About Us Leadership Lackawanna is considered northeastern Pennsylvania’s premier leadership development program for emerging professionals. This 10-month program was established in 1982 under the sponsorship of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and, to date, has graduated more than 900 community leaders.
Leadership Lackawanna fosters the development of community leaders by providing participants with leadership, interpersonal and managerial skills and an enhanced understanding of the issues and topics relevant to the Greater Scranton area through various monthly sessions. These sessions include, but are not limited to, community development, economic development, government, health care, law, education, quality of life, sustainability, history and media. Sessions are held one weekday each month, and are facilitated by widely recognized specialists from various disciplines.
Sherry S. Strain PhD
Professor of Communications/Chair, Division of Communications Arts and Humanities, Keystone College
In addition to the monthly sessions, class members participate in group projects to enhance their leadership skills and foster teamwork. All of the projects have had an impact on the community and several have continued on through the work of the respective groups or specific agencies, such as the Board Bank, Dress for Success Lackawanna and Aim High.
Leadership Lackawanna draws participants from various geographic, racial, ethnic, occupational and economic segments of the community and introduces them to the major issues and challenges facing Lackawanna County. The selection process for interested candidates starts with a confidential application. It is reviewed by a selection committee on the basis of demonstrated or potential leadership ability, interest in community affairs, and a desire for an increased commitment to community and professional service.
Upon graduation participants are now equipped with the information and skills to make an impact in the community. Graduates are encouraged to volunteer their time and talents in charting the future, growth and direction for Lackawanna County and its various organizations.
The program is open to candidates who either live or work in Lackawanna County. Class size is limited. Full and partial scholarships are available on a limited basis to qualified candidates. Optional graduate credit programs are available to Leadership Lackawanna participants in cooperation with Marywood University and Keystone College. At Marywood, eligible individuals can earn three graduate credits in public administration; and at Keystone, eligible individuals can earn three upper level undergraduate credits in BUSN 315: Workplace Environments.
The Leadership Lackawanna Executive Program is designed to assist new professionals and their spouses/guests in making a knowledgeable transition into the community and give them support in developing a broad social network. Through weekly sessions, participants will meet key business and community leaders and receive an overview of the area’s history, economic and political structures, cultural affairs and leisure amenities. Sessions are conducted one evening per week, for five consecutive weeks, at various locations throughout the community. Each session is held from 6:00-9:00 p.m. and includes cocktails and dinner.
More specifically, the Executive Program provides participants a comprehensive look at the makeup of Lackawanna County, offers a sampling of the area's major cultural and recreational opportunities and encourages individuals to become involved in community activities and civic groups.
The program is open to public and private sector administrators/professionals in an executive level position. The candidate must either live in or work in the greater Scranton area. Candidates should possess an interest in learning how Lackawanna County functions and a commitment to enhance the area's economy and quality of life.
The affairs of Leadership Lackawanna are managed by a part time administrator and a 30 person Board of Directors. It is the responsibility of the Board to establish policies, to approve budgets, to create committees, to financially support the Leadership Lackawanna Alumni and Friends Association, to attend events and activities and to work with the Administrator. The board is divided into nine sub-committees: nominating, program, advisory, public relations, executive program, alumni, finance, selection and graduation recognition dinner.
Leadership Lackawanna presents three awards annually: Alumni Leader of the Year, Class Leader of the Year and Shining Star. Alumni Leader of the Year is presented to a graduate of the program who best embodies the philosophy of Leadership Lackawanna. The award recognizes graduates who have used the Leadership Lackawanna experience for the betterment of the community. Truly this award exemplifies the lasting impact of the Leadership Lackawanna program. Recipient of the Class Leader of the Year award exemplifies the desired outcomes of the Leadership Lackawanna program through his or her actions during the class year. This person serves as an inspiration and role model for the other members within the class. The Shining Star award is presented to a member of the current class who is positive, enthuastic, encouraging and engaging. Overall, their above-average dedication to the program—consisting of improving it, expanding it and spreading its message to others—makes them worthy of this award.
