Last Chance: West Des Moines Leadership Academy Application Deadline Nears

The deadline for applications to the West Des Moines Leadership Academy's Class of 2013 is  July 31.

The nine-month program, sponsored by the e, builds on leadership skills emerging business and community leaders already possess and arms them with the additional tools they need to succeed in West Des Moines.

The program meets once a week for nine months, beginning

The Leadership Academy is designed for outstanding individuals who desire to sharpen their leadership skills and gain a greater understanding of the region’s economy and community networks.

"While many fine national leadership development programs exist," the Chamber says on the Leadership Academy website, "we offer a regionally-focused program — taught by local leaders for local leaders."

The Chamber started the academy in 2007 and its inaugural class graduated in 2008.

Since then, it has given scores of West Des Moines leaders an in-depth look at specific topics of community interest, among them city government, economic development, health-care resources, non-profit organization, and education.

The course is designed for those who represent various business and professional sectors of the community, and for those who wish to deepen their knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing our community while developing and refining their leadership skills.

Participants will be selected based upon leadership potential, community interest and involvement, accomplishments, recommendations and ability to assume community responsibility.

“The Academy is a fun, educational and rewarding experience that is designed to meet our community’s needs for active and future involvement of informed and dedicated community leaders,” the Chamber says.

Interested? Apply online.