"Discover what problem you can help solve in the world by being a successful, focused, and open-minded leader. There is so much out there to learn, and your time in CASL can be a major piece of this growth."
— Evelyn Hatem, CASL graduate
New Leaders
The Chamber encourages local high school sophomores to build practical skills and meet local leaders. CASL is the only student leadership program of its kind in the state.
Capital Area Student Leadership (CASL)
Capital Area Student Leadership (CASL) is an immersive program that encourages students to learn more about their community, and their own unique skills and strengths as leaders. Presented by the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, and generously underwritten by Northeast Delta Dental, CASL has been in existence for more than 25 years, graduated over 700 leaders, and is the only regional student leadership program in the state.
The program includes three day-long sessions in March that feature activities in public speaking, mindfulness, networking, teamwork and creative problem-solving. CASL students interact with professionals from diverse industries, including civic leaders, members of the judiciary, and young entrepreneurs. One of the program highlights is a panel discussion with area business leaders. “Someone I met [during the panel] was Dan,” wrote a student in the CASL class of 2022. “I just remember him the most and his story about how he wasn’t the best student in high school and didn’t get the best grades. He started his own business at 13 by doing yard work and fencing, he met a few people along the way, and now he owns a multi-million-dollar company. He said that not procrastinating was and is a major part of his success.”
All area high school sophomores are invited to apply; the CASL class of 2025 will include students with unique backgrounds and skills who are curious about their local community, developing real-world skills, and exploring career opportunities by connecting with local leaders. “I learned that I thought I was very shy and quiet, however I am capable of speaking in front of large groups of people, sharing my own ideas and opinions, and interacting with others who I do not know. I have learned that I am capable of so much more than I originally had thought,” wrote another student in the CASL class of 2022.
CASL is generously underwritten by Northeast Delta Dental. Supplemental funding for CASL is provided through the Chamber’s annual Funds for Education Golf Tournament.
Who can participate?
Any high school sophomore who resides in or attends school in the Greater Concord area is eligible to apply to CASL. We accept students from public, private, and alternative education programs including but not limited to Bishop Brady, Bow, Concord Christian, Concord, the Derryfield School, Hopkinton, John Stark, Merrimack Valley, Parker Academy, Pembroke Academy and Pittsfield Middle High.
I want to apply!
Applications for the 2025 program are open. The deadline to apply was Wednesday, December 11. Please contact programs@concordnhchamber.com or call (603) 224-2508 if you have questions about your application.
Important program note:
CASL participants meet with prominent civic, community and business leaders throughout the Capital area. Attendance at each session day is vital for CASL to meet its objective. Therefore students who cannot commit to the program in its entirety are asked to refrain from enrolling to leave that slot available to another student who can benefit from the program. CASL is an excused absence with permission from your school administrator or principal. School credit will be given for full participation.
2025 CASL Schedule:
Students who apply and are accepted into the 2025 program are expected to attend the following events:
Student/Family Opening Reception: Tuesday, February 18 from 5:30-6:30 PM
Orientation at NH Audubon: Monday, March 3 from 4:30-7:30 PM
History, Arts, Culture & Community: Wednesday, March 5 from 8 AM to 3 PM
Communications: Wednesday, March 12, from 8 AM to 3 PM
Law & the Judicial Process + Graduation: Wednesday, March 19 from 8 AM to 6 PM
Snow date: Wednesday, March 26
Questions?
Students with questions regarding the program or application process are encouraged to contact the Chamber directly at (603) 224-2508 x 103 or programs@concordnhchamber.com.
Bryanna Marceau, IOM
Vice President of Operations and Programs
(603) 224-2508 x 103
she/her/hers
Hear from CASL graduates
CASL visits the NH State House
Opportunities to meet local leaders were abundant for the CASL class of 2021. During a lunch break in the State House café, Governor Sununu invited the entire CASL class for a spontaneous meeting in his corner office.
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