Over the past quarter century Leadership SLO has taken nearly 900 community members and produced hundreds of volunteers, nonprofit board members, and government board, task force and commission appointees.
The nonprofit strives to take everyday citizens and through a 10-month emersion in local politics, culture, education, agriculture and a number of other sectors of the county, open minds and create better leaders and consequently, a better community.
“When I joined Class III I had a young family and a small business to run,” Pacific Energy Company President John Ewan said. “Since Leadership SLO 
my business has grown and I have had the great opportunity of serving my city as a council member for two terms, serving on numerous boards and chairing many of those boards. I sincerely believe that much of this would not have happened without Leadership SLO, which in turn would not have happened without the financial support I received. Thank you for providing me with the foundation for an aspiring life.”
The application period for Leadership SLO Class XXVI is open.
The rigorous program begins with a three-day retreat in the Sierra foothills. The monthly classes immerse participants in the challenges, joys and innovations affecting our community in different areas including: arts, education, media, health, county and city government, law enforcement, business and manufacturing, and agriculture. Through a continuously adapting curriculum, hands-on homework, expert panels and lively presentations, class members hone their personal leadership style and work together with community members of diverse experiences and opinions.
To commemorate 25 years of service Leadership SLO is hosting an all-class celebration on October 15. For more information, visit leadershipslo.org/l25sterlingcelebration/
Applications are currently being accepted for Class XXVI at LeadershipSLO.org. The deadline for applying is September 30.