Class Experience

Class Experience is a year-long program designed for established leaders across the Greater Buffalo region who are ready to deepen their impact and understanding of servant leadership.

Tailored for professionals already serving in leadership roles within corporations, entrepreneurial ventures, civic organizations, and nonprofits, this program challenges participants to expand their vision, question assumptions, and grow as catalysts for meaningful change.

Through monthly sessions participants will engage with a diverse network of leaders, explore critical community issues, and develop actionable strategies to create lasting impact. By collaborating with individuals from varied backgrounds, Class Experience participants will enhance their leadership capabilities while gaining a richer understanding of Buffalo’s unique opportunities and challenges.

This program is ideal for those committed to not only advancing their personal and professional growth but also fostering transformation within their organizations and the Buffalo community.

 

There’s still time to apply! The 2026 Class Experience program application deadline has been extended through November 14.

View the 2026 program schedule and learn more below. 

Apply Now!

 

 

2026 Program Resources

 

2026 Schedule

January 15 and 16
Opening Retreat

February 11
Hunger and Poverty

March 11
Education

March 18
LBU

April 1
Criminal and Social Justice

May 13
Arts, Culture, History, and Tourism

May 20
LBU

June 10
LBU

July 8
Environment and Ecology

July 22
LBU

August 12
Neighborhood and Transportation

September 9
Economic and Workforce Development

September 16
LBU

October 7
Healthcare

November 19 and 20
Closing Retreat

December 9
Graduation

 

 

Who is the Program For?

Class Experience is designed for professionals in the Greater Buffalo region who are established in their leadership journeys and eager to take their skills to the next level. Participants often include corporate executives, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, and civic-minded professionals who share a commitment to driving change. This program is best suited for those ready to challenge their perspectives, build stronger connections, and make a lasting impact on both their organizations and the Buffalo community.

 

What Participants Can Expect

Class Experience is a year-long program, kicking off in January and concluding with graduation in December. Participants will engage in sessions that immerse them in the critical issues shaping the Greater Buffalo region. From examining systemic challenges in education and criminal and social justice to exploring Buffalo's rich arts, culture, and history, these sessions offer a comprehensive look at the forces impacting our community.

Throughout the year, participants will collaborate with experts and peers, develop innovative solutions, and gain a deeper understanding of key topics such as economic and workforce development, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. Each session is designed to challenge assumptions, spark meaningful conversations, and equip participants with actionable strategies to lead with purpose and create lasting impact.

 

 

Integrated Leadership Development

The Class Experience program is enhanced by Leadership Buffalo University (LBU), providing participants with an immersive leadership development journey. LBU consists of specific sessions within the program dedicated entirely to leadership development. These tailored sessions focus on key leadership principles such as emotional intelligence, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and strategic thinking—principles designed to empower participants to lead with purpose. Integrated throughout the Class Experience, these themes ensure that participants develop a well-rounded leadership skill set. By combining the hands-on approach of LBU with the program’s core focus on servant leadership, participants gain both the theoretical knowledge and practical tools needed to drive transformation and create lasting impact in their organizations and the Buffalo community.

 

Program Impact

Graduates of the Class Experience emerge with a deeper understanding of the Buffalo region’s challenges and opportunities, as well as the tools to create sustainable solutions. Many alumni describe the program as transformative—not just professionally, but personally. Equipped with actionable strategies and a renewed sense of purpose, participants leave the program ready to lead with authenticity and inspire meaningful change in their communities.

 

Apply

There’s still time to apply! The 2026 Class Experience program application deadline has been extended through November 14.

A non-refundable $75 application fee is required at the time of submission. Tuition for Class Experience is $5,600 and is non-refundable. Full payment must be received before the program begins, unless special arrangements have been made with the CEO.

Please contact us for additional questions or information.

 

Apply Now!