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Recruitment for the Leadership Northwest Missouri Class of 2027 is now under way! Leadership today is more demanding than ever. We invite you to consider joining us for the Class of 2027, where you will experience a transformative year of high-quality training and powerful regional networking that shapes not just leaders, but communities. Applications are now available with a deadline of November 1, 2026. Application for Class of 2027

Leadership Northwest Missouri is an exciting leadership development opportunity. It brings together participants from throughout a 19-county region to hone their leadership skills, explore regional issues and gain a network of contacts throughout the region.  2027 Recruitment Brochure

With the assistance of program sponsorships, we are able to keep tuition affordable at $1,000. This includes one night of lodging at the Abbey, all session meals and class materials. In addition, we guarantee at least two openings per county, so that all areas, no matter the size, have equal chance to participate.

Partial scholarships are available to potential class members that work for non-profit organizations and are personally funding all of their participation in the class. Scholarships will be granted based on resources, need and the number of scholarship applicants. 2027 Partial Scholarship Application

The application deadline is November 1, annually. (Fully completed applications will assist in the selection process, especially when there is more than one person applying from a specific county.) Space is limited. 

Past Participants Share Their Thoughts:

“Leadership Northwest was a life-changing experience for me! The program challenged me to expand my thinking and blessed me with amazing friendships and an incredible network of like-minded leaders looking to make a difference. I can’t quite find the words to express the impact that this journey has had on my life, both personally and professionally, but I can confidently say that it helped me rediscover my voice, my value and made me strive to be an all-around better wife, mom, leader and coworker.” Shelbie Alexander, Linn County


“Leadership Northwest Missouri is an outstanding program for individuals seeking to develop leadership skills while giving back to their communities in meaningful ways.  As a participant, I got to experience the diverse communities and economies that drive Northwest Missouri, and it has given me valuable insight and practical tools to improve my local area.  Honestly, one of the biggest benefits is the relationships built during the course, and I know those will last long after the program ends.” Mike Hill, DeKalb County

Benefits

Leadership Northwest Missouri will:

  • Provide high quality training to enhance leadership skills
  • Give you the opportunity for in-depth discussions regarding issues facing our region
  • Enhance your ability to look at issues/opportunities in a regional context
  • Identify avenues for active participation at the local and regional level
  • Create a network of regional contacts
  • Provide opportunities to participate in regional class projects
  • Grant Professional Development Hours (60) at no additional cost

Criteria for Selection

Leadership-Northwest-County-Map3

Participants will be selected based on their desire to become a more effective leader in the region. Leadership Northwest Missouri recognizes the strength of diversity and will strive for a diverse class composition. Our region is defined as the following 19 counties: Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, Caldwell, Carroll, Clay, Clinton, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Holt, Linn, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Sullivan and Worth. Each county will be guaranteed one class spot. (If a qualified application is not received from a county, the unused space will be available to anyone within the region.) Applicants will be selected based on the county in which they reside or work. The Selection Committee reserves the right to review and select applicants from outside the defined region.

Time Commitment and 2027 Class Dates

Classes will meet monthly beginning with a two-day retreat on January 20 and 21. They will continue at locations throughout the region on February 18, March 18, April 15, May 13, June 3 and June 17. Graduation will take place the evening of July 15.

Regular classes begin at 9am and adjourn by 4pm.  There will be required evening activities on January 20.

There will be two required Zoom sessions for Class Project Planning on April 22 and May 20 from 4pm-5pm.

Mission Statement

We build, strengthen, and inspire leaders through training and networking experiences.

Vision Statement

We envision thriving communities and dynamic leaders.