Show/Hide more photosLeadership Louisville

Harnessing knowledge, passion and connections to build a world-class community.

About the Program

Our signature program is for established leaders who are ready to make a meaningful contribution to the region’s growth and success. For ten months, the diverse cohort of professional peers gains a true understanding of the people and issues shaping our community’s future – and more importantly, how they can impact those issues. The biggest dividend comes in the form of social capital as they network with people in diverse circles, increasing their capacity to influence change and innovate the way we do business.

The 2019 class will mark the 40th anniversary of Leadership Louisville, the flagship program of one of the largest and most innovative community leadership organizations in the country.

Applications for the Class of 2019 closed May 21, 2018. 

  • “I learned a lot about Louisville, but most importantly, I learned more about myself and how I sought to progress as a leader in our city. Being immersed in LL with other leaders is a priceless experience for anyone who wants to make a difference in our community.”
    Mary Ellen Wiederwohl, (LL ’09, BF ’11) Chief, Louisville Forward

  • “I’ve lived in Louisville for over 25 years and have largely been on the periphery. I now feel engaged and connected.”
    Dave Dafoe, (LL ’16) Owner & COO, Flavorman

  • “Leadership Louisville introduced me to world class people – both in our Class of 2013 and through our program days. Staying connected with them inspires all of us to make our community a better place. Personal and professional growth accelerates when you participate in Leadership Louisville.”
    Ken Selvaggi, (LL ’13) Vice President & General Manager, WAVE 3 News

  • “I cannot tell you how much of a game changer Leadership Louisville 2016 has been in my life. Your programs have opened my eyes and many doors to our community.”
    John Roberts, M.D. (LL ’16, FL ’15), Vice Dean for Graduate Medical Education, University of Louisville Medical School

  • “The Leadership Louisville program does an excellent job of bringing together a dynamic group of people that are energized about their community and want to play a bigger role in its success. It was an eye opening experience as a lifelong resident of this community and I am better prepared to be an effective board member or trustee thanks to my experience.”
    David L. Hardy, CCIM (LL ’06), Managing Director, CBRE

  • “The personal and professional growth opportunity offered by participating in Leadership Louisville is fantastic. You work with and are surrounded by some of the brightest minds in our community. It would be very difficult for anyone to go through the Leadership Louisville process and not find significant growth in yourself.”
    Greg Fante, CSEE, (LL ’13), Director of Sports Development, Louisville Sports Commission

  • “This entire year has been well above my expectations, and our day in Frankfort was certainly one I will remember for many reasons. To top it all off, this is a team journey with wonderful classmates who I am fortunate to forge friendships with along the way. Thanks to you all.”
    Sean Miranda (LL ’16) First VP, Financial Consultant, Hilliard Lyons

  • “Beyond a course, event or even an experience, Leadership Louisville created an ongoing momentum that has impacted my sense of connection in our city, changed the way I approach my role as a business owner and raised the awareness of my responsibility in Louisville.”
    Mark Hogg (LL ’12) – Founder and Chief Executive Officer, WaterStep

How Individuals Benefit

  • Immersion in how Louisville actually runs will give you a broader and deeper perspective on the city and your role in the community.
  • You will build a long-lasting network of civic-minded local leaders who both support and challenge your views on the community’s key issues.
  • You’ll discover issues you are passionate about by experiencing them firsthand.

Read blog posts from current participants and graduates about their Leadership Louisville experience.

How Organizations benefit

  • Participants meet fellow community leaders, establish connections and expand their circle of influence.
  • Your company leaders establish relationships that will provide new opportunities to serve the community and deal firsthand with vital local issues.
  • The program provides participants with foundations to build a strong local network, deepening individual connections to the community and making more committed leaders.

Time commitment

Two-day opening retreat followed by one program day each month (August – May)

Program Calendar – Class of 2019

July 17, 2018, 4:00-6:00 (not mandatory but encouraged)
August 16-17, 2018 (Mandatory opening retreat)
September 11, 2018 (updated since originally published)
October 17, 2018 (updated since originally published)
November 6, 2018 (Election Day – late program day start)
December 4, 2018
January 8, 2019
February 12, 2019
March 12, 2019
April 9, 2019
May 7, 2019 (Closing retreat/graduation)

Tuition

Tuition for Leadership Louisville is $5,500 – includes meals and materials, and overnight lodging for opening retreat. Limited scholarships are available based on need. The scholarship application is part of the online application form.

Who should Apply

The Leadership Louisville program is designed for experienced leaders who want to significantly increase their impact on their organization and their community.  This includes senior executives, presidents and vice presidents, executive directors, business owners, and high-level directors and managers, representing all industries and business types within our region.

How to Apply

Applications for the Leadership Louisville Class of 2019 closed May 21, 2018. The online application considers prior Leadership Louisville Center program participation, education, career, community service, responses to essay questions and recommendations.

Want to be notified regarding applications and deadline reminders? Join our email list.

Questions?

Please see Frequently Asked Questions about Leadership Louisville program or contact Angella Wilson at (502) 561-5221 or email.