The Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and Greater Worcester Community Foundation, co-sponsors of Leadership Worcester, announced today that the application process for the 2018-19 class is now open. In its fourth year, the program identifies promising new professionals who aspire to take an active leadership role in the Worcester community and are interested in learning and honing new leadership skills for the long-term benefit of the community.

“It's an exciting time of revitalization for the entire Worcester community,” said Timothy P. Murray, president and CEO, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Identifying and cultivating strong leaders from all sectors in Central Massachusetts is an important component to that rejuvenation - one that the Worcester Regional Chamber and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation take pride in.”

Leadership Worcester participants gain a first-hand understanding of critical issues facing Worcester while also building professional skills that contribute to civic advancement. The program is seeking applicants who bring a proven record of leadership capacity, an eagerness to have a personal impact, and a passion and commitment to making Worcester a leading, livable city. The nine-month program begins in September with an overnight retreat. Daylong sessions will take place monthly from October to May. Each session will explore a regional topic and will help participants acquire an understanding of the critical issues impacting Central Massachusetts economy, government, and quality of life. Participants in Leadership Worcester represent all sectors of the community—business, non-profit, education, and government.

“Leadership Worcester cultivates relationships across a wide range of sectors, industries and backgrounds,” said Ann T. Lisi, president and CEO, Greater Worcester Community Foundation. “By better understanding the role that each participant plays in the community, they can collaboratively explore civic leadership and why it is critical to our region's success.”

Applications are available online at www.leadershipworcester.com and are due on Monday, May 21, 2018. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance in late June. A limited amount of scholarship assistance has been made possible through the generosity of several Worcester foundations, including Fuller Foundation, Stoddard Charitable Trust, Hoche-Scofield Foundation, George I. Alden Trust, the Fletcher Foundation, and other private donations.