2010-2011 Leadership Development Institute Leadership is the single most important ingredient needed to develop a thriving and successful community. The future of Southeast Arkansas is more dependent than ever on the quality, commitment, and ability to work together from our leaders.
Recognizing this, the Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute is designed for leaders who want to make a difference in the Arkansas Cornerstone region. It is a skills-based program that broadens participants' perspectives, examines regional and community issues, expands opportunities to develop friendships from all segments of the community, and strengthens leadership skills. Selected participants have a unique opportunity to work with area CEOs, professionals, elected officials, and other fellow leaders as they address community problems.
The Goals
Identify and select highly motivated potential/existing leaders each year to participate in the program.
Systematically educate and challenge the participants as to the needs and opportunities of the regional community and the dynamics of social and economic change.
Develop a spirit of unity among the participants to provide a common ground for working together on present and future projects.
Create a dialogue and rapport between the participants and existing regional leadership.
Stimulate within the participants an increased level of commitment and participation within their communities and regional organizations.
Develop a renewed sense of enthusiasm, regional harmony and positive attitude.
Program
The Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute focuses on key regional community issues and leadership skills.
Monthly day long sessions offer solid, firsthand information and provide opportunities for dialogue about regional issues. The sessions are conducted by leaders in various fields, and each session attempts to address major issues in a unique and exciting format which will result in solutions and plans of action.
The programs developed are intended to provide leadership skills:
Principles of Leadership
Personality Analysis and Interpersonal Communications
Community and Economic Development/Entrepreneurship
Education
Local, State and National Government
Cultural History and Diversity
Personal and Community Finance/Grant Writing Health
Human Services and Workforce Development
Volunteerism
Participation
The Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute will select a class of individuals who represent a cross section of Southeast Arkansas. These individuals are selected on the basis of demonstrated leadership ability as well as evidence of community interest and commitment.
Successful candidates will exhibit the following characteristics.
Demonstrated commitment and motivation to effectively serve in the community and an expressed inter-est in community service.
Demonstrated leadership ability in work and/or in community activities.
Potential for advancement to leadership positions within the region and local communities.
Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute welcomes and encourages applications from men and women from all walks of life. Participants will ideally represent businesses, professions, organizations, government, education, and geographic areas throughout the region. Applicants must live and work in Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Desha, or Drew Counties and must attend all sessions. The application process be-gins in January 2008.
Commitment
Participants in the Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute make a commitment of time, energy and money. Nominees must have the full written approval of the organization they represent. In addition, attendance at all sessions is required; members may miss no more than two session days to graduate from the program.
The intent of the Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute is that graduates of the program make a commitment to continue their involvement in their region and community. This involvement may consist of serving on boards, working with various agencies, or undertaking a community project that addresses some identified need.
Tuition
Tuition for the Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute is $200. Tuition is payable by the participant, employer, or sponsoring organization. The tuition covers meals and program mate- rials. Limited scholarships are available.