Leadership Greater Syracuse (LGS) is announcing that applications for its 2027 flagship program are now being accepted through August 28. Anyone interested in honing their leadership skills while becoming part of a network of engaged community members is encouraged to apply.
Since its inception in 1990, LGS has graduated 1,600 people from its unique community leadership program. LGS’s mission is to foster and connect community leaders committed to shaping the future of Central New York. The year-long community leadership program will begin again in January 2027 with the intent of immersing participants into the achievements and challenges of the Syracuse community. Each year, a class of approximately 50 people are equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and meaningful connections needed to further their careers and become inspired to be engaged within the community.
LGS participants represent employees from a cross-section of local employers, including corporations, nonprofits, government agencies, and start-ups. LGS aims to build a diverse class of participants with various backgrounds, experiences, and education levels. To date, more than 600 local employers have put forth candidates.
“This community leadership program is for anyone—whether new in their career, looking to advance, retired, or just simply eager to give back,” says Michele Diecuch, Executive Director of Leadership Greater Syracuse.” “The experience means different things to different people, which is part of what makes it so special.”
This program will connect participants with private and public leaders and key decision makers in the community. Further, by strengthening their own leadership style and learning about others’ styles, participants will gain insight that can be used in all facets of their lives. The goal is for participants to feel empowered to affect change in a growing and changing Syracuse landscape.
As stated by a graduate, “The LGS experience cannot be replicated. I graduated with a much deeper understanding and appreciation of our community than I ever could have anticipated. The opportunity to meet so many wonderful people and to learn from some of the most forward-thinking innovators in our area was an immeasurable benefit to me, both personally and professionally.”
Information and an application can be found on Leadership Greater Syracuse’s website. The deadline is August 28, 2026. Partial tuition assistance is also available for applicants who need it.
Leadership Greater Syracuse’s mission is to foster and connect community leaders committed to shaping the future of Central New York. It was founded by CenterState CEO, Onondaga County, the City of Syracuse, and Onondaga Community College. LGS, founded in 1990, is a 501(c)(3). It is financially supported by many organizations including United Radio, Turning Stone Resort Casino, Community Bank, and VIP Structures.
For more information about Leadership Greater Syracuse, visit http://www.leadsyr.org.