LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVES

Leadership Perspectives is designed to develop effective community leaders with vision and insight. Each session focuses on the issues critcal to our region's future success. Leadership Perspectives provides the opportunity for the cohort to exchange ideas, build networks, and connect to the communities and resources in Kandiyohi County.

Enrollment is limited to the first 40 participants.

Thank you for your interest in Leadership Perspectives. The 2025-2026 cohort has reached capacity. Additional applicants will be placed on a wait list for the next class.

Classes typically take place the first Thursday of every month. The full schedule is below. Attendance is important. Students may miss up to two classes to be eligible for graduation.

Investment: Chamber members $800 | Non-members $1,000

Price includes all materials, meals, and bus transportation.

Tuition is payable at the time the participant is accepted into the program.

Apply Today!

History

Established in 1992, Leadership Perspectives was developed to bring critical issues to the attention of potential community leaders and encourage their active participation in our future. It is a positive force in shaping the communities of Kandiyohi County, and is a dynamic and interactive educational experience sponsored by the Willmar Lakes Area Chamber. Over 1,000 community leaders have graduated from Leadership Perspectives to date.

Program Benefits

Exceptional community training opportunity
Includes all meals, session materials and transportation
Reinforces skills and imparts knowledge to participants
Offers exposure for you, your company, and your participating employees
Paves the way for cooperative efforts on current and future community projects

Who Should Participate

You are committed to leadership and community stewardship.
You want to build a diverse long-term network of colleagues.
You have a strong desire and interest to promote the organization you represent.
You want to contribute to the community even after graduation.
You want to develop an awareness of issues and challenges affecting the Willmar Lakes Area.

Topics with the Community as a Classroom

Gain exposure to our local community through presentations, panels, tours, and more.

Kick Off - September 4
Leadership - October 2
Heritage and Diversity - November 6
Government and Media - December 4
Health and Human Services/Volunteerism - January 8
Law and Justice - February 5
Education - March 5
Industry and Tourism - April 2
Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunities - May 7
Minnesota State Capitol - TBD
Leadership Perspectives Graduation - TBD

From Our Alumni

"When my family moved to the Willmar area, I was yearning for connection and to get more involved in our community. Thanks to the United Way of West Central Minnesota for believing in the value of Leadership Perspectives. It means so much to me to have had this experience!"

Heather Hanson

"Leadership Perspectives brings together people from a variety of business and industry sectors. The program highlights the area’s strengths and provides opportunities for individuals to become more involved in creating a more prosperous region. Leadership Perspectives is a great professional and personal development opportunity for emerging leaders."

Jeff Miller

"I learned so much about the community in which I live, work, and play. I met many amazing people and made many friends through my graduating peers. As a resident of Willmar for 20 years, I was shocked at how much I was unaware of, and my eyes have certainly been opened. "

Jen Engel

"What an incredible program with a great cohort! This program taught me many things I didn’t know about my community and created a network that spans many companies and industries. Thank you Hormel Foods for supporting the development of your employees and the communities in which they live and work!"

Kelsey Hedlof