Leadership Greer was established in 1978 by the Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce for the purpose of providing the area’s unequaled leadership and professional development program enriching the lives of participants and cultivating future leaders for the community.
What is Leadership Greer?
Leadership Greer is a nine-month program that provides qualified individuals with the opportunity to engage in community advocacy, business development, and valuable networking. The program begins in September with an orientation and overnight retreat and concludes with graduation in May. Throughout the course, participants will engage in monthly sessions covering key topics such as the History of Greer, Public Safety, Human Services, Local Government, Economic Development, Education, Quality of Life, Media, and State Government.
Objectives
Identify and select highly motivated leaders and potential leaders
Examine and challenge participants to respond to the needs of the community and the dynamics of social and economic change
Develop a sense of bonding and cooperating between the participants
Provide leadership training and development
Tuition & Application
Applications must be submitted to the Greer Chamber of Commerce, along with a $120 application fee, no later than May 31st, 2025. The selection process will be completed by June 30th, and accepted applicants will be notified and billed for the remaining balance at that time.
Please note: The Leadership Greer class size is limited. Participants are selected by the Leadership Development Council based on the application and points structure.
The program starts in September. Payments Due Prior to Orientation. Early Bird Application for Members Only: Now-March 31st Regular Pricing and deadline: April 1st-May 31st Acceptance notifications and confirmations: Before June 30
Early Bird (Members Only) - $1750 Member cost - $2000.00 Non-Member cost - $2400.00
Leadership Session Dates Class 46
Friday, September 5, 2025 - Orientation Thursday-Friday, September 18-19, 2025 - Kanuga-Over Night Retreat *Mandatory Tuesday, October 7, 2025 Tuesday, November 4, 2025 Tuesday, December 2, 2025 Tuesday, January 13, 2026 Tuesday, February 10, 2026 Tuesday, March 3, 2026 Tuesday, April 7, 2026 Tuesday, May 5, 2026 May 12, 2026 - Evening Graduation
Program Fee Acknowledgement and Agreement
I agree to fully participate in all activities associated with this program and acknowledge the following expectations for each class participant:
The class orientation, ropes course, and overnight retreat are mandatory.
Participants are required to attend all eight (8) monthly, all-day sessions, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
I understand that no more than two (2) monthly sessions may be missed in order to successfully complete the course and graduate.
Each participant will contribute to the selection and preparation of a class project and will invest an appropriate number of "out-of-class" hours to complete the project.
Each participant will be expected to fulfill certain required "out-of-class" assignments (e.g., police ride-alongs, city council meetings, or volunteer work at a community event).
I acknowledge that my employer will be kept informed of my participation in Leadership Greer.
Leadership Greer has a profound legacy of making in impact in the community. LG classes each year will learn about non-profit organizations and our Greer community needs to determine resources that can be provided by the class. Sessions will allow students to overcome needs by developing a business proposal, establishing project budgets, and executing fundraising goals.
Testimonials
“Leadership Greer is a 9 month “fast track” to learning the ins and outs of Greer. Not only do you develop lifelong relationships, but you learn about the community you live in. This program was so beneficial for me since I had just moved to the Upstate. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to grow their roots and make a difference in Greer.” - Alison Rauch, Public Information Coordinator for Greer Commission of Public Works
"I can’t believe I was in the first Leadership Greer Class: We’re number 1! Participating in Leadership Greer was not only a peek behind the curtain of local government, but it also helped solidify my commitment to public service. Although it was several years before I ran for office, I often think of how influential my experience in Leadership Greer was in shaping my commitment to shaping my commitment to public service and the City of Greer.” - Mayor Rick Danner, City of Greer
"Leadership Greer helped launch my career by deepening my understanding of the community and connecting me with an incredible network of leaders. The relationships I built with my classmates have been invaluable, and I continued learning through the Leadership Development Council (LDC). Through LDC, I’ve fostered connections with past and recent Leadership classes. The program has shaped my professional journey and strengthened my commitment to serving our community." - Carolina Robertson, Greer Relief
“I felt so honored to be a part of Leadership Greer. It taught me so much about myself and how to be a leader. I learned how to work with others and so much about giving back to the community. I experienced so many different aspects of this wonderful city that we are so fortunate to live in.” - Cindy Fowler, CBL State Savings Bank
“The opportunity I had to be part of Leadership Greer was sincerely one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I can point to many experiences where I grew personally and professionally. From the many new friends I made, being involved with the leadership of our class project and gaining more awareness through each session about what makes Greer so attractive to those who live and work there and to companies looking to locate their business there. I would encourage anyone that does business in Greer to consider going through the Leadership program.” - Steve Pardue, Commercial Insurance Advisor for Countybanc Insurance Services Inc.
Any Questions?
For additional information, please contact the Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce. phone: (864) 877-3131
