Leadership Northwest Missouri continues to offer opportunities to lead, connect and grow within the Northwest Missouri region. They are looking for the right men and women to fill its 2026 class, promising those who join an experience they’ll never forget. Eight days over a seven-month period is the commitment, but the results are worth so much more. The deadline to apply is November 1, 2025.

Often, seminars offer tips on leadership and networking, but Leadership Northwest Missouri is different. This program provides a localized experience, offering leadership training, education on hot topics in the region, and access to a well-connected network of contacts. Here is what some of the 202 class participants have to say about their experience:

“Leadership Northwest was a life-changing experience for me! The program challenged me to expand my thinking and blessed me with amazing friendships and an incredible network of like-minded leaders looking to make a difference.” Shelbie Alexander, Linn County

“Leadership Northwest Missouri is an outstanding program for individuals seeking to develop leadership skills while giving back to their communities in meaningful ways.  As a participant, I got to experience the diverse communities and economies that drive Northwest Missouri, and it has given me valuable insight and practical tools to improve my local area.  Honestly, one of the biggest benefits is the relationships built during the course, and I know those will last long after the program ends.” Mike Hill, DeKalb County

The 2026 class will begin with a two-day retreat at Conception Abbey, January 21 and 22, led by Tim Crowley, Ph.D., a national speaker on personal and professional development. Day-long monthly classes will follow in various communities throughout our 19-county region, (Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, Caldwell, Carroll, Clay, Clinton, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Holt, Linn, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Sullivan and Worth), with the class graduation scheduled for July 16, 2026.

Class participants will come away with a new outlook on the workplace, enhanced leadership skills, hands-on team building exercises, communication and motivational skills, and so much more. To create an effective experience, Leadership Northwest Missouri will limit the number of class participants. Contact Kendra Pickering if you have questions, leadershipnorthwestmissouri@gmail.com. An application is available to download at:  https://leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org/program-information