LEADERSHIP   EDUCATION   AWARENESS   DEVELOPMENT

The mission of L.E.A.D. Athens is to develop effective leaders committed to building a vibrant community.  The vision of L.E.A.D. Athens is to become the premier program inspiring leaders to exceed both their individual and collective potential.

The networks built in L.E.A.D. Athens are invaluable.  Participants are guaranteed to walk away from the program with an experience that will last a lifetime.  L.E.A.D. Athens helps individuals exceed their highest aspirations and work to build a stronger, better community.

This is an intense year long program that explores a myriad number of issues. Participants delve into economic development at a state, regional and local level. They learn what we ahve now and explore how we need to address the future. They also come to understand the workings of the healthcare system and local government.

Excellence in education is critical in our community and participants get a full view and experience of our educational system. They scrutinize everything from kindergarten to the area's five colleges and universities.

Quality of life is a tremendous drawing card to the area and L.E.A.D. Athens explores the greenways, walks historic neighborhoods and  visits downtown historic preservation efforts.

Intense, well rounded and fun are words that describe the L.E.A.D. Athens experience. Each year the programs are themed arounf movies. The 2005 "movie schedule" was:

June – “Around Athens in One Hour” – Orientation to L.E.A.D. Athens

Augugust – “Close Encounters of the L.E.A.D. Kind” – Leadership Retreat

September – “Deep Impact” – Regional Economic Development

October – “Remember the Titans” – Introduction to area Business & Industry

November – “Back to the Future” – K-12 and Higher Education in Athens-       Clarke County

December – “The Incredibles” – Health & Human Services

January – “Heidi” – Local Government & Politics

February – “Courage Under Fire” – State Government & Politics

March - “As Good as it Gets” – Quality of Life in Athens-Clarke County

April – “A Night at the Academy Awards” – Graduation

Participation in L.E.A.D. Athens is based on a selection process.   Nominations for the 2006-2007 class will be accepted beginning in January 2006.  Applications will be due in March 2006. Interested persons/businesses should contact Rich Cary at the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce – (706) 353-0502 or rcary@athensga.com.