• A sincere concern about the future of our state and commitment to help shape its future.
• Commitment through past and present community involvement.
• A demonstrated capacity for leadership within the individual’s own organization.
• A willingness to commit the energy necessary to complete the program (two years), including monthly attendance at all sessions.
• Employed for more than 6 months by current employer

Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee consisting of members of the Leadership Board of Directors, which is comprised of various Leadership graduates.

Employees, companies, government, and professionals anxious to grow and become more effective.

Due to the maximum class size and the scope of our membership, companies may want to consider no more than 2 of their employees applying for the same cohort.

Class of 2026: $1,125 (usually paid by employer).
Tuition is non-refundable.

Leadership Eastern CT is a dynamic, respected experiential training program designed to strengthen executive skills, community engagement, and professional networks. The Chamber’s community of supporters have generously provided scholarship funding to enhance select participation opportunities. See “Scholarships” for more information.

The PILLARS OF THE COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIP, powered by our Regional Benefactors, invites applicants employed by or running a small business (under 20 total full-time equivalent employees), or by a non-profit, not-for-profit, or municipality, for tuition support of up to 60%. Take your leadership to the next level by gaining tools, insights, and connections to better serve your business and our community.

The ASPIRE SCHOLARSHIP, made possible by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, invites women of color, including black/African American, Hispanic/Latina, AAPI, and Native American, who reside in New London County, to apply for tuition support up to 100%. Take your place among fellow regional leaders to amplify your impact, foster meaningful connections, and drive positive change in our community.

To apply for a scholarships please submit a letter of request with your application, which shall include:

• which scholarship you are applying for
• how this program would benefit you and your organization
• any personal community involvement or passion not already outlined in the application
• whether you are able to participate in the program should you not be selected for a scholarship

Requests for financial assistance do not affect consideration for acceptance.

The program requires attendance one day per month starting in September and ending in June. Each meeting is held at a location appropriate to the topic of the session so that participants gain a broader view of the community. Business, private and public organizations act as hosts for each program. Typical of the year-long session topics are the following:

• Orientation
• Health & Human Services
• Economic Development
• Education
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Military
• Leadership
• Government
• Tourism, Arts & Transportation
• Retreat
• Graduation

Participants are expected to attend all sessions. Only two absences will be permitted for emergency purposes. If candidates are unable to commit to the program schedule, it is not in their best interest to apply at this time. Upon completion of the first year, participants will be assigned to various planning committees (minimum of two) for the sessions of the following Leadership Program year. A participant is expected to attend all planning committee meetings with their respective committees, as well as attend the sessions they assisted in planning.

Each session is planned by a sub-committee of Alumni. The sessions provide participants with a sense of issues germane to the topic. Participants are introduced to the key leaders in each discipline, conducted through a series of discussions, lectures, group discussions and tours. In each session dialogue is established among members of the class. Leadership skills are challenged in a variety of simulation exercises. Finally, participants are asked for regular evaluations so that continuous refinements can be made in the program.

The Leadership Program is administered through the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, Inc. The Leadership Board of Directors governs program structure, budget, fees and candidate selection.

The Alumni provide the direction and support that provides the Leadership Program with a solid, lasting foundation. The Alumni also encourage periodic additional lectures and other updates to keep our graduates in touch with each other and up-to-date with the latest information.