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Leadership Shoals Class 36 Application (2025-26)

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The application may take up to an hour to complete.
Applications DUE by June 9th, 2025
MISSION
To engage established leaders across The Shoals in conversation that promotes pro-business decision-making, collaboration across industries, and mutual understanding of problems and priorities facing our community.
TUITION

If accepted in the class, the program tuition is $1399 and includes an overnight stay in Montgomery and all meals.

NOTE - Shoals Chamber Advocate level investors receive ONE half-tuition scholarship, Vitality and Mission level investors receive ONE full-tuition scholarship, and Visionary level investors receive TWO full-tuition scholarships for Leadership Shoals as part of their benefits package.
SELECTION

Applicants must be a member of the Shoals Chamber or work for a Shoals Chamber member business.

Selection of class participants will highlight these main areas of focus:
  • a sincere commitment, motivation, and interest to live, work, and serve The Shoals; 
  • an interest in education of regional growth and development;
  • an interest or intention to seek public office, serve on volunteer boards, or engage in community leadership roles;
  • a desire to advance in a career field or organization that serves The Shoals;
  • a recognition of the diversity that exists in The Shoals and a willingness to create bridges and not barriers.
Class participants will represent different industries, cultures, and organizations, and applicants will be reviewed by a committee to ensure least amount of unconscious bias possible. To accomplish this expectation, please provide answers to the best of your ability, comprehension, and honesty. 

NOTE:  Spouses will not be accepted into the same class but are encouraged to apply in alternate years.
2025-2026 SCHEDULE OF SESSIONS

August 5, 2025: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Orientation, Leadership Conference & Retreat
*This session is mandatory for graduation.

September 2, 2025: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Poverty Simulation & Local Non-Profits

October 7, 2025: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
History and Tourism of the Shoals

November 4, 2025: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Education

December 2, 2025: 8:00 - 4:00 PM
Health & Public Safety

January 6, 2026: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Leadership Development

February 3, 2026: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Entrepreneurship / Economic Development & Local Government

March 4 & 5, 2026 (Wednesday & Thursday)
Montgomery, Ala. – State Government
*This session is mandatory for graduation.

March TBD, 2026: 5:30 PM
Graduation Recognition at the Spirit of the Shoals Small Business Awards

Actual times may vary. Activities / topics subject to change.

COMMITMENT & MANDATORY ACTIVITIES

Graduates of Leadership Shoals are expected to attend all sessions as listed in the Schedule of Sessions.

Mandatory activities include
- Leadership Orientation & Retreat
- Montgomery, AL - State Government, Overnight Trip

We realize that unforeseen emergencies arise. You will be allowed to miss one full NON-mandatory day, or two half days, and still graduate with your class. When possible, please notify the Program Coordinator prior to any absence.

If a participant is not eligible to graduate due to absences, the participant will have one year to make up the missed session(s) and graduate with that year's class. It is the sole responsibility of the participant to find out the date(s) & time(s) for any make-up sessions.
1.I am committed to attending ALL SESSIONS.(Required.)
2.Will your employer cover your tuition or will you receive a scholarship with your employer's membership investment?(Required.)
3.Would you like your information to be shared for scholarship consideration?(Required.)