Leadership Kittitas County

Inspiring individuals to seek leadership roles and gives them the resources to succeed as leaders.

What is Leadership Kittitas County? Leadership Kittitas County (LKC) is an in-depth, 7-month exploration of our county. LKC classes are able to visit offices in the county frequently not open to the public, have exclusive meetings with community leaders and top business people, and have spirited conversations about policy and our communities’ future. Diversity of viewpoints is highly encouraged. Many deep friendships and connections have been forged among participants and with Leadership alumni and presenters.

Who has attended Leadership Kittitas County?  Between 1995 and 2023, over 400 people have completed the program. Alumni have gone to become local elected officials, state representatives, judges, top CWU administrators, and people in nearly every walk of life. They straddle a wide range of political affiliations but are united in a common desire to make our communities better.

How are participants selected?  Applicants are nominated by Leadership alumni and facilitators. Selection is based on applicants’ interests and the need for the class to be representative of the community. All applicants are not necessarily chosen for the program the first year. Click here to add any nominations.

What is the tuition?  Tuition is $550 per participant and is typically covered by employers.

What does tuition cover?  Tuition is used for costs such as materials, space rentals, meals, and transportation services. The Chamber donates staff support.

What is the time commitment? Participants are expected to attend all virtual sessions and participate by engaging with speakers and fellow class members. Classes will run from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a lunch break in between. All sessions, with the exception of the October Orientation, are held on the 2^nd Friday of the month. Attendance at the Thursday, October 12 Orientation is mandatory. 

What is the program’s 2023-2024 schedule?

Reception/Orientation | October 12, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Health and Social Services | October 13, 2023 | 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Education | November 10, 2023 | 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Government/Law & Justice | December 8, 2023 | 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Business & Economy | January 12, 2024 | 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Natural Resources | February 9, 2024 | 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Arts & Recreation | March 8, 2024 | 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m

History | April 12, 2023 | 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Graduation | April 25, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Where do classes take place? Leadership Kittitas County is usually education on-the-run.  Classes take place on the 2nd Friday of every month from October to April.

If I become a participant am I expected to run for public office?  We provide the background, knowledge and experiences; how individuals use that is up to them.  Also, leadership is broader than public office.  Roles in professional associations, on boards and commissions, and with service organizations also have great impact.

What is the Chamber’s role?  As founder and administrator of the program, the Chamber understands that our business environment and quality of life are directly tied to the excellence of local leadership. The Chamber is committed to assembling the best resources available to provide a year of thought-provoking programs and to motivate participants to become involved in our county’s future.

Where can I sign up?  Applications has closed. Please email the Director of Chamber Outreach & Economic Advancement Darby Grimes or call (509) 925-2002 if you have any questions.