Washoe County is now accepting applications for its Washoe County Leadership Academy (WCLA), an immersive nine-month program designed to develop local leaders and expand professional networks.
This is an educational and leadership program unlike any other in the community, promoting knowledge of local government and providing leadership training in conjunction with the University of Nevada, Reno Cooperative Extension. There is no charge, but participation is limited to only 30 people, who will be selected based on their expressed interest in local government and leadership. Participants must be able to set aside one workday each month to attend the program and agree to participate in a class project. Full participation is expected. Applicants must be Washoe County residents over the age of 18. The deadline to apply is July 14.
One day per month, participants will be exposed to various aspects of Washoe County services, from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office to the Library system. Learn how community partners are working to preserve Lake Tahoe, what makes rural Washoe County so special with a visit to Gerlach and the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Museum, and who Eilley Bowers really was by visiting her historic mansion. This program pulls back the curtain to local government innerworkings and offers insight into how you may become more involved in county government.
“My favorite part is my newfound sense of pride in where I live, in being an advocate in the community,” Amanda Harper, a graduate of the 2023 inaugural academy class, said. “Every day, every activity was something great. I got something from every session.”
Each class will also complete a community project, putting their newfound skills to work and to better the county, all while building their personal and professional network.
The program launches August 18, 2023, and will continue through April 19, 2024, culminating with a graduation ceremony attended by Washoe County leadership. View each day’s agenda and apply here.
