What is Leadership Columbus?

The Columbus County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism and Southeastern Community College are excited to invite you to participate in Leadership Columbus 2025.  Together, the Chamber and the College have revamped our Leadership Program.

Our goal is to offer hands-on experiences in our community and interaction with current leaders in Columbus County.  We aim to expose our participants to the valuable assets in the 954 square miles we call home.  Realizing they contribute to our economy and teach the importance of acknowledging and promoting our county positively will help drive economic development in our community.

• BUILD & DEMONSTRATE LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS
• THINK CRITICALLY ABOUT KEY BUSINESS POLICY AND CIVIC ISSUES FACING COLUMBUS COUNTY
• BUILD MEANINGFUL, LONG-LASTING CONNECTIONS
• ESTABLISH ONGOING DIALOGUES WITH EXPERIENCED COMMUNITY LEADERS

Who is the ideal candidate for Leadership Columbus?

Historically, employers from every size of business, nonprofit, educational systems, and municipalities have enrolled members of their organizations.  Their enrollment provides them with direct contact with our community leaders and partnerships critical to the process of change and improvement in Columbus County.

Characteristics of a successful applicant include commitment, motivation, and interest in serving the county, demonstrated by voluntary leadership in community affairs; desire and willingness to seek key volunteer and appointed leadership roles; and long-term commitment to playing a personal role in helping to shape Columbus County's future.

Special effort is made to ensure that each class reflects the county's diversity in terms of age, race, gender, geography, sector of employment, stage of career, and types of civic and community involvement.

Participants must have the full support of their employers and be approved for participation by the program's attendance requirements.

Is Leadership Columbus only for Chamber Members?

No, Chamber membership is not required; however, there is a discounted fee for members in good standing.

What are the fees for Leadership Columbus?

If accepted into the Leadership Columbus program, you or your employer/sponsor will be invoiced $500 for Chamber members and $760 for non-members. This fee covers costs for the retreat, classroom sessions, lunches, and graduation. No refunds will be provided for participants who drop out of the program or do not fulfill the required curriculum.