FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Applications to become part of the Leadership Fort Wayne (LFW) program’s Class of 2020 are now available. LFW is a premier program that builds leadership skills and increases community awareness to drive positive change. Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2019.
“The opportunity to connect with such a diverse range of colleagues and learn leadership styles and effective ways of communication is priceless,” Reneta Thurairatnam, a 2016 program alumna, said about her LFW experience. “There is so much to learn about our community and how to get engaged.”
Class members participate in panel discussions with heads of community organizations, discussing the most pressing issues and opportunities facing the community. They receive leadership training from professionals, focused on topics that are most relevant in today’s ever-changing society. In addition, class members participate in Community Action Projects, shadowing experiences, personality and talent assessments, and have the opportunity to serve a one-year internship on the board of a nonprofit organization.
The program is under new guidance this year. Barry Schrock, who recently joined Greater Fort Wayne Inc. as director of leadership programs, will oversee LFW. He brings nearly 30 years of relevant experience to the role. Schrock previously owned a consulting firm that specialized in leadership training and coaching for individuals, teams, school districts, nonprofits, and private-sector companies. He has also served as a basketball coach, educational leader, a featured keynote and conference speaker, workshop trainer, and a personal coach to numerous C-suite executives including CEOs, vice presidents, and managers.
“Great communities need great leaders, and I’m honored to play a role in developing those leaders,” Schrock said. “LFW has made an undeniable impact on our community over the years. I look forward to carrying on that tradition.”
LFW was founded in 1983 to identify, motivate, develop, and train future community leaders. Since that time, LFW, which merged with Greater Fort Wayne Inc. in 2014, has provided more than 1,300 individuals a behind-the-scenes look at all aspects of the community, ranging from the arts to government and economic development.
Interested participants can download the materials and apply online at LFWapp.gfwinc.com. All applications must include a letter of recommendation, preferably from an LFW alumnus. For additional information, email leadership@greaterfortwayneinc.com or call (260) 420-6945.
About Greater Fort Wayne Inc.
Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. serves Fort Wayne and Allen County, Indiana, as its metro chamber alliance and primary point of contact for economic growth. GFW Inc. focuses on prosperity and community vibrancy through economic development, advocacy, programs, and resources that support business success, leadership development, graduate retention, and community engagement.
