Community Leadership Institute accepting applications 

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for the 2020 Class of its prestigious Community Leadership Institute (CLI). The Community Leadership Institute is dedicated to providing participants with individual leadership skills and a deep understanding of the twenty-seven communities that comprise North Central Massachusetts.

The Chamber created the Community Leadership Institute, formerly known as Leadership North Central, in 1998, to inspire a new generation of men and women to enthusiastically assume important roles in the community. Over the last 20 years, more than 250 participants have graduated from the Community Leadership Institute and become leaders in their communities.

The nine month program consists of a full-day session each month and focuses on exploring critical issues to the region. Topics explored include: Education, Government, Health Care, Social Services, Justice System, Media, Arts and Culture, Environment and Economic Development. The program also includes a group service project, various immersive

experiences in the community and a formal graduation ceremony in June at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting.

Each CLI class is limited to no more than 25 participants. Successful candidates for the program are sponsored by their business and must demonstrate the motivation and potential to lead within business or community. In addition, they must also be considered high performers in

their organization and be either a recognized leader or on a leadership track. Successful candidates should also be curious about the external issues facing the region and interested in developing new relationships and open to challenging their own point of view. The program challenges individuals from diverse backgrounds to be influential in our region’s future.

Applications for the Community Leadership Institute are being accepted through September 13 2019 for acceptance into the 2020 graduating class. Accepted students in CLI will be notified no later than Sept. 27. To find out more about the program, or to apply, visit North Central Mass.com/CLI or contact Kathleen Deal at 978.353.7600 ext. 235.