Leadership Monongalia Opens Applications for the Class of 2027

Leadership Monongalia Opens Applications for the Class of 2027

Twenty emerging and established leaders will begin a nine-month journey focused on leadership, community engagement and lasting impact.

MORGANTOWN, W.V.a. — Leadership Monongalia, a program of the Morgantown Area Partnership, has opened applications for the Class of 2027. Now entering its 29th year, the professional development program continues to cultivate community leaders through immersive learning experiences that strengthen both participants and Monongalia County.

Since its founding, Leadership Monongalia has graduated over 500 community leaders. Each year, the program selects only 20 participants, creating an intentionally small cohort that fosters collaboration and connections.

Throughout the nine-month program, class members engage in hands-on, experiential learning that introduces them to the people, organizations and issues shaping Monongalia County.

Monthly sessions focus on topics including economic development, education, health care, government, arts and culture, social services, quality of life, community leadership and regional collaboration. Participants hear from local experts, visit organizations throughout the county and gain firsthand knowledge through interactive experiences that bring each topic to life.

The program's mission is to identify, develop and sustain community leaders by enhancing personal leadership skills, expanding knowledge of Monongalia County and encouraging long-term community involvement. 

Whether you're looking to become more involved in your community, expand your professional network or develop as a leader, Leadership Mon offers an engaging and immersive experience that encourages active participation both in and outside the classroom.

"Leadership Monongalia is about more than developing leadership skills, it's about helping people build meaningful relationships, better understand our community and discover how they can make a lasting impact,” said Michelle Hopkins, Leadership Mon Co-Director. “Every class brings together individuals with different experiences and perspectives, and watching those connections grow into lifelong collaborations is one of the most rewarding parts of the program."

The Class of 2027 begins in September 2026 and concludes in May 2027. The program includes one full-day leadership session each month, an occasional evening commitment and a mandatory retreat at Camp Dawson on October 2-3, 2026.

Individuals who want to grow as leaders, strengthen their connection to the community and help shape Monongalia County's future are encouraged to apply.

Applications for the Leadership Monongalia Class of 2027 are now available. The application deadline is August 1, 2026. 

For more information or to apply, visit LeadershipMon.org or complete an application at http://www.leadershipmon.org/application.html  

About Leadership Monongalia (http://www.leadershipmon.org/): 

Leadership Monongalia develops, connects and inspires emerging and established leaders who strengthen Monongalia County through service, collaboration and civic engagement. Through a nine-month leadership program, participants build personal leadership skills, explore the county's key industries and institutions, and form lasting relationships with fellow leaders across business, education, government, health care, arts and culture and the nonprofit sector. Leadership Monongalia equips participants with the knowledge and experience to lead with purpose and create a lasting impact throughout the community.

About the Morgantown Area Partnership (www.morgantownpartnership.com):  

The Morgantown Area Partnership (the Partnership) is a business organization that is focused on economic growth for all entities in Monongalia County, WV. It is a public/private alliance for the betterment of economic, business and community development in the area. 

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