The Program

• An initiative of the Union County Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with South Piedmont Community College
• A 10-month experience that provides an overview of issues impacting the community and the opportunity to discuss those issues with key community leaders
• An orientation, a weekend retreat designed to build team spirit and explore leadership styles, eight full-day monthly programs, socials and a reception for graduates in May
• A Leadership Union Alumni Association to continue the friendships and network with other alumni who have taken on leadership roles in the community after their graduation
• Leaders and future leaders from diverse backgrounds in business, industry, the professions, governmental and the non-profit communities

History

The first Leadership Union Class began in 1994-95. Initially a class was held every two years, but now due to demand, classes are held each year.

In 1999-2000, Vision 2020, Union County's Citizen-based Long Range Plan, recognized the program as a major strategy to develop private sector leadership and encouraged its continuation and expansion.

The Leadership Union Class of 2003-2004 included 25 individuals who completed the program.

In May, 2002, Bill Norwood was honored with the first Alumni of the Year Award. Norwood is now President and CEO of State Utility Contractors, Inc. and has been active in numerous community and civic organizations since completing the Leadership Union Program.

Charlie Polk, Plant Manager of the Allvac Baker’s Titanium Melt Facilty and a member of the Leadership Union Class of 1995, was honored in 2004 for his community service with the Alumni of the Year Award. Polk has been active in a variety of Chamber positions, including its 1999 Chairman, as well as United Way’s Day of Caring, Vision 2020, Special Olympics, Union Breakfast Rotary Club and is a member of West Monroe Baptist Church where he has held numerous offices.

Admission
Prospective applicants are screened by a committee that will select up to 25 individuals who represent a broad cross section of the community.

Applicants must demonstrate leadership ability and/or potential, community interest and involvement, and esire to take an active role in the community.

Participants are expected to attend all sessions August-May. No more than two absences are allowed. Attendance at Leadership Union socials and Chamber events is encouraged.

Applicants must have the full support of the organization they represent.

The cost of the program is $600. This includes all expenses for the retreat, monthly sessions, graduation dinner and first-year dues in the Leadership Union Alumni Association. A limited number of partial scholarships are available.


Application
Download the application for the 2008-2009 class year in Word format.  
Download the brochure for 2008-2009 in Word format.