Applications are Open for the Leadership Greater Syracuse Class of 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Michele Diecuch
michele@leadsyr.org
(315) 422-5471

Applications are Open for the Leadership Greater Syracuse Class of 2026

(March 26, 2025 – East Syracuse, New York) – Leadership Greater Syracuse (LGS) is announcing that applications for its 2026 flagship program are now being accepted. Individuals interested in developing their leadership skills while becoming part of a network of engaged community members are encouraged to apply.

Since its inception in 1990, LGS has graduated more than 1,500 people from its renowned flagship program. LGS’s mission is to inspire current and future leaders to make a difference in the community where we live and work. Each year, approximately 50 people are equipped with skills and confidence to further their careers and community-engagement aspirations while building lifelong connections. The tuition-based program, which begins in January, is a full-year experiential learning program. It entrenches individuals into the achievements and challenges of the Syracuse community and encourages service and civic action.

LGS participants represent employees from a cross-section of local employers, including corporations, nonprofits, government agencies, and start-ups. Applicants with various backgrounds, experiences, and education levels are encouraged to apply. It is for anyone—whether new in one’s career, looking to advance, wanting to try something new in retirement, or simply eager to give back.

“The program is masterfully facilitated by program director, Robin Macaluso, who has been with LGS for 18 years,” says Michele Diecuch, Executive Director of Leadership Greater Syracuse. “There is no doubt you will be inspired by the LGS experience.” Participants will connect with private and public leaders and key decision makers with the goal that they will take more active roles in their workplaces and within the community. By strengthening their own leadership style and learning about others’ styles, they will gain insight that can be used in all facets of their lives.

LGS’s 1,500 graduates come from more than 500 different employers across the Central New York area. Nearly 85 percent of participants remain in the CNY area and more than 900 have participated in community volunteer roles.

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 29, 2025. Partial tuition assistance is also available for applicants who need it.

Leadership Greater Syracuse’s mission is to inspire current and future leaders to make a difference in the community where we live and work. It was founded by CenterState CEO, Onondaga County, the City of Syracuse, and Onondaga Community College. LGS, a 501(c)(3), 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.

###