Leadership Venango


“The single biggest way to impact an organization is to focus on leadership development. There is almost no limit to the potential of an organization that recruits good people, raises them up as leaders and continually develops them.” – John Maxwell

We believe this is the same for communities.

What is Leadership Venango?

The Class of 2019 in front of the Venango County Courthouse

Leadership Venango is a nine-month program designed to identify, educate, involve and motivate individuals who desire to become more effective leaders. The program engages citizens from a broad range of geographical, institutional and economic backgrounds, with the goal to ensure that new leadership will continuously be added to the community. During the nine months, the class will seek to better understand the problems and opportunities we face in creating the best future for Venango County.

“Leadership Venango allows participants to experience Venango County through the lens of leadership, and leadership through the lens of Venango County.”

How do I apply?

Click here to apply online.

Click here for a PDF of the application.

For more information about the program, contact us at:
Venango Area Chamber of Commerce
chamber@venangochamber.org
(814) 676-8521

Tuition and Fees

The cost of the program is $950 per person, and includes all meals, materials, and retreat. Each year, multiple scholarship opportunities are available:

Scholarship Form – Online
Scholarship Form – PDF

Expectations

Participants in Leadership Venango are expected to commit the necessary time to fully participate in the program. Full participation includes:

  • Mandatory attendance at 2 day retreat in September and graduation in May
  • Regular session attendance (only one excused absence), 1 day per month October through May
  • Active participation in each session

Click here to see a list of Leadership Venango Alumni.


Click here to learn more about projects from past classes.


Photos from past classes:


Session Topics

Every session includes speakers and activities focused on leadership skills including topics like conflict management, effective communication, generational differences, board management, and more.

Leadership Venango Retreat (team building, personality evaluations, soft skill building)

Agriculture and Sustainability (local agriculture, sustainable foresting, servant leadership)

Maximizing Clean Communications (local communication channels, media training, social media, public speaking)

Understanding Community Caregiving (local non-profit overview, county services, poverty simulation)

Honorable Leadership (local government overview, business ethics, board member development)

The Importance of an Educated Workforce (continuing education, funding education in our region, workforce development)

Business & Economic Development (economic development, strategic planning)

Leading a Healthy Community (how healthcare affects our region, opiod crisis, generational differences)

Attracting Residents & Visitors (local heritage, history and recreation, tourism)


Class Resources:

Class of 2025 Schedule

Current class (click for more):


Previous classes (click for more):