What is Leadership Douglas County (LDC)?

Leadership Douglas County is a community leadership program designed to develop informed, involved, and knowledgeable community members for Douglas County.  The program will create community leaders from all walks of life through academic training and by focusing on our community’s leadership needs, history, values, members, strengths, and issues.  Leadership Douglas County is an opportunity to participate in the creation of a vision for our future.

Who are the Participants?

Leadership Douglas County brings together individuals from all walks of life, including business professionals, nonprofit leaders, educators, government employees, entrepreneurs, volunteers, and community members who share a desire to learn, grow, and make a difference.

One of the greatest strengths of LDC is the relationships built along the way. Participants gain a deeper understanding of their community, exchange ideas, broaden their perspectives, and develop lasting friendships and connections with people they might not otherwise have the opportunity to meet. The program encourages a sense of ownership, responsibility, trust, and a shared commitment to making Douglas County an even better place to live, work, and serve.

Since its first graduating class in 1996, Leadership Douglas County has developed approximately 470 graduates who continue to make a meaningful impact throughout our region. You'll find LDC alumni leading businesses, serving in public office, supporting nonprofit organizations, volunteering, and contributing to the community in countless ways.

Leadership Douglas County isn't just about developing leaders. It's about connecting people, strengthening our community, and inspiring individuals to turn what they learn into meaningful action.

What is the Commitment?

Your commitment as a program participant is to attend all the sessions of the eleven-month program. LDC begins in January and ends in November. Sessions are held the third Tuesday of each month from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Candidates will complete nine experiential homework assignments (seven from a selected list and two mandatory) to assist in developing an understanding of responsibilities, opportunities and roles for future community involvement. Finally, candidates will work together to develop and complete a Community Project during the eleven month program.

What Will You Experience?

Imagine having a backstage pass to Douglas County—a chance to go behind the scenes, open doors you may never have walked through, meet the people making decisions, and experience your community in ways most people never get to. That is what Leadership Douglas County is all about!

Throughout the year, you will step outside your everyday routine and discover what makes our community work. You will meet local and state leaders, explore public safety and the judicial system, visit schools and businesses, experience our agricultural heritage, and gain firsthand insight into the organizations and services that shape our region. From Carson Valley to Lake Tahoe, you will explore tourism, recreation, economic development, government, education, natural resources, and the people who make it all happen.

But the real value goes far beyond the places you visit. It is the conversations you would not otherwise have, the perspectives you have not considered, the relationships you build, and the opportunities you discover. You will ask questions, exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, and gain a deeper appreciation for our community’s strengths and challenges.

And perhaps the greatest surprise? Leadership is not always about being the person in charge. Sometimes it is about showing up, asking better questions, bringing people together, and recognizing where you can make a difference.

You may think you know Douglas County. We invite you to experience it from a whole new perspective.

Come curious. Be engaged. Build connections. Leave inspired—and ready to make a difference.

What is the Cost?

Chamber members: $1,000    Nonmembers: $1,300. A $200 deposit is required with the application and is applied toward tuition. Tuition includes program materials, meals, scheduled transportation, and graduation. Employer sponsorship and approved payment plans are available.

Application and tuition deadline: Friday, December 4, 2026, by 4:00 PM, unless participating in an approved payment plan.