Forty years ago, visionary leaders in Plano recognized that dynamic growth was imminent. They determined that, to prepare for this growth, they needed to recruit and train men and women with diverse perspectives who were prepared to address issues critical to Plano’s future.
Leadership Plano grew from that vision.
Over the years, more than 1,200 individuals have graduated from the program, with many taking on significant community leadership roles. Leadership Plano is dedicated to educating, developing, and empowering current and future leaders for the community, motivating them to serve civic, charitable, and business organizations, according to its mission statement.
Kelle Marsalis, President/CEO of the Plano Chamber of Commerce, says, "Leadership Plano is the flagship leadership program for the Plano Chamber. Our business investors value the leadership training and community engagement it provides to established and up-and-coming leaders within their companies. The Plano Chamber is proud of the immense impact Leadership Plano has had on Plano and our greater region for more than 40 years."
Leadership Plano graduates serve on the Plano City Council, including Mayor John Muns and City Manager Mark Israelson. Of the seven Plano ISD Board of Trustees, four are alumni of Leadership Plano, including Board President Nancy Humphrey and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Theresa Williams. Leadership Plano alumni also serve as executive directors and board members of many local nonprofit organizations, putting the skills they learned into action.
Dr. Theresa Williams, Plano Superintendent of Schools, said, "Leadership Plano was a transformative experience for me. I gained essential leadership insights, an expanded network, and community knowledge, which have been invaluable in my leadership journey from Deputy Superintendent to Superintendent. Now, I am thrilled to give back to the community as a Leadership Plano alum and board member."
Sam Johnson, Chair of the Leadership Plano Advisory Board, said, "Recruitment for the program is a year-round activity. We seek individuals who are committed to Plano’s service and business communities and who want to learn more about Plano. We aim for a diverse pool of applicants who are willing and able to dedicate the time and effort required to gain the skills necessary to become future leaders."
Through eight full-day, monthly class sessions, Leadership Plano introduces class members to the community and its leaders, including city and school district officials, business executives, leaders of healthcare and public safety institutions, and regional and state leaders. The final session, entitled "Servant Leadership," introduces dozens of nonprofit organizations serving Plano, helping class members discover their passion and encouraging them to apply for board or volunteer service.
Application forms are available online on the Plano Chamber of Commerce website.
CRITERIA FOR SELECTION:
- A history of involvement or a strong desire to become actively involved in the community.
- A commitment to ongoing personal development and community education.
- A willingness to accept leadership roles with civic, charitable, and community organizations.
- A commitment to program attendance and participation requirements.
Application forms are available online on the Plano Chamber of Commerce website.
CRITERIA FOR SELECTION:
- A history of involvement or a strong desire to become actively involved in the community.
- A commitment to ongoing personal development and community education.
- A willingness to accept leadership roles with civic, charitable, and community organizations.
- A commitment to program attendance and participation requirements.
