About Tempe Leadership
Who We Are
Since 1985, the Tempe Leadership Program, in partnership with the Tempe Chamber of Commerce Foundation, has brought like-minded individuals together in the community to engage and challenge one another, learn more about the ins and outs of Tempe and, most importantly, make a real difference in our community. Tempe Leadership alumni are well represented on local boards and commissions, routinely serve elected office, and volunteer time and energy to the community – together creating lasting legacies.
Tempe Leadership strives to:
- Create a Strong, Resilient Web of Community Leaders
- Develop and Mentor Individuals to Fulfill Formal Community Leadership Roles
- Seek Positive Solutions to Real Community Problems
- Strengthen Our Community for Now and in Future Generations
- Support the Development of Youth Leaders
- Involve Others in Our Community in Volunteer, Charitable, and Civic Efforts
- Build an Inclusive, Connected, and Vital Hometown
Our Mission
The mission of Tempe Leadership is to attract, develop, educate, and empower individuals through our adult and youth leadership programs and to make a positive impact in the community through our Tempe Cares and alumni programs.
Our Values:
- Be a good citizen in the community and industry
- Strive continually for innovation, quality, and continuous improvement
- Avoid conflicts of interest
- Be environmentally responsible
- Be economically responsible
Adult Leadership Program
The Tempe Leadership program began in 1983 with a mission to attract, develop, educate, and empower individuals who live and/or work in Tempe through its leadership program. Over the years, more than 800 people have graduated from the program and have gone on to participate in many civic and community programs, including public office, city boards and commissions, and non-profits, as well as volunteering in a multitude of ways.
We are seeking potential leaders who want the opportunity to serve and need to learn about the organizations and leaders to make that service possible.
The program runs from September to May and requires attendance at 18-20 issue days (mostly on Fridays) and developing and implementing a class project that benefits residents or organizations in Tempe. Examples of issue days include learning about public safety, arts and culture, education, business, health and wellness, transportation, human services, and more. Participation in the program is tracked using a point system; points are accrued based on attendance at issue days and additional activities/events. A complete packet with additional details is provided once you have been accepted into the program.