning about community life and then becoming a community leader.
How are participants selected? The Leadership Academy Board selects participants based on their own merits including leadership potential and demonstrated commitment to the community.
Class of 2006 at graduation
What is the maximum number of participants in a class?
Class size is limited to 16 participants.
Do I need a sponsorship?
You may need sponsorship from your employer or another sponsoring organization to allow time off from your workplace and for the $500 program fee. A limited number of scholarships are available for those who require financial aid assistance.
When is the Leadership Academy held?
Classes meet the second Thursday of every month, October through May, excluding December. There is also a two-day retreat in September. Each class starts at 8:15 am and ends at 4:00 pm.
When should I apply to be considered for the next program?
Application must be made by June for the September program.
What subjects are covered during the program?
Each class covers a different area and includes:
Government
Community organizations
Education
Business community
Service clubs/volunteering
Health care
Public safety
What is a typical class day like?
A typical class covers a selected area and includes:
Overview by experts in the field
Opportunity to experience one or more aspects of that month’s topic
Casual conversation with community leaders
A leadership exercise based on the current class topic
What is expected from the participants?
Participants are expected to:
Attend a mandatory two-day retreat
Attend at least six of the seven classes
Participate in small class teams
Gather information, develop solutions and present them to the class
Complete a community-related class project
Conduct assignment work and activities outside of normal class times
Are there other activities?
Yes, there are:
Board meeting attendance (City of Kettering Council or subcommittee, Board of Education, not-for-profit/service organization
Night observation shift in a police cruiser
Reading assignments
Who speaks at the classes?
A variety of Kettering community leaders representing government, business, church and service agencies will speak and share their experiences at the classes.
Who do I contact for more information?
Visit our Get More Information page to find out more or begin the application process.
