• Pages

    • Leadership Highlands

    Leadership Highlands:
    Developing Community Leaders Since 2000

    Since its inaugural class graduated in 2000, the Leadership Highlands program has been cultivating leaders with a deep understanding of Highlands County, a strong commitment to its future, and an appreciation for the richness of its diverse communities.

    Leadership Highlands was founded by local businessman Morris Adams in collaboration with the three Highlands County Chambers of Commerce. Today, the program operates under the guidance of the Leadership Highlands Advisory Board and ³ÉÈ˶¶Òõ. The advisory board includes representatives from all three Chambers as well as key alumni who are committed to the program’s continued success. Leadership Highlands is dedicated to identifying and developing local leaders who will positively impact the county for years to come. A critical component of participant selection is a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and the potential to apply leadership skills for the long-term benefit of Highlands County.

    Participants are immersed in a yearlong experience designed to increase their knowledge of Highlands County’s infrastructure, agencies, economic drivers, and community needs. The curriculum fosters connections between emerging and established leaders, encouraging dialogue, collaboration, and civic engagement.

    Leadership Highlands exists to:

    • Identify and connect community leaders from diverse backgrounds
    • Develop participants’ leadership potential and inspire civic responsibility
    • Build awareness of the challenges and opportunities facing Highlands County
    • Promote a practical, inclusive understanding of leadership in a complex society
    • Encourage active involvement in local processes, programs, and volunteer efforts

    For information about enrollment or participation, contact Tina Gottus at 863-784-7466.

    Now accepting applications! Deadline: July 14, 2025
    Take the next step in your leadership journey.

    Schedule for 2025-26

    Aug. 28, 2025 – Orientation, 3-5 p.m.
    Sept. 12-13, 2025 – Session 1: Team Building Retreat, 8 a.m. Friday-12:30 p.m. Saturday
    Oct. 16, 2025 – Session 2, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
    Nov. 6, 2025 – Session 3, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
    Dec. 4, 2025 – Session 4, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
    Jan. 22, 2026 – Session 5, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
    Feb. 23-25, 2026 – Session 6, Legislative Session in Tallahassee
    March 26, 2026 – Session 7, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
    April 16, 2026 – Session 8, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
    May 14, 2026 – Session 9, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
    June 4, 2026 – Session 10, 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m./Graduation 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

    ***All sessions are subject to change. Ample notice will be given in the event of modifications to the published dates.

    Leadership Highlands Alumni

    Has your contact information changed?

    We’d love to stay connected!

    Please take a moment to update your contact information using . Please update any sections where your information has changed since your time in Leadership Highlands. If you’re unsure, feel free to take a quick moment to review and update as needed.