"Personally I feel I have benefited in many ways. The relationships I have built are more than just business relationships they are personal friendships. I feel privileged to be part of such a dynamic group of present and future leaders of Springfield. You look around the media and you see members of our class communicating vital information to the citizens of Springfield. These people are already trusted community leaders as well as experts in their own fields. I feel more strongly committed to improving the quality of life we have in Springfield than I ever have. I also feel more encouraged and assured that we live in one of the best places in the entire country."
-Jeff Chronister, account executive, Ollis & Company, Class XVIII
Academy
Established in 1990 as a project of Leadership Springfield, the Academy is open to juniors from nine Springfield public and private high schools. Thirty-two students are selected each year for a shortened version of the adult program. Initial funding for the project during the first four classes was provided by the Southeast Rotary, Sunrise Rotary Club and Springfield Rotary Club. The Leadership Springfield Golf Tournament and program day sponsors are now the main funding sources for the Academy.
The program goals of the academy are:
- To provide exposure to community structure and issues.
- To provide interaction between developing leaders and the established leaders of today.
- To develop personal skills needed for future roles as leaders.
- To emphasize the importance of community service.
- To harness the enthusiasm of youth to help solve local problems.
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