On May 12, the Seward County Chamber & Development Partnership unveiled a new countywide leadership development program, Seward County Leadership Academy, which begins in September 2025.
This was announced during the graduation of its most recent class of the Rising Stars Leadership Program, the current leadership development program for the county. As one class concludes, the search for a new cohort begins as applications for enrollment for Seward County Leadership Academy are now open.
The Leadership Academy will be unique with more tangible takeaways from participants of the program. Some of the outcomes from the Academy will be: Developing clarity and confidence in communicating with and leading others; taking a personalized assessment tool and receiving feedback; setting and acting upon goals within a personal professional development plan; writing and delivering a speech or presentation with 1:1 coaching; practice giving and receiving feedback in situations of conflict and compliment; enhancing social media professional networking skills; and increasing awareness of Seward County through industry partner visits.
Those accepted into the Leadership Academy commit to participating in a monthly development session scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with lunch provided, September through April and a graduation event in May. Those in the cohort will see the Seven Pillars of Seward County in action (as referenced in the Vision Statement 2035) as they tour Seward County businesses, visit the Capitol for their legislation day, and put their learned skills to practical use in a countywide project.
“When employees are richly invested in, they are more engaged with their work mission and can grow as leaders,” said Anita Foor, the curriculum developer and facilitator of the Leadership Academy. “When leaders are engaged in their workplace, the workplace culture and productivity improve.”
Leadership Academy is available for all people currently in the workforce who desire to improve their skills. The program is an ideal fit for someone who is new to their place of employment or to the county; recently took or will be taking a position of leadership in their business; or is new to the workforce and looking to advance professionally.
Seward County Leadership Academy is now accepting applications. Those who are interested in applying for Leadership Academy can visit www.cultivatesewardcounty.com/chamber to learn more and apply.
“For $900 per participant, which equates to $100 per session, employers will invest in their employees to give them an opportunity to transform into confident and capable leaders in their workplace,” said Jonathan Jank, president and CEO of the SCCDP. “Leadership is developed from practicing and honing. Enrollment in Leadership Academy will give employees the chance to learn and develop those skills.”
From May 13 through June 13, Seward County businesses and organizations are eligible for the Early Bird Discount, which is $800 per employer registration. Applications close Aug. 15. Scholarships will be considered for professionals who expressed an identified need.
For any questions, contact Collin Hain at SCCDP (402) 643-4189 or collin@cultivatesewardcounty.com.
