Douglas County Economic Development (DCEDC) is hosting YEAR 1 of a leadership training class to develop important skills in the future leaders of the county and region. In a world that is still emerging from the Covid pandemic where many have been working from home, we're excited to bring people back together with an in-person class where participants can network, learn important skills, and share ideas.
DCEDC felt the time was right for this type of leadership training as young people are struggling to find their place in our rural communities, business owners are looking for their next management level executives, and seasoned professionals are seeking opportunities for continued growth. This class is for everyone who wants to develop their skills, foster new relationships, and become the leaders our communities need.
Some skills we will be working on include
- Networking
- Building a Stronger Team
- Time Management and Strategies to Diminish Anxiety
- Building Alliances: Working Effectively with other Thinking Styles
- Effectively Communicating with all Generations
- Developing Desired Futures
- Fostering ownership and Building Successful Action Plans
- Collaborative Problem Solving
- Change Management Strategies
- Innovative Mindset
- Goal Setting and Professional Balance
- Change Manage and Measuring Success
- Leaning in to Servant Leadership
This class is open to all individuals and one does not need to live or work in Douglas County, Illinois to participate.
All classes will be held at 900 Progress Blvd., Tuscola, IL 61953.
The class curriculum and dates are as follows:
| Kick-off Mixer | TBD | 12:00-2:00pm |
| Understanding Yourself | Tuesday, September 29, 2026 | 8:30am-4:00pm |
| Understanding Others | Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 8:30am-4:00pm |
| Understanding Your Community | Tuesday, November 24, 2026 | 8:30am-4:00pm |
| Collaborative Problem Solving | Tuesday, January 26, 2027 | 8:30am-4:00pm |
| Planning for the Future | Tuesday, February 23, 2027 | 8:30am-4:00pm |
| Success in Action | Tuesday, March 23, 2027 | 8:30am-4:00pm |
| Snow Day if needed/Graduation Event | Tuesday, April TBD | 8:30am-4:00pm |
Cost for the class is $1395 per student and includes lunch each day of training, class materials and books.
CLICK HERE To apply online or download and print an application HERE.
*Deadline to Apply is September 1, 2026
For more questions call Stepheny McMahon at 217-253-2112 x134 or email at [email protected]
LEADERUP DOUGLAS INFORMATIONAL FLYER (will be updated soon)
LEADERUP DOUGLAS - DAU CONSULTING BIO
LEADERUP DOUGLAS - BENEFITS OF CLASS FOR INDIVIDUALS AND EMPLOYEES
LEADERUP DOUGLAS - APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP
Want to support a future leader in your community or support the program through a sponsorship? Sponsorship opportunities are outlined in the flyer below and we are welcome to suggestions if you have your own ideas.
LEADERUP DOUGLAS - SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES