About the Program

The Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Institute strives to provide Greenville-Pitt County with an enduring source of diverse leaders who are prepared and committed to serving the community.  During the eight-month program, participants get an in-depth view of community issues, develop leadership skills necessary to assume leadership roles, and are exposed to community involvement opportunities.  Participants study the qualities that make an effective leader, analyze individual leadership roles, and develop personal leadership styles and skills.  The program will open your eyes to new challenges and opportunities and the role you can play in shaping the future of our community and region.

Through hands-on experience, participants fully explore topics such as: education, government and law, arts and culture, economic development, health care, business and industry, and media.  The program culminates with a graduation ceremony and the unveiling of the class project.  Once graduated, participants become alumni of the program and continue their impact on the Greenville-Pitt County community.

The Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Institute has trained and graduated over 1,061 civic leaders since its inception in 1983.

What can the Leadership Institute do for you?

The ultimate goal of the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Institute is for participants to become actively involved in leadership roles in the community, thus enriching the quality of life and shaping the future.  During the eight-month program, participants will gain:

  • Personal leadership skills and development
  • An in-depth view of critical issues facing our community
  • Opportunities to discuss key issues with community leaders
  • Access to opportunities for community involvement
  • New and strengthened relationships with peers

Testimonials

"As Eastern Radiologist's Business Process and Development Manager and Physician Recruiter, it is my responsibility to try and convince people who have never heard of Greenville, NC to give it a chance, move and raise their families here.  I knew that the Leadership Institute would be an excellent way to learn everything I can to help promote our area.  I have lived in Pitt County for over 24 years and thought I knew all there was to know about Greenville, but boy was I wrong.  The Leadership Institute taught me so much professionally and personally.  The program helped provide me with skills to use in everyday life when dealing with different personalities/work ethics and leadership skills to help all those around me succeed and grow." ~ Erica Askew, Class of 2024

FAQS

How long is the program?
The Leadership Institute runs from September - May.  There is an opening reception that serves as a meet and greet for the participants and sponsors.  Attendance for the opening reception is highly encouraged.  The program begins with a mandatory overnight retreat at the Trinity Center in Pine Knoll Shores, NC.  There is one program session each month and the program concludes with a graduation ceremony.

Who can apply?
Applicants must be employed by a chamber member business/organization in good standing and live and/or work in Pitt County.  Applications are carefully reviewed by the Leadership Advisory Council and participants are selected based on community involvement and their commitment to bettering themselves and their community.  Applicants must have prior approval of their supervisor, if applicable for this commitment.

How much does the program cost?
Tuition for the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Institute is $1,500.  The tuition fee covers all related expenses associated with the program.  Cancellation after acceptance into the program, but prior to the retreat, results in forfeiture of 50% of the tuition.  No refund will be made if cancellation occurs after August 21, 2025.  Tuition must be paid in full by the due date listed on the application.

What are the program requirements?
Over the course of the program, no class member may miss more than two class sessions.  If a participant is unable to attend a class session, he/she must provide notification prior to that respective session.  To successfully graduate from the program, participants are expected to adhere to the attendance requirements.

Leadership Institute Application Form

Click Here to Apply

Applications are due by Friday, July 25, 2025.

2025-2026 Session Dates:

  • Opening Reception
    Thursday, August 21, 2025 | 3:30 p.m.
    Pitt-Greenville Airport

  • Overnight Retreat
    Thursday, September 18 - Friday, September 19, 2025
    Trinity Center - Pine Knoll Shores, NC

  • Session I - This is Pitt County
    Wednesday, October 8, 2025

  • Session II - Government & Law
    Wednesday, November 12, 2025

  • Session III - Make a Difference
    Wednesday, December 10, 2025

  • Session IV - Economic Growth, Development, & Branding
    Wednesday, January 14, 2026

  • Session V - Education
    Wednesday, February 11, 2026

  • Session VI - Business & Industry
    Wednesday, March 11, 2026

  • Session VII - Healthcare
    Wednesday, April 15, 2026

  • Graduation Ceremony
    Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Are you a Leadership Institute Alumni?

Please click here to help us update your information. 

Questions?

Please contact Kimber Stone or call (252) 752-4101 ext. 2222.

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