Established in 1985, Leadership Greater Little Rock seeks to develop community leaders by training and informing participants on a wide array of local public policy issues and concerns. In-depth training sessions focus on these issues, exploring their background, origin and present-day status. The program covers a full slate of topics, including government, the area’s economy, education, social services and much more. The sessions combine lectures, tours, dialogue and interaction between speakers and participants.

THE PURPOSE
Leadership Greater Little Rock is aimed at developing a network of competent leaders for present and future community needs. To meet this goal, LGLR seeks to:

• Identify and motivate individuals with leadership potential

• Acquaint them with community needs, challenges and opportunities

• Offer a forum of exchange on methods for dealing with community issues

• Challenge potential leaders to become involved with local issues and the decision-making process.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Leadership Greater Little Rock (LGLR) is a nine-month community leadership program committed to enhancing and connecting leaders from businesses, nonprofits and government. This unique program has empowered participants with a comprehensive understanding of our region’s challenges and opportunities. Each month (October – June), the class meets at a different central Arkansas location to explore topics through expert speakers, panelists, tours and group presentations. With very strict attendance guidelines, class members are allowed to miss no more than 16 hours (each session is considered 8 hours). Additionally, the 2-day retreat, held in October, is mandatory for participation in the class.

HISTORY

Originally dubbed the Greater Little Rock Leadership Institute, LGLR is an initiative of the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce. Following adoption of the program in 1985 by the Chamber’s Board of Directors, Jim Dailey was named first Chairman of the program, while Jimmy Moses was appointed to head the Curriculum Committee. Volunteers have served in these positions in each succeeding year. Approximately 50 participants are selected each year. The program, now run by an independent board of trustees, promotes the involvement of its members in the community, generating enthusiasm and new community leadership beyond what was envisioned in 1985.