Rising Leaders

Rising Leaders program brings together up-and-coming 21st century leaders, ages 22 -35, from diverse backgrounds and perspectives in order to increase their ability to be effective agents of change. By developing an in-depth knowledge of the critical issues facing Western New York, by understanding and practicing effective collaborative leadership, by sharing hands-on experiences, and by networking with other leaders, Rising Leaders class members will be able to become more influential in important decisions facing the region. Retreat

Participants will gain:

Individual and interpersonal leadership skills
Experience with conflict resolution and negotiation
Knowledge of strategies for adaptive/systemic change
An understanding of the complexities of the critical issues facing WNY
Exposure to many of the individuals and organizations currently addressing those challenges
The opportunity to meet, engage and develop long-standing relationships with other emerging leaders from broad ethnic, geographic, socio-economic, racial, religious, and professional backgrounds
A network of community leaders including over 700 members of Leadership Buffalo

THE RISING LEADERS EXPERIENCE

Leadership Buffalo's Rising Leaders program is unlike any other in the Buffalo Niagara region. Participants should expect a powerful experience, one that will develop many of the skills and abilities necessary to successfully lead. The program is presented in a series of monthly sessions (mornings or evenings) plus one two-day, overnight retreat.

The challenge, concept, and practice of 21st century leadership will be explored along with such key topics as economic development, criminal justice, healthcare, human services, education, race relations, regionalism and local governance, Buffalo's heritage, and the arts.

SCHEDULE REQUIREMENTS

The program is presented in a series of monthly sessions (mornings or evenings) plus one two-day, overnight retreat. Participants will be expected to do monthly homework assignments, including some experiential assignments (attend a legislative session, special tour, or cultural presentation) that will be scheduled at a time other than the day or evening sessions.

Attendance at the entire Opening Retreat is mandatory for participation in the Rising Leaders program. Class members are expected to attend all day/evening sessions. Two absences will be allowed for emergencies only. Consistent absences will result in dismissal from the program.

SCHOLARSHIP ASSISTANCE

Scholarship assistance is available to candidates with demonstrated need. To be considered for assistance, candidates must submit a separate financial aid request form with their application.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Individuals, ages 22 - 35 who have demonstrated leadership within their volunteer or career activities and/or have the interest and potential to pursue leadership roles in the Buffalo Niagara community are encouraged to apply.

Candidates should be able to show their potential and desire to lead through personal commitment or leadership activities in high school, college, current volunteer roles, or career positions. Individuals must be willing to devote the necessary time to being an active member of the Rising Leaders class. A maximum of 35 individuals will be selected to participate in Leadership Buffalo's Rising Leaders program. Those candidates not selected for the current class are encouraged to reapply.

MEMBERSHIP

Graduates of Leadership Buffalo's Rising Leaders will be considered full members of the Leadership Buffalo organization and, upon payment of annual dues, will be eligible for continuing educational, networking and social opportunities with over 800 members of Leadership Buffalo.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Candidates must provide two references with their application, and obtain signatures from their supervisor showing permission for time away from work and financial sponsors showing the parties that are responsible for paying all tuition not covered by scholarship assistance. Faxed, incomplete or late applications will not be considered for review.

Rising Leaders Application

Rising Leaders Information Sheet

Rising Leaders Financial Aid Application

We are currently accepting applications for the class of 2010.