The Bingham Fellows Class of 2009 Creating a Cool Region: The Next Generation of Talent The issue: How do we identify the next generation of talent who will help create a cool region to attract the jobs and workforce of the future? Corporations are struggling with the challenge. And so are communities. That's why we need your leadership skills as part of the 2009 Bingham Fellows class to help to develp innovative solutions. This issue is a key component to the regional economic development strategy currently underway by Greater Louisville Inc. and the Wired 65 initiative. Objective The Bingham Fellows Class of 2009 will identify, develop and connect the next generation of leaders to build a stronger region.  Their goals will include: Expanding community and civic engagement of the next generation of “creative workers” and professionals throughout the region.  Cross connecting the region’s emerging leaders with established leaders to build and more effectively leverage the region’s social capital. Shaping and developing a cross-sectional regional alliance/partnership of young professional and creative organizations.  The Class of 2009 will put their leadership skills into action by working together on projects that will set the stage for our region to become a “cool” community for the next generation of talent. Possible Activities Explore the region’s multiple approaches to attracting the next generation. Identify the extent to which organizations for young professionals and “creative workers” exist and thrive in the region.  Examine how well this region builds leaders capable and ready to lead in the new knowledge economy. Explore how to make the 26-county region a cool region. Research similar successful case studies in other regions of the U.S.  Use the occasion of the Leadership Louisville Center’s 30th Anniversary to connect with the region’s next generation of talent.  Engage the Bingham Fellows Class of 2008 and other Leadership Louisville Center program participants and members for support in this effort.  Interested? Learn more... Hear why there was so much buzz around nationally-known consultant Rebecca Ryan's visit to the recent regional leadership summit. View KET's interview with Rebecca Ryan and learn about Ryan's research on our region's specific challenges and opportunities. (Video length: 26 min.)     A Peer-led Experience Participants in the Bingham Fellows class shape their own experience.  Putting their advanced leadership skills into action, participants work in small groups to further explore the topic and implement solutions.  This process is peer-led and activities are peer-executed.  A Leadership Louisville Center program manager facilitates the experience.  Who can apply Graduates of all Leadership Louisville Center programs and graduates of other regional leadership programs are encouraged to apply. When and how to apply More than ever, now is the time to invest in yourself and your region. The deadline for applications has been extended through Dec. 22. Click here for application details.