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    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.

    Founded by the three Highlands County Chambers of Commerce and select alumni who now form the Leadership Highlands Advisory Board, the program 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.

    The program includes:

    • An orientation in August
    • A leadership retreat in September
    • Nine themed monthly sessions, each focused on a specific aspect of Highlands County. Leadership development principles are woven into most sessions to enhance personal and professional growth:
    • Agriculture
    • Business & Industry
    • Economic Development
    • Communications & Culture
    • Education
    • Healthcare
    • Tourism
    • Law Enforcement
    • Local Government
    • The Tallahassee Legislative Trip (This trip is in February in even years; April in odd years)
    • A graduation ceremony in June

    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, please contact Kris JuveÌýat 863-784-7189.

    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

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