Program Information:      

• Leadership Sarasota is committed to having a diverse and dynamic membership.
• Tuition assistance is available for a few qualified applicants.
• Applicants must have the full support of the company or organization by which they are employed.

Instructions/Selection:    

• Applications must be submitted online. You will need to create an account to complete the application. Our new online system streamlines the process for faster submissions. If you encounter any issues, please contact Pete Bartosik at Pbartosik@sarasotachamber.com or 941-556-4039
• Limit answers to the space provided.
• ONE letter of recommendation (see under recommendations section) with your application.
• No other attachments will be considered.
• Applications must be fully completed (including receipt of letter of recommendation) and signed by the applicant.
• All applications are subject to a confidential evaluation.
• In-person interviews will be conducted with all applicants.
• Selected applicants will receive an acceptance letter, after which, tuition payment must be made by the appointed date stated in the letter.

Application Fee and Tuition:    

• To apply, there will be an application fee of: 
  • $35 -Chamber Member
  • $75 - Non-Member
• You will be emailed an invoice after you finish the application. Applications will not considered complete until the fee has been paid. The application fee is non-refundable.
• Tuition:
  • $2,070 - Chamber Member 
  • $2,325 - Non-Chamber Member
  • Once an applicant is selected, payment is due upon the candidate’s affirmation of acceptance.

Ideal Candidate

• All participants should demonstrate:
  • Ambition to strengthen Leadership skills
  • Dedication to the Sarasota community
  • Commitment to invest their effort into the program

Selection Criteria:

The Leadership Sarasota class shall be selected on the following criteria:

• Individual qualifications and not that of their employer.
• Representation from the greatest breadth of diversity in all socio-economic areas.
• Demonstrated ability to set and achieve personal and professional goals.
• Demonstrated personal commitment to Sarasota community and society in general.
• A commitment to the time required by the program.
• A commitment to be a responsible and engaged participant.
• A commitment to participate in producing a “day” for the successive class.
• Announced candidates for public office may not “campaign” and/or use class time to promote their candidacy in any way.

Attendance Policy:

Attendance at all sessions is expected. Attendance at the Orientation, entire Opening/Closing Retreat, and Connections Night is MANDATORY to continue the Program. Those who are absent from more than two (2) of the remaining sessions listed on the Program Schedule will NOT graduate from the program and will NOT receive a tuition refund. Participation in the Class Project is an additional time requirement (outside of class schedule).

*Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance into the program.