Leadership Programs

We believe that everyone has something to contribute and that everyone can be a leader. ACF is committed to elevating individuals who are making a positive impact as engaged citizens and professionals. This includes existing and emerging leaders, adult, and youth leaders. 


Leaders who are members of the communities who have the experience, relationships, and knowledge essential for developing solutions with measurable, sustainable impact. Importantly, these local leaders can also recognize and leverage assets within their communities.


Recognizing the value of local leaders in Athens County has shaped the ACF's approach in recent years. We have intentionally invested in the people and organizations in the county, building their leadership, supporting their initiatives, and cultivating careful partnerships that draw on their expertise. We have seen actors in the county collaborate to address complex challenges and make meaningful, swift progress. 


Leadership Athens County

One way we elevate leaders in Athens County is through our Leadership Athens County programs: Flagship and Youth. 


Leadership Athens County (LAC) is a place-based and asset-focused leadership program aimed at developing a corps of informed citizens to provide dynamic community leadership. LAC brings together existing and emerging leaders to inform, connect, and inspire community-minded individuals to engage in service.  LAC also helps participants develop and understand their own leadership styles.

Thanks to our partners, sponsors, and contributors for supporting this program.

Michael & Jo Carpenter

Cheryl & Tony Sylvester

  • History

    LAC Class of 2007 Class Photo

    The idea for a community leadership program came from former Athens County Foundation Executive Director Susan Urano, local business leader Jack Bortle, and former Chamber of Commerce CEO Jennifer Simon in the fall of 2005. Together, they gathered a diverse group of prominent community leaders to form an advisory committee which included Gary North, President, The Athens Foundation; Jack Bortle, Chair, Athens County Port Authority; Claire Ping, Founder of the Athens Foundation and Community Scope; Carol Kuhre, past director of Rural Action and Athens Foundation board member; and Mike Brooks, CEO of Rocky Boots.


    Having set the goals and directions for the program, a Planning Committee came together to put the program into action. Tanya Conrath was hired in the Spring of 2006 as Director and shortly thereafter the first class was selected.


    Now in its 20th year and with over 400 graduates, Leadership Athens County continues to grow and evolve – with a Youth program launched in 2023 and alumni programming currently in development.

Connect


Dani Esperanza

Director of Programs,
Leadership and Co-Create

Leadership