Leadership Unlimited (LU) develops individuals into effective business and community leaders. Since the graduation of its first class in 1983, this respected community leadership program has helped participants gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping Richland County. Through immersive tours, engaging activities, and meaningful discussions, participants explore the region’s key sectors and issues firsthand.

Designed specifically for mid‑career professionals, the program emphasizes personal leadership growth. Participants strengthen their leadership capabilities through evidence‑based training, gaining practical tools and proven practices that enable them to lead with confidence, purpose, and impact in both their professional and community roles.

Learning Outcomes

Participants will:

• Gain increased awareness of the key challenges and opportunities facing Richland County.
• Develop practical leadership skills to lead confidently and effectively in their professional careers and community roles.
• Learn about current community initiatives and discover meaningful ways to become involved.
• Engage directly with senior leaders and elected officials, gaining insight into local decision‑making and governance.
• Expand their professional network by connecting with a diverse group of community‑minded peers.
• Explore nonprofit volunteer and board service opportunities that align with their interests and passion.
  

What will I experience on a typical day?

A Leadership Unlimited program day is designed to incorporate many different adult learning styles with discussions, experiential activities, panels, company tours, and service projects. Here is an agenda for a typical day:
8:45 a.m. – Coffee and light breakfast
9 a.m. – Panel discussion
11 a.m. – Business tour 1
12 p.m. – Lunch and activity
1 p.m. – Business tour 2
2 p.m. – Leadership activity
3 p.m. – Debriefing
3:30 p.m. – Capstone project discussion

Program Day Topics
Program day sessions cover such areas as:

• Disability Awareness
• Economic Development
• Education
• Health Equity and Access
• Housing
• Public Safety
• Tourism
• Workforce Development
  

Program Impact

Class of 2025 cohort members completed a reflective post‑survey measuring growth in leadership skills, community awareness, and professional network development. Participants reported meaningful progress across all areas. Scroll through to explore the program’s impact and see how the experience shaped their leadership journey.

Class of 2027 Application Information

Participants

An average of 30-40 participants will be selected annually from a cross-section of the community, including business, the arts, religion, education, government, community, and civic groups.

Selection

Candidates selected for the LU program will possess a sincere commitment, motivation, and interest to serve the Richland County community. LU seeks participants who have demonstrated leadership in their respective areas of influence within the community. A selection committee will review all completed applications and select those applicants who have demonstrated commitment, leadership ability, and a desire to serve their community. Please note, that only one participant per organization will be accepted. It is encouraged that organizations have an internal process for nominating one applicant.

Tuition

Tuition for the program is $2,000. Tuition should be met by the participant and their sponsoring organization or employer. Payment plans may be arranged, and financial aid is available.

Commitment

Leadership Unlimited requires that a participant have the full support of the organization he or she represents. To graduate from Leadership Unlimited, a participant must meet these attendance requirements:

• Orientation – Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026, from 4 to 5:00 p.m. (required, but could be made up if necessary)
• Overnight Retreat at Mohican Lodge & Conference Center: Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, at 9 a.m. to Friday, Sept. 4, 2026, at 12 p.m. (This is the Thursday and Friday after Labor Day. Absence results in removal from the program.)
• One full weekday per month, the second Thursday, October through June from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (up to two absences permitted.)
  • 2026 Program Days: October 8, November 12, December 10
  • 2027 Program Days: January 14, February 11, March 11, April 8, May 13, June 10. 
• Capstone Project (Program days will include time for planning. Scheduling time outside of program days is likely.)
• Meeting Attendance: Attend a nonprofit board meeting, service club, or city/village council meeting during the program year. Submit a summary to the Director.
• Graduation celebration on June 10, 2027, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. (strongly encouraged)
  

Apply Today

Applications for the class of 2026-2027 are due by March 27, 2026.