Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Leadership Lackawanna?

Leadership Lackawanna is the community education/leadership development program of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, structured to provide an in-depth analysis of key issues facing Northeastern Pennsylvania. The 10-month program runs from September through June with sessions held the second Thursday of each month. Sessions focus on the major issues and challenges facing Lackawanna County with topics like community development, health care, education, quality of life, labor/management relations, media, volunteerism, crime and corrections, and regionalization.

What is the difference between Leadership Lackawanna and the Executive Program?

Leadership Lackawanna is a 10-month community education/leadership development program. It runs from September through June with day-long sessions held the second Thursday of each month. Sessions focus on the major issues and challenges facing Lackawanna County with topics like community development, economic development, health care, education, quality of life, labor/management relations, media, government, volunteerism, crime and corrections, and regionalization. Leadership Lackawanna is open to anyone who is a leader at work or in the community, has the desire to expand his or her knowledge of the region, and is willing to make the time commitment to successfully complete the program is eligible.

The Executive Program consists of five weekly sessions aimed at assisting professionals and their spouses who have recently relocated to the Greater Scranton area or been promoted to an executive level position in making a knowledgeable transition to our community. Sessions are conducted one evening per week for five consecutive weeks at various locations throughout the community from 6-9 p.m. All programs include cocktails and dinner. Sessions provide participants with a comprehensive look at the makeup of Lackawanna County, an opportunity to meet key business and community leaders, will offer a sampling of the area's major cultural and recreational opportunities, will provide an extensive overview of the area's history, economic and political structures, cultural affairs and leisure amenities, and encourages individuals to become involved in community activities and civic groups. The Executive Program is open to public and private sector administrators/professionals who have either recently moved to the Greater Scranton area or who have resided here for less than two years.

How much time will I have to commit to the program?

Participants cannot miss more than two sessions in the program year. In addition to the monthly sessions, participants help plan a session, and work on group projects to enhance their leadership skills. Participants and their employers must be willing to commit the necessary time to participate in the Leadership Lackawanna program.

How long has Leadership Lackawanna been active in the community?

Leadership Lackawanna was founded on June 22, 1982, by private and public sector officials, and the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce.

Is this program available in other regions around the country?
There are over 1,000 community leadership programs like Leadership Lackawanna throughout the country. For other leadership related news, books, and web resources, visit the Community Leadership Association.

What opportunities are available to me after graduating from the program?

You can serve on the Leadership Board or Leadership Alumni Council; or you can get involved in committees and attend Leadership Lackawanna events.

What is the class size?

The average class size is between 25-35 participants.

How do I apply?

Nominations for new class members are accepted year-round from Leadership Lackawanna alumni and community members. In February, formal applications are sent to the nominees.

How are participants selected?

Approximately 30 participants are selected each year from various sectors of the community. The selection committee reviews the applications and notifies applicants of their inclusion in the class.

Are scholarships available?

There are several full and partial scholarships available for qualified candidates. Recipients are chosen by a selection committee.

What is the cost of the program?

Tuition for the Leadership Lackawanna Program is $950, plus a $15 non-refundable application fee. In many cases, an employer or membership organization will pay this tuition to develop the leadership skills and encourage the community involvement of their employees or members. Leadership Lackawanna also offers a limited number of scholarships.

What are the benefits to the employer?

By enrolling them in Leadership Lackawanna, employers can provide their employees with enhanced leadership and decision-making skills as well as making them more connected and committed to the community. The program offers an opportunity to reward and invest in employees and improve retention. Employers will also gain access to additional opportunities for partnerships and new business relationships.

Am I eligible?

Anyone who is a leader at work or in the community, has the desire to expand his or her knowledge of the region, and is willing to make the time commitment to successfully complete the program is eligible.