Founded in 1989, Leadership Osceola was created to ensure our community had a foundation of knowledgeable, engaged, civic-minded individuals prepared to lead Osceola. Founded in 1989 at the Kissimmee/Osceola County Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Osceola was created to ensure our community had a foundation of knowledgeable, engaged, civic minded individuals prepared to lead Osceola. The program has been creating a more leader-full community for more than 30 years and has opened the door to public and civic service for hundreds of individuals across our society. Candidates are identified by local businesses, community stakeholders, and Leadership Osceola alumni for program consideration. The application process commences in the fall and includes the submission of an application and candidate interview conducted by a selection committee comprised of Leadership Osceola alumni. The class is seated in January and kicks off with a two day retreat early February. The class size is purposefully kept small (30-35 individuals) to facilitate class connectedness and camaraderie. Over the course of six months, participants gain valuable exposure to key issues affecting the community through interactive activities and hands-on experiences. Topics explored include environment, government, criminal justice, education, economic development, health & emergency services, agribusiness, social services, arts & culture, and visioning. Program days also contain focused community leadership training, skills development, and capacity building. Leadership Osceola culminates with a graduation ceremony hosted by Walt Disney World. Upon graduation, participants are encouraged to engage in public betterment, government advisory, and/or civic service opportunities that make community impact. Leadership Osceola is an incredible orientation to a myriad of key community issues and exposure to Osceola’s movers and shakers. This program is excellent for long-time residents or newcomers to the community. Tuition is $1500 per person and includes all program expenses, including a 2-day retreat. A limited number of scholarships (50%) are available for small businesses and non-profits.
