FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Applications are now available for the Leadership Fort Wayne (LFW) program’s Class of 2023. LFW is a premier program that builds leadership skills and increases community awareness, empowering participants to drive positive change. Applications will be accepted through Oct. 11.
LFW’s nine-month curriculum includes panel discussions where local leaders address the pressing issues and opportunities facing the community. Participants also receive leadership training focused on the most pertinent topics in today’s ever-changing society. In addition, class members participate in Community Action Projects, visits to local nonprofit agencies, personality and talent assessments, and can serve an internship of 6-12 months on a local nonprofit organization’s board.
“I have been completely blown away by the professionals who talked to the class about their personal experiences and what they’re doing for the community,” said Jeremy Stoner, a member of the LFW Class of 2022. “Some of them brought me to tears with what they’re able to do for other people in our great town. They’ve pushed me in the right direction and helped me to become better.”
LFW was founded in 1983 to identify, motivate, develop, and train future community leaders. Since that time, LFW, which merged with Greater Fort Wayne Inc. in 2014, has provided more than 1,400 individuals a behind-the-scenes look at all aspects of the community, ranging from the arts to government and economic development. Notable participants include Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry (Class of 1986), Design Collaborative president Pat Pasterick (Class of 1997), Allen County Homeland Security Director Bernie Beier (Class of 2007), MKM architecture + design principal Zach Benedict (Class of 2008), Fort Wayne–Allen County Airport Authority executive director Scott Hinderman (Class of 2009), Embassy Theatre president / CEO Kelly Updike (Class of 2009), Fort Wayne UNITED director Iric Headley (Class of 2019), Fort Wayne Metropolitan Human Relations Commission executive director Nikki Quintana (Class of 2020), Black Chamber Fort Wayne board president Ramadan Abdul-Azeez (Class of 2022), and many more.
Interested individuals can apply online at LeadershipFW.com. For additional information, email mshort@gfwinc.com or call (260) 420-6945.
About Greater Fort Wayne Inc.
Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. serves Fort Wayne and Allen County, Ind., as its metro chamber alliance and primary point of contact for economic growth. GFW Inc. focuses on prosperity and community vibrancy through economic development, advocacy, programs, and resources that support business success, leadership development, graduate retention, and community engagement.
