Leadership Polk
What is Leadership Polk?
Leadership Polk is a Polk Vision program that brings together leaders from across Polk County who have demonstrated a commitment to civic engagement within our local communities. We seek individuals with a desire to expand their knowledge and involvement on a county-wide level. Over the course of ten months, we explore the “hot topics” facing Polk County through facilitated conversations, group interactions, expert presentations, location tours, and experiential learning. By participating in Leadership Polk, you will build relationships with other passionate, influential and positive-thinking leaders, and you will have a greater understanding of Polk County as the larger community that we all share.
Leadership Polk Goals
- To educate and engage demonstrated leaders from various geographic, occupational and economic segments of Polk County.
- To familiarize the participants with a wide range of community issues facing Polk County and the municipalities within the county.
- To build a collaborative network of community leaders who can make a difference in Polk County.
How can I apply?
The class selection process begins each spring with a call for nominations. We accept nominations during the month of April each year. All of those nominated, and only those nominated, will be invited to submit an application in May. The selection process for 2013 is currently closed as we have moved into the application phase. We will accept nominations for Class VIII in April 2014. If you would like to be notified when we are accepting nominations, please email leadershippolk@polkvision.com.
How is the class selected?
Class members are selected based on their leadership abilities, career accomplishments, volunteer activities, contributions to the community, and commitment to work towards a collaborative and thriving Polk County.
Applications are given to a confidential Selection Committee, which closely examines them and performs the difficult task of selecting a representative cross-section of leaders as members of the upcoming class. Leadership Polk does not discriminate because of age, sex, race, religion, or national origin.
Because the program is limited in size, many qualified individuals must be deferred. Those not accepted in a given year may be considered again in subsequent years if they wish to reapply.
What is my commitment?
Leadership Polk requires a serious commitment of time and energy. All dates are published in advance for planning purposes. If you work for a company or organization, their support is essential. If you are self-employed you will need to evaluate the requirements of the program as compared to your available time.
Click here to view the Class VII Calendar for 2013 – 2014
What topics will be covered?
Topics for the program will include Economic Development, Regionalism, Quality of Life, Infrastructure, Government, and Education.
We will also visit a variety of locations in Haines City, Davenport, Lake Hamilton, Dundee, Lakeland, Mulberry, Polk City, Lake Alfred, Auburndale, Frostproof, Highland Park, Hillcrest Heights, Lake Wales, Winter Haven, Eagle Lake, Fort Meade & Bartow.
What does tuition cover?
Tuition covers the opening retreat accommodations and meals, 6 day-long sessions, luncheons and refreshments, and Graduation luncheon for participant and a guest.
Tuition for Leadership Polk is $1,850. Partial scholarships may be available, please contact us for more information.
Contact information:
April Mucci
Leadership Polk Program Coordinator
leadershippolk@polkvision.com
863-646-0439 ext. 3
