Leadership in the Valley 2026-2027

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PROGRAM BENEFITS: 

Leadership in the Valley allows participants to: 

• Gain exposure to current issues and developments  
• Visit local sites and facilities  
• Meet local and regional leaders  
• Develop and expand network of contacts  
• Broaden perspectives and understanding  
• Build friendships and working relationships with class members 
• Give back to the community through participation in group project
• Bring together people who welcome the opportunity to expand their involvement in community affairs
• Have the opportunity to explore new leadership responsibilities in the valley
• Enhance and grow leadership skills and form beneficial professional relationships
• Stimulate an understanding of the forces and trends affecting the development of the community 
• Increase knowledge of, and commitment to, the greater Stillwater area (the Valley)

STRUCTURE: Leadership in the Valley is a nine-month program from September through May. Classes meet in different locations around the community each month exploring a major topic covered by knowledgeable speakers and panels, tours, group activities, demonstrations and class discussions. At the end of the Leadership in the Valley program year, a graduation ceremony and dinner will be held in recognition of the class. After completing the program, graduates will become alumni of the Leadership in the Valley Alumni group.

ATTENDANCE: Leadership in the Valley requires a strict time commitment. Class members must attend a minimum of 80 percent of all sessions and participate in a community project with classmates. The class will break into smaller groups to work together on a community project which will take additional time outside of the class sessions. This is a requirement to graduate from the program. The community projects serve as a crucible where class members will practice and apply leadership skills in a small-group experience, work with community leaders, gain an in-depth understanding of a community organization and/or community need, and make a positive difference in the lives of others. Project work is done outside of regular day session meetings. Meeting times and locations are determined by project group members. 

TUITION: A $30.00 non-refundable application fee is due when this application is submitted. The tuition fee for Leadership in the Valley is $1,595 for Chamber members and $1,795 for non-Chamber members, which covers all costs for meals, materials, supplies and supplemental transportation throughout the year. The fee may be paid by the participant and/or their business firm or organization. 

Who Should Apply?

• Anyone living or working in the St. Croix Valley area who has a stake in and passion for the community

• Anyone with an interest in government, advocacy, non-profit work, or who wishes to contribute to the betterment of our community 

• Anyone interested in civic and professional development as well as leadership skills training 

• Participants may come from a wide array of backgrounds and often include executives, business owners, consultants, non-profits, local-residents, and business employees

Cohorts develop a close bond that provides them a valuable network after the program ends. Participants will also benefit from involvement with the future Leadership in the Valley Alumni Association

The Greater Stillwater Chamber maintains a non-discriminatory policy as an equal opportunity organization to ensure that all participants are treated equally and fairly regardless of age, race, sex, creed, color, handicap, or national origin. 

The Leadership in the Valley Steering Committee will review each application independently. Applications will be evaluated and applicants will be notified by letter about this year's class selection.  

Leadership in the Valley Program Days

• ​Kick-Off Day
• Agriculture + Environment Day
• Business + Economic Development Day
• Education Day
• Health + Wellness Day
• Government Day
• Creating Equity in our Community Day
• Public Safety + Law Day
• Community + The Arts Day
• Graduation Ceremony

Support the Leadership in the Valley program with as a Day Sponsor. Recognition is given on social media, Day of and in Class Yearbook. Option to present a Business Spotlight and provide branded item to class on themed Day.
$1,000/Day Sponsor; $1,500 Welcome Reception and/or Graduation Ceremony Sponsor. Inquire about what is available here.