Leadership Institute

Sponsored By:

The Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce and The University of Maine at Augusta, Division of Continuing Education

KLI 2011 Corporate Sponsor:

What Is Kennebec Valley Leadership Institute?

The concept of a leadership program is to assure a continuing flow of able, vigorous and resourceful leaders in the Kennebec Valley area. As the oldest such leadership program in the state, the Kennebec Leadership Institute (KLI) draws prospective leaders from a cross-section of businesses, organizations and the community at large. Its purpose is to stimulate these promising individuals to work more effectively within their own spheres of interest and influence and to expand their civic and community participation. KLI seeks to foster a network of leaders who are committed to understanding and improving the Kennebec Valley. Past graduates have successfully run for office, been promoted within their companies, sat on boards of directors throughout the community; and chaired various civic and community groups. KLI is an intensive, three-month (80 hour) training program that requires 100% commitment from its participants. It is designed to give participants the knowledge and skills necessary to become more effective community leaders. KLI is co-sponsored by the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce and the University of Maine at Augusta.

Who Should Participate?

Any Kennebec Valley resident, or one who works in the Kennebec Valley, with a demonstrated interest in community betterment is invited to apply. You need not already be in a leadership position; the only requirement is a sincere interest in improving yourself and becoming a more active participant in the future of the Kennebec Valley.

The Need

The direction that we as a community take in the coming years is largely dependent upon the knowledge, awareness and abilities of our future community leaders. As our society grows increasingly complex, the need for development of well-rounded professionals with practical leadership tools and skills becomes essential. This is especially true now in the Kennebec Valley.

The Solution

• Provide information on the diversity, uniqueness, resources and concerns of the Kennebec Valley.
• Promote advanced leadership development through interactive sessions with problems, procedures and persons involved in conducting private and public business.
• Motivate participants to assume responsible positions in business, civic and citizen organizations.
• Establish a network of capable leaders from which to draw as new challenges and opportunities present themselves in the changing business and community life of the Kennebec Valley.

Program Content

Skill Building:

• Styles of Leadership
• Communication Skills - Listening & Understanding - Self-Expression - Influencing & Persuasion
• Conflict Resolution
• Negotiation
• Problem Solving
• Team Building
• Running Effective Meetings
• Goal Setting and Action Planning

Kennebec Valley Issues:

• History, Demographics & Economic Base
• Government - Local & State
• Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness
• Economic Development
• Education
• Alternative Energy & Energy Technology
• KV Downtowns - Past, Present & Future
• Service Organizations & Community Involvement - Culture & the Arts

The Program

• Leadership Skill Building: Two weekends (opening & closing) and four full-day sessions that focus on building participant's leadership skills and talents.
• Kennebec Valley Issues: A series of eight evening panel discussions with top business and community leaders, each focusing on a specific topic or aspect of life and work in the Kennebec Valley.
• Leadership Experiences: Four in-depth sessions with selected community leaders that provide the opportunity to get to know them as people as well as leaders, expose you to the intricacies of their styles, practices, experiences, and perspectives on the Kennebec Valley.

2012 Program Information:

When: February 4th - May 9th, 2011. The Institute includes two weekends, four full-day sessions, and eight evening classes. This 80-hour program is worth 8 CEU Credits. The University of Maine at Augusta will award three business elective credits upon paid university registration and documented completion of the Kennebec Leadership Program.

Concepts of Leadership: OPENING WEEKEND (overnight) February 4th (8:00 AM) - February 5th (12:00 Noon)

Leadership Skills & Training: DAY-LONG SESSIONS - Four Wednesdays (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM): February 15th, March 7th & 28th and April 18th

Kennebec Valley Issues: EVENING SESSIONS - Seven Wednesdays and one Tuesday (6:00 – 9:00 PM): February 8th, 22nd and 29th; March 13th (TUESDAY) & 21st; April 4th, 11th & 25th (May 2nd = extra for snow dates)

Putting It All Together/Where Do We Go From Here? CLOSING WEEKEND - May 4th - 6th (overnight - cost included in tuition)

Graduation Date: Wednesday, May 9th @ KV Chamber Business Insider Breakfast

How Much Does It Cost?

Tuition is $1050. The Kennebec Leadership Institute may have partial scholarships available - call the Chamber of Commerce for details.

How Can I Apply?

Submit completed application to The Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 676, Augusta ME 04332-0676. Review of applications begins in August. A screening committee will interview finalists. Click Here for our application form in PDF Format.

Contact Information

The Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 676
Augusta ME 04332-0676
(207) 623-4559
info@augustamaine.com