Leadership Grand Rapids

About the Program

The Grand Rapids Chamber believes we have it within ourselves to create a community of uncommon greatness. To foster the further development of community trustees, we offer the Leadership Grand Rapids program.

Each year, a class of leaders is accepted into the program to take part in an intensive community and professional leadership program founded on these principles:

  • Community Connections
  • Leadership Skills
  • Diversity
  • Systems Thinking

What it looks like: Through monthly, full-day sessions focusing on key community issues and topics, participants have a chance to deepen their understanding of our community and develop the broad and inclusive mindset needed for community stewardship from a systems perspective.

The Goal: To create a network of community trustees who act on the need, the desire, and the ambition to work for the common good and serve the primary needs of others by holding our community in trust. Ultimately, we’ll drive systems-level change to create a thriving and prosperous West Michigan for all.

Program Details

The Leadership Grand Rapids program has capacity for 40 diverse individuals who:

  • Are a strong leader in their organization and/or community
  • Are motivated and interested in learning, self-discovery, community engagement, peer connections; and how to use this experience to build on their community trusteeship to work for the common good and serve the primary needs of others.
  • Represent a cross-section of business, non-profits, and units of government, professions, ages, cultural perspectives, ethnic backgrounds, and geographical areas throughout the Grand Rapids community
  • Willing to commit to being on time and engaged in all LGR day sessions and assigned pre-work


    Our team intentionally creates a safe and welcoming space where all voices are heard and valued. We encourage open dialogue, active listening, and mutual respect among all participants. Our programs are designed to promote collaboration and understanding, recognizing that diverse perspectives lead to a stronger community for all.
    •  

Session Dates

Class of 2025

Orientation

Opening Retreat

(overnight accommodations provided)

Day Sessions (Thursdays)

Closing Retreat

Applications for the class of 2025 are now closed.

Attendance at all program sessions is mandatory to achieve the full value of the program. Persons who cannot adjust their schedules to accommodate full participation should not apply to the program. If selected, participant employers will be required to provide a signature agreeing to their full support for the employee’s time required to participate in Leadership Grand Rapids.

Photo Release: The Grand Rapids Chamber may take photographs or record videos at events for promotional or educational purposes. By applying for this program, you agree to be photographed, included in video footage or otherwise captured for the Grand Rapids Chamber’s promotional purposes. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please contact Jess Jones, Director of Marketing & Events, so we may accommodate your request. 

Cost and Scholarships

Chamber Member

$ 4,500
  •  

Non-Member

$ 5,000
  •  

There are a limited number of partial scholarship funds available. If you wish to fill out a scholarship form, you will be prompted to do so at the end of your application.

Questions About the Program or Application?

Please reach out to:

Amy de Jonge

Talent & Leadership Program Manager

Program Sponsors

Premier Sponsor

Trustee Sponsor

Chamber Champions