The Pioneer Valley is a vibrant area that faces a brain-drain of talented professionals regularly leaving. As a result, we have a shortage of emerging and mid-career leaders that can take up leadership as baby-boomers retire. We also are fragmented racially, by sector, and geographically. LPV breaks down those barriers by bringing together diverse existing and emerging leaders from all employment sectors and all three counties for a 10-month leadership development program.

"The LPV program has enabled me to immediately connect with an extremely talented group of aspiring leaders and reconnect myself to the region as a whole."- Adam Robinson, Ostberg & Assoc.

The Program

The ten-month leadership development program immerses participants in an inspiring and enlightening curriculum that examines critical issues that impact the region’s numerous and diverse areas. During the program, participants expand their leadership skills while gaining connections, greater commitment to community stewardship, and cultural competency.

Leadership Pioneer Valley is topically-relevant and ever- changing, exposing participants to many community- minded perspectives, resources and mentors through an open and transformative forum.

"This program has challenged me, reminded me, taught me, and inspired me to be a better leader and humbled me at times. I will finish this program a more complete leader and better person." - Tony Maroulis, Amherst Chamber of Commerce

Each year, Leadership Pioneer Valley selects 40-50 emerging and existing leaders from the private, public, and non-profit sectors of the region who have applied to participate. Diversity is a key goal of LPV. Factors used in determining the final make-up of the class include geography, employment sector, race, gender, and sexual orientation.

"The tools and insights I've learned from LPV have been incredibly valuable to my personal and professional life. LPV provided me a unique opportunity to reflect and focus on personal values influencing my leadership style and ability."- Kelvin Molina, HAP Housing