"A community is like a ship, everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm."
Henrik Ibsen
Vision of Leadership
To bring together people of diverse backgrounds into a community-sponsored program which will bring out the very best in each individual for the benefit of the entire Community.Now in its seventeenth year, Leadership Santa Maria Valley has almost 250 graduates. Leadership Santa Maria Valley is designed to bring participants out of their "comfort zones." It's a rewarding way to learn new things, make friendships that will last a lifetime, explore personal biases, and learn new leadership styles and ways of handling diversity in opinions and people. Our philosophy is simple: We will help you become a Community Trustee, and as a consequence, will build a better community. "Tomorrow's Leaders Begin With Today's Understanding"
Leadership Santa Maria Valley is a community Leadership development program designed to expand the community?s civic leadership. Through an eleven-month program of monthly daylong seminars, participants engage in face-to-face discussions with experts and key decision-makers in areas of vital concern to the Santa Maria Valley. Spending time together in a small class atmosphere, individuals will have an unprecedented opportunity to become aware of the current social and economic changes and their impact on the Santa Maria Valley. It is also a prime opportunity to become acquainted with other community leaders.
Program Objectives
- To identify and develop emerging and potential leaders from various geographic, social, ethnic, occupational and economic segments of the community.
- To develop potential in, and encourage acceptance of, civic responsibility by emerging leaders.
- To broaden the volunteer leadership base by establishing a broad cross-section of participants.
- To encourage personal growth and development.