The Business Leadership Academy is a regional program for current and emerging leaders, offered in partnership with the Sequim and Port Angeles Chambers and Peninsula College.
The Business Leadership Academy is a regional program designed for current and emerging leaders, offered in partnership with the Sequim and Port Angeles Chambers and Peninsula College. This program was developed in response to a strong need for leadership development, as identified through community surveys, and consistent requests from local businesses. Participants in the Academy will engage with the business community, enhance their leadership skills, and learn from exemplary leaders who drive our region's vitality.
Applications are currently being accepted. Please apply using our online form below.
Business Leadership Academy Application
Program Highlights & Benefits:
- Grow and strengthen leadership skills.
- By building your personalized development plan.
- Engage in assessments to learn your strengths and opportunities for growth.
- Increase your knowledge and understanding of the region, leaders, and decision-making processes.
- Personal Network Growth
- Build long-lasting relationships with peers in the 2025 Academy.
- Meet exemplary community leaders who impact our business community.
- Collaboration & Communication
- Tackle a Chamber of Commerce strategic project that benefits our community.
Academy Details
Registration Opens:
October 1, 2024
Academy Duration:
January 31–June 6, 2025
Academy Cost:
$750 per person
Academy Schedule
Session 1: Welcome Session
Date: January 31 • 9:00 am–3:30 pm
Description: Introduction to the program, focusing on strengths-based leadership and creating personalized development plans. Lunch provided.
Guest Speakers: Beth Pratt & Marc Abshire
Session 2: Chamber of Commerce Strategic Project
Date: February 7 • 2:30–4:30 pm
Description: Work on a Chamber of Commerce project to benefit the community.
Guest Speakers: Beth Pratt & Marc Abshire
Session 3: The Challenge of Leading
Date: February 21 • 2:30–4:30 pm
Description: Local leaders share their leadership journeys, focusing on strength development and overcoming challenges.
Guest Speakers: Panel
Session 4: Visioning and Focus on the Future
Date: March 7 • 2:30–4:30 pm
Description: Learn how leaders create and achieve visions while respecting diverse perspectives.
Lecturer: Christian Bruhn
Session 5: Port Angeles History
Date: March 21 • 1:30–3:30 pm (optional underground tour 4:00-6:00 pm)
Description: Explore the history of Port Angeles and its impact on local industry.
Lecturer: David Brownell, North Olympic History Center & Steve Hargis, PA Visitor Center
Session 6: Sequim History
Date: April 4 • 12:30 - 5:00 pm
Description: Understand Sequim’s history and its influence on industry.
Lecturer: David Brownell, North Olympic History Center
Session 7: Leading Change and Risk Taking
Date: April 18 • 2:30–4:30 pm
Description: Explore strategies for embracing change and taking risks to drive innovation.
Lecturer: Rob DeCou
Session 8: The Heart of the Community
Date: May 2 • 2:30–4:30 pm
Description: Discover the role of government and public safety in building a vibrant community.
Guest Speakers: Panel
Session 9: Effective Messaging
Date: May 16 • 2:30–4:30 pm
Description: Develop communication strategies for high-stress situations, including public speaking, media interactions, and de-escalation techniques.
Lecturer: Dr. Suzy Ames
Session 10: Nonprofits in Clallam County
Date: May 30 • 2:30–4:30 pm
Description: Understand nonprofit leadership, board roles, and how nonprofits support the community.
Guest Speakers: Panel
Session 11: Celebration Luncheon
Date: June 6 • 10:00 am–2:00 pm
Description: A joint celebration with Port Angeles and Sequim chambers to honor the cohort’s achievements, with public recognition and certificates awarded.
Business Leadership Academy Printable Schedule
Resources
Please use the digital application at the top of this page. If needed, you may print the application and submit it to the Community Education Office at Peninsula College's Port Angeles campus.