Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  How do I apply?
A:   Visit www.valparaisochamber.org and click on the Leadership Academy logo. Once you’re there, you can print out the application, complete it and send it back by fax or through mail if you prefer. APPLY TODAY!   .doc file   .pdf file

Q:  How will participants be selected for the program?
A:   Applications are reviewed by a selection committee who will consider a number of criteria when selecting participants. They will be paying careful attention to your answers, so the information you supply on your application is very important.

Q:  Is the Leadership Academy time consuming?
A:  That’s a valid concern. The program was designed with the needs of busy professionals in mind. The Leadership Academy is composed of seven (7) sessions meeting on Wednesdays, from 11:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Aug. 25, Sept. 8; Sept. 22; Oct. 6; Oct. 20, Nov. 3 and Nov. 17. Your class will also plan the curriculum and logistics for the final session on Nov 17. Your class will work on this project outside of the regular meetings at times designated by your group.

Q:  Do I have to attend every session?
A:  Yes. Being accepted for the Leadership Academy is like signing a contract and both sides have obligations. We’ve agreed to challenge you and provide opportunities for interaction with existing leadership on community issues. You agreed to be focused, participatory and attentive at each session. Plus you owe it to your employer (who may be paying for this experience) to get the most out of the experience. 

Because attendance is mandatory, participants who have unexcused absences may be withdrawn from the Leadership Academy.

Q:  Is there an age requirement?
A:  No. The Leadership Academy is committed to having diverse and dynamic participants. The Academy seeks participants who represent a cross section of the community.

Q:  As a participant what can I expect at each session?
A:  Each session will begin with lunch and networking followed by a curriculum focusing on professional development and community connections. These sessions will include speakers from the public, private and non-profit sectors. Each session wraps up with reflection and evaluation. 

Q:  I’m new to Valparaiso, but have past experience in leadership roles – how will the Leadership Academy help me?
A:  Through the sessions, you will: be exposed to the critical issues facing the community; be acquainted with current leaders with community needs and be provided with opportunities for interaction with existing leadership on community issues.

Q:  Is it a requirement that I become involved in the community to be accepted in the Leadership Academy?
A:  Yes. Upon graduation, participants are expected to become continually, substantively, and actively engaged within community organizations in leadership roles. Current or past community involvement is not a prerequisite for acceptance.

Q:  How will I be connected with local organizations?
A:  Current community and organizational leaders will be part of the sessions, giving you the opportunity to talk with them one on one. A list of available leadership openings will also be provided to the participants. Through the partnership with United Way of Porter County, organizations will be submitting their volunteer openings complete with details and contact information and Leadership Academy participants will have access to this website.

Q:  What if I have other questions?
A:  You can contact Susan Antoszewski, Leadership Academy Staff Liaison at santoszewski@valparaisochamber.org or call (219) 462-1105.