Location

Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce, 43 W. Galena Blvd.
Aurora, IL

Various business locations in and around Aurora and North Aurora.

 

LEADERSHIP ACADEMY IS BACK!
The Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership Academy is offered to representatives of member businesses and organizations and is designed to prepare a select group of qualified candidates for future leadership roles in the Aurora area.

Since the Pandemic, the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Academy program has been revised and improved. It still offers the opportunity to learn about major organizations in the Aurora region through a field trip based model. However, the past two years, more emphasis has been given to leadership philosophy and practices. Participants study the most mature and demanding model of leadership commonly known as "Servant Leadership." Furthermore, the structure of the organizations that we visit share their leadership philosophy and practices. Finally, participants personal and professional networks take a gigantic leap due too this experience.

This year's program will focus on the unique strengths of our community, including the unique positioning and potential of the Aurora region, and will highlight discussions on community and economic development, local government and cultural diversity, as well as civil and social services.

This 2023 Leadership Academy will be facilitated by Dr. William A. "Bill" Marzano, retired higher education administrator with Waubonsee Community College. 

LEADERSHIP ACADEMY LINEUP
Thirty hours of class time, over the course of 10 sessions plus an orientation/kick off and a graduation luncheon, Leadership Academy will focus on personal and professional development of the participants through a personality inventory identification and leadership development.​               

• Friday, August 25 - Orientation & Academy Kick Off
• Friday, Sept 8 - Session 1 (Community Overview & Renewal)
• Friday, Sept 15 - Session 2 (Healthcare)
• Friday, Sept 22 - Session 3 (Municipal Government Village of North Aurora)
• Friday, Sept 29 - Session 4 (Municipal Government and Services, City of Aurora)
• Friday, Oct 6 - Session 5 (Sustainability)
• Friday, Oct 13 - Session 6 (Philanthropy)
• Friday, Oct 20 - Session 7 (Higher Education)
• Friday, Oct 27 - Session 8 (Public Service and Safety)
• Friday, Nov 3 - Session 9 (Manufacturing & Workforce Development)
• Thursday, Nov 9- Session 10 (Entertainment & Recreation)
• Friday, Nov 17 - Leadership Academy Graduation 

HISTORY
Established in 1979, the Aurora Chamber's Leadership Academy has a rich history of providing confidence, knowledge, professionalism, and strong leadership skills that not only benefit the attendee, but also their employers. The goal is simple: to create a development opportunity for participants to serve and enhance themselves, their employers, and the community.
 
Over the past 44 years, nearly 900 community leaders have participated in the program. Many have gone on to lead local businesses and organizations. Some have gone on to public office. All have left their mark on the community.