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 have now and explore how we need to address the future. They also come to understand the workings of the health care 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 around movies such as "Close Encounters of the L.E.A.D. Kind," "Back to the Future," "Remember the Titans," and graduation in April is L.E.A.D. Athens' version of the Academy Awards.

Applications for 2009-2010 class are being accepted through April 17.  For additional information: leadathens@athensga.com or call the Chamber at 706-549-6800.