INDIVIDUAL
LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS
As Montgomery County faces an exciting and changing future, it is essential that leaders across all sectors are equipped to guide their communities through transition. Our suite of individual leadership programs is designed to meet leaders where they are in their careers—whether they are just beginning to explore community leadership, advancing into more strategic roles, or stepping into executive positions.
These programs will provide the resources and connections necessary for impactful leadership. Whether you are a community member, an early-career professional, or a seasoned executive, our programs provide the tools, networks, and insights needed to lead with integrity, inclusivity, and impact.
Each program offers its own unique growth opportunities, from foundational leadership skills to strategic decision-making and systems change.
CORE
(Connecting our Region's Execs)
The pinnacle of leadership development, CORE is designed for seasoned executives across all sectors. This competitive program features high-level conversations and enriching interactions with the county’s top decision-makers and changemakers.
EMERGING LEADERS
Emerging Leaders is an inspiring cohort program designed for professionals eager to enhance their leadership skills, broaden their knowledge of Montgomery County, and expand their professional networks.
ELEVATE
Step boldly into senior leadership with Elevate—a program tailored for recently promoted executives and first-time senior leaders designed to expand strategic capacity, deepen community engagement, and amplify influence.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LM
Leadership Montgomery connects and prepares leaders to build thriving and inclusive workplaces and communities.
MORE INFORMATION
Application Fees and Tuition
Leadership program application information
LM may be able to provide tuition assistance. Please contact our office for more information.
Application fee:
First-time applicants: $75
Previous applicants: $25
Program Tuition:
$3,200
Application fee:
First-time applicants: $125
Program Tuition:
$4,000
Application fee:
First-time applicants: $200
Previous applicants: $75
Program Tuition:
$6,500
Session Dates– Individual Cohort Programs
EMERGING LEADERS
2025-2026 Session Dates
Thurs, Sept. 25
Thurs, Oct. 23
Wed, Nov. 19 (joint session)
Thur, Dec. 11 (Evening Mentor Mixer)
Thurs, Jan. 22, 2026
Thurs, Mar. 19, 2026
Thurs, Apr. 16, 2026
Thurs., May 7, 2026
ELEVATE
2025-2026 Session Dates
Tues, Sept. 16
Tues, Oct. 21
Wed, Nov. 19 (joint session)
Tues, Dec. 16
Tues, Jan. 20, 2026
Tues, Feb. 17, 2026
Tues, Mar. 17, 2026
Tues, Apr. 21, 2026
Tues, May 19, 2026
CORE
2025-2026 Session Dates
Thurs- Fri, Sept. 11- 12 (overnight retreat)
Wed, Oct. 22
Wed, Nov. 19 (joint session)
Wed, Dec. 10
Wed, Jan. 14, 2026
Wed, Feb. 11, 2026
Wed, Mar. 11, 2026
Wed, Apr. 22, 2026
Thurs-Fri, May 14-15*, 2026
*Mandatory Overnight Retreat
Refer a Friend
Think someone would be great for the program? Submit their information here.
Notable Alumni
- Marcus Jones, Chief, Montgomery County Department of Police
- Dr. DeRionne Pollard, Former President, Montgomery College
- Georgette “Gigi” Godwin, President & CEO, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
- Corey Smedley, Chief, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services
- Bruce Lee, President, LDG, Inc.
- Jane Fairweather, President, Jane Fairweather Team, Long & Foster Real Estate
- Eddie Snyder, Chairman, Snyder Cohn, P.C.
- Josh Starr, Former Superintendent, Montgomery County Public Schools; CEO, PDK International
- Angela Franco, President & CEO, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
- Tom Murphy, Former President, EagleBank
- Dr. Jermaine Williams, President, Montgomery College
- Anne Khademian, Executive Director, The Universities at Shady Grove
- Rob Green, Secretary of Public Safety & Correctional Services, State of Maryland
- Avi Halpert, Vice President, Corporate Real Estate, United Therapeutics Corporation
- Father John Enzler, President & CEO, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington
- Jim Sweet, President, Smokey Glen Farm Barbequers, Inc.
- Lee Barnes, CEO, Barwood Taxi
- Hercules “Herc” Pinkney, President Emeritus, Montgomery College
- Christopher Bruch, President & CEO, Donohoe Companies
- Bobbi Shulman, Artist
- Rose Li, President & CEO, Rose Li and Associates, Inc.
- Current County Council: Marilyn Balcombe, Natali Fani-Gonzalaz, Evan Glass, Andrew Friedson, Kate Stewart, Laurie-Anne Sayles,
- Current Maryland Senate: Cheryl Kagan, Will Smith Jr.
- Current Maryland State Delegates: Charlotte Crutchfield, David Fraser-Hidalgo, Anne Kaiser, Aaron Kaufman, Ariana Kelly, Marc Korman, Lily Qi, Jheanelle Wilkins,
- Current Board of Education: Shebra Evans, Grace Rivera-Oven, Karla Silvistre, Rebecca Smondrowski, Brenda Wolff, Julie Yang
- Other Current Elected Officials: David Myles ; Councilmember, City of Rockville, Jeffrey Slavin; Mayor, Town of Somerset, Neil Harris, Yamil Hernández, and Robert T. Wu Council Vice President, City of Gaithersburg
FAQ
What is Leadership Montgomery (LM)?
Leadership Montgomery (LM) is an award-winning organization that supports public, private, and nonprofit leaders in Montgomery County, MD, and beyond. Connecting the community for over thirty years, LM is committed to unlocking the potential of cross-sector leaders in understanding and addressing complex issues in our region. Through curriculum-based leadership programs, meaningful alumni engagement, and impactful corporate activation, LM mobilizes leaders to build thriving and inclusive workplaces and communities.
Why would I want to participate in an LM program?
By participating in one of our programs, you will join a network of passionate leaders who contribute considerable time, talent and energy to the betterment of our community. In addition, you will become more aware of the social and economic issues in Montgomery County, and develop a greater appreciation for all the county has to offer.
Who is qualified to participate in LM Programming?
Our programs are specifically geared toward connecting and preparing leaders to build thriving and inclusive workplaces and communities. We welcome anyone who has the desire to see our county succeed.
In order to participate in one of our leadership programs, all applicants must:
- Be willing to commit the required time to the program.
- Have the support and expressed permission of their sponsoring organization.
- Demonstrate a commitment to strengthening our community.
Additional prerequisites are required, depending on the program. For more information, please visit a specific program’s page.
- Be willing to commit the required time to the program.
What happens once a program has been completed?
Once an LM program is complete, participants utilize their LM experience to build a more vital county and have served on over one thousand boards, committees, and commissions across the county and region. Additionally, alumni have the option to continue engagement to continue receiving offerings, training, convenings, and resources to support their leadership goals. They can also take advantage of another LM program and encourage their networks to become involved through one of our programs.
How do I remain involved once my program is complete?
Alumni can remain involved through alumni engagement opportunities exclusively available to them. LM provides various engagement perks designed to support leaders on their journey. From connection opportunities like the Alumni Directory to convening opportunities like Homecoming and Leadership Solves events to community engagement opportunities like mentorship and board service, Alumni have access to the critical resources needed for maximum leadership impact.
How is LM funded
Leadership Montgomery is funded through tuition, membership dues, event registrations, and contributions. The leadership programs’ tuition covers less than half of the operating budget and we remain grateful to the individuals, businesses, and organizations that provide financial and in-kind support.
How can I get involved with Leadership Montgomery
Leadership Montgomery offers a variety of ways to get involved:
- Apply for a leadership program
- Attend an event
- Take or organize a training
- Become an engaged alum
- Host a program session day or education event
- Encourage your company to participate in corporate engagement opportunities
- Support our work through a donation or sponsorship
- Apply for a leadership program
How does Leadership Montgomery work with other community leadership groups in the region and throughout the U.S.?
Leadership Montgomery maintains a collaborative relationship with area community leadership programs and is a member of the Association of Leadership Programs.