The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce’s annual leadership program for area professionals is accepting applications for the class of 2025. Leadership Greater Concord (LGC) has introduced over 650 community members to civic activity and volunteer possibilities in NH’s Capital Region for over 30 years.
“It’s kind of been like a cliff notes version of meeting everyone who is involved in the running of the city, or people who are involved in different aspects of growth in Concord. I’ve really enjoyed it and sort of fast-tracked something that would have taken me years to do independently on my own”, said Garry Cornelius from Merrimack County Savings Bank, a member of the LGC class of 2024. This highly immersive program begins in September 2024 and continues with monthly sessions days through May 2025. Participants will get to know different aspects of the city during day-long sessions that cover history, arts and culture, education, livable communities and smart growth, government and politics, the criminal justice system, economic development, communications and the media, and health and human services.
LGC offers an all-star lineup of speakers, including prominent business and civic leaders who are actively working in the Greater Concord community. Past session day speakers have included Governor Sununu, Executive Councilor Cinde Warmington, City of Concord Mayor Byron Champlin, Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Health & Human Services Lori Weaver, Chief Osgood of Concord Police Department, and Jim Schachter CEO of New Hampshire Public Radio. LGC participants have personal conversations with these presenters and continue to engage with them after graduation.
Although LGC is known for offering deep insight on the Capital Region, the bonds formed between classmates and presenters are the highlight of this leadership program. After forging these trusting relationships, the class is able to address and discuss challenging issues, ask difficult questions and share insights brought to light during the session days. Often LGC classmates form lifelong bonds, end up working together as community partners, or use these connections as stepping stones to find impactful volunteer opportunities and civic engagement roles. LGC is uniquely designed to prepare individuals for leadership roles within the community, whether it be serving as an elected official, industry leader, or as a volunteer on a nonprofit board.
The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce invites individuals to learn more about this engaging program and apply online by May 3 at concordnhchamber.com/grow/lead/
Incorporated in 1919, New Hampshire’s state capital chamber of commerce—the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce—develops economic opportunities, strengthens the business climate, and enhances quality of life in the Capital region. As largest chamber in the state, it is deeply invested in the local community and dedicated to shaping competitive economic development strategy, advocating for policies and projects that benefit the region, and promoting Concord as a culturally vibrant visitor destination. For more information, please visit concordnhchamber.com.