The Leadership Ashland program is a 10-month program with the class meeting once per month from September through June. Each class is a full day, with the exception of the final class in June, which features a half-day class in the morning followed by a graduation lunch. Six of the class day afternoons are planned by the participants, providing them with the opportunity to work in small teams to execute the logistics necessary to successfully provide information to their classmates on specific topics identified by the class at the retreat.
OVERVIEW OF CLASS DAYS
September - Class Retreat
This is a full day retreat that entails team development in the morning, followed by an overview of the year and discussion on areas of interest for future class days. Participants will select the class day focus in which they are interested and develop planning teams for each of those class days.
October - Bus Tour
Starting at the Ashland County Historical Society, the class embarks on a bus tour of various sites throughout Ashland County. This is an opportunity to see the diversity of businesses and recreational opportunities that exist in the county.
November - Board Development
Starting with the introduction to our leadership development modules in the morning, this class then presents participants with in-depth information on the responsibilities of serving on a board, as well as participating in a mock board meeting. The last part of the class day provides participants with the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives from several non-profit and civic organizations in the community to explore opportunities for board service.
December through May - Leadership Development / Focused Topic Days
Each month from December through May includes 4 hours of leadership development (usually done in the morning), followed by speakers and/or site visits focused on the community topic for that class. Focus areas include:
- Agriculture and Environment
- Business and Industry
- Culture and Recreation
- Education
- Government and Safety Services
- Health and Social Services
Planning teams (as selected at the September Retreat) work together to select specific topics for the focus are of their day, contact speakers, and coordinate all logistics for the day, including venue(s), lunch and securing sponsors for lunch and break refreshments.
June - Ashland County Community Foundation / Graduation
The morning is dedicated to learning about the Ashland County Community Foundation. Participants hear from the Executive Director of ACCF, as well as ACCF Board members and staff about the important work that the Community Foundation does in Ashland County. Then, class members participate in an experiential exercise that provides them with the opportunity to learn about the grant-making process at ACCF. At the end of the morning, participants share their final reflections of the class year. A "business-casual" graduation lunch is held immediately after the session at ACCF.
