2026 Leadership Columbus Application

Leadership Columbus is a leadership development program designed to prepare and inspire individuals to meet the future challenges of the Columbus area. Participants will be motivated to develop and enhance the quality of their leadership and skill in serving their community. Goals Identify resourceful leaders, both existing and emerging, who have a sincere commitment to remain in the Columbus area. Develop leadership skills that encourage creative problem-solving and community engagement. Individuals who wish to improve their personal leadership skills and have a desire for personal growth opportunities should apply. Increase their potential for civic responsibility through an understanding of the opportunities, challenges, and resources available in the area. Motivate and encourage participants to assume community leadership roles. Supplement the training received by the participants in this program in such a way as to maximize their contributions to their employer and sponsoring organizations. Create a permanent forum to exchange ideas for the benefit of the community. Encourage active community involvement through volunteer service at Chamber events and activities. Program Expectations Participants are expected to actively engage in all program sessions and activities. Each participant will be required to volunteer a minimum of two (2) hours at a Columbus Area Chamber Workforce Development Program during the class year. Selection Criteria The most important factor in selection is identifying those individuals most apt to utilize their leadership for the long-term benefit of the community. Basic criteria for achieving this selection are: 1. Selecting those individuals with a sincere commitment, motivation, and interest to serve in the community. 2. Select those who have demonstrated commitment by past community activities. 3. Selection of those currently interested or intending to seek key volunteer leadership roles, board service, commissions, or public office. 4. Select those with potential or existing opportunities for advancement to leadership positions within their own organization, which in turn may play a significant role in the community. 5. Select those with occupational commitment to remain in Columbus or are not likely to be transferred within the immediate future. Tuition: $600 (details below) Applicants or their employers must be members of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce. Nonmember applicants who apply and are accepted will be billed for a Chamber membership with their Leadership Columbus tuition. The deadline date for submission of your application is June 30, 2026. This form is the only way applications will be accepted. Additionally, please email your current resume to info@columbuschamber.org. Your resume must be submitted by the same deadline.