Leadership Skagit now accepting applications for class of 2025

Leadership Skagit, a program of EDASC in partnership with Skagit Valley College, is now accepting applications for the class of 2025.

Start your leadership journey today and join a network of more than 550 individuals who have gone through the program, including elected officials, business owners at all levels, executives and community members who are committed to making a difference in Skagit County.

Each year, up to 32 current and emerging leaders from throughout the county are selected to participate in Leadership Skagit’s intensive nine-month community leadership training program. Class begins in September 2024, culminating with graduation June 2025.

To learn more and apply, visit skagit.org/our-services/ls or contact leadership@skagit.org. Applications are due by April 15.

Leadership Skagit applicants are highly motivated, committed to being involved in the community, and interested in continuing their leadership journey by expanding their skills and connections. Applicants must live or work in Skagit County.

During the nine-month program, participants learn about important county-wide strengths and needs and how they are interconnected; develop and practice strategies and tools to become more effective leaders; and learn about justice, equity, diversity and inclusion to build skills for addressing systemic racism while expanding their professional and personal networks.

The program brings together individuals from the private, public and non-profit sectors to learn about Skagit County, to meet with government and industry leaders, tour business and agriculture sites and discuss the challenges and opportunities in the region.

The program's goal is to ensure that emerging leaders have the training and knowledge necessary to step into community leadership positions and that current leaders have an opportunity to sharpen and share their skills.

Classes meet monthly for all-day Challenge Days, focusing on specific topics like economic vitality, community services and stewardship, and building a healthy community.

In addition to the course work, each participant in the program becomes part of a small team that plans, organizes, and completes a service project that provides lasting benefit to the community.

Upon completion, graduates receive 17 academic credits in leadership from Skagit Valley College.