Regional Chamber Announces Open Enrollment for Esteemed Leadership Program

The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut is pleased to announce that enrollment is now open for the Leadership Eastern Connecticut Class of 2027. Guided by its mission since 1987, the program prepares rising professionals for positions of responsibility by acquainting them with community processes and pressing regional issues and opportunities.  

Highlights of the two-year program include:

• Insightful Monthly Sessions: Participants engage in hands-on, skill-based activities and discussions with regional leaders across key institutions.
• Capstone Community Service Project: Applying their learnings, cohorts create a meaningful group impact initiative benefiting a local non-profit.
• Robust Networking Opportunities: From seasoned executives to community advocates, participants build connections with an array of individuals that last well beyond the program.

A limited number of scholarships are available, designed to support participants who demonstrate financial need and a strong commitment to community leadership. The Pillars of the Community Scholarship, supported by the Chamber’s Regional Benefactors, invites an applicant employed by or running a small business (under 20 total full-time equivalent employees), or by a non-profit, not-for-profit, or municipality, for tuition support of up to 60% to apply. The Aspire Scholarship, made possible by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, invites women of color, including black/African American, Hispanic/Latina, AAPI, and Native American, who reside in New London County, to apply for tuition support up to 100%.

The Leadership Program is administered by the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut staff and alumni. Sessions include Orientation, Health and Human Services, Economic Development, Education, Diversity Equity and Inclusion, Military, Leadership, Government, Tourism Arts & Transportation, culminating in a class retreat and formal graduation ceremony.

Interested applicants may view the full eligibility guidelines and submit here.

The deadline for program and scholarship forms is Friday, August 15, 2025, at 11:30 P.M.

About the Leadership Eastern Connecticut Program: 
Since its inception 38 years ago, the Leadership Eastern Connecticut Program has empowered emerging leaders with practical skills, regional insights, and a strong civic network. Through dynamic learning sessions, community immersion, and impactful service projects, graduates emerge ready to serve in leadership roles across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Hear previous program graduates’ testimonies on our YouTube channel.