Leadership Thomas

Leadership Thomas, run by the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce since 1981, fosters a network of leaders dedicated to community improvement through various leadership programs supported by graduates and local businesses. The goal is to identify, develop, and educate a diverse and inclusive group of leaders to drive economic prosperity in the Thomasville-Thomas County community.

Photo from a Leadership Thomas Event

Benefits

Participants in the program will have the opportunity to engage with leaders from diverse sectors of our community, including business, government, and non-profit organizations. They will learn from individuals with different perspectives, fostering strong professional relationships. Through discussions and examination of major business, government, and social issues, participants will gain awareness of community challenges and opportunities. Moreover, they will have the chance to enhance their understanding of personal leadership styles, facilitating growth into higher-level roles both in the workplace and within the community. Additionally, active participation in the program will enable participants to deepen their company's profile with community, business, and government leaders, demonstrating a commitment to community success and increasing visibility.

Curriculum

The program starts with June orientation, followed by an August weekend retreat, and consists of 9 monthly sessions from September to May, concluding with a closing graduation in June. Sessions cover various leadership topics such as economic development, government, the arts, healthcare, human services, justice, law enforcement, and the environment through activities and hands-on experiences.

Requirements

Participants in the Leadership Thomas program must meet certain requirements, including mandatory attendance at the opening retreat and closing graduation. Additionally, they must attend monthly daylong sessions and participate in activities such as attending a school board meeting, city council, or county commission meeting, as well as engaging in a class project. It is expected that participants demonstrate full support from their sponsoring organization or business and maintain a personal commitment to both Thomasville-Thomas County and to Leadership Thomas beyond graduation.

Leadership Thomas Photo of Volunteers

Ready to Apply?

Leadership Thomas seeks candidates who exhibit leadership qualities demonstrated through career accomplishments or involvement in community activities. It values candidates who represent diverse backgrounds from businesses, government, and non-profit sectors within Thomasville-Thomas County. Candidates should reside and/or work within the community. They should demonstrate an ability to identify and analyze challenges from multiple perspectives, offering innovative solutions. Furthermore, candidates are expected to contribute by sharing their personal and professional expertise. Finally, Leadership Thomas values individuals who prioritize continuous learning and are committed to their personal and professional development.

APPLY HERE

Online Applications Open & Close

Monday, March 2nd, 2026 – 5:00 PM, Thursday, April 30th, 2026

Acceptance Notification

June 2026

Meet & Greet plus Tuition Due

Thursday, July 23rd, 2026 from 5-7 PM

Opening Retreat

Friday, August 21st, 2026 – Sunday, August 23rd, 2026

Graduation

Thursday, June 10th, 2027 from 5-7 PM

Session Dates
(Must attend 7 out of 9)

- Thursday, September 10, 2026
- Thursday, October 8, 2026
- Thursday, November 12, 2026
- Thursday, December 10, 2026
- Thursday, January 14, 2027
- Thursday, February 11, 2027
- Thursday, March 11, 2027
- Thursday, April 15, 2027
- Thursday, May 13, 2027

The tuition fee for Leadership Thomas is $1,500 for members and $2,000 for non-members, payable by check or credit card. Tuition payment plans are also available for convenience. Additionally, partial scholarships are available based on financial need, and interested applicants can submit requests along with their Leadership Thomas class application.