Apply

We will begin accepting applications for the LEAP Class of 2021 in April of 2020.   Candidates will not be considered unless a complete application packet with the required signatures is received by July 1st.

We invite you to join us in developing our region's next generation of leadership. If you'd like to learn more about how we can support  you or your organization through the Valley's premier leadership development program, please get in touch. We'd love to discuss how we can grow your success and strengthen your connection to leaders throughout the Pioneer Valley.

We invite you to:

• Connect with an LPV Alumni Ambassador for an informal conversation to hear about their experience in our program ( view our full alumni roster)
• Schedule a briefing  at your workplace for those supporting talent development within your organization
• Contact LPV staff to pursue these opportunities  or to learn more from us!

Selection Process and Criteria

Each class of LEAP  is selected through a competitive process conducted by members of the Enrollment Committee. In any given year, there are more applicants than positions available. Interviews may be offered on a case-by-case basis. Approximately 30-40 individuals will be selected based on criteria including: commitment to civic involvement in the Pioneer Valley region, potential for community leadership, and professional as well as personal achievement. Diversity is a key goal of Leadership Pioneer Valley. Factors used in determining the final make-up of the class include age, geographic location, employment sector, race, sexual orientation, and gender.

Tuition

We offer a flat-rate for tuition and we want to ensure that all who need tuition assistance receive it.  Tuition for each participant in the LEAP program is $3,500, which includes a suggested personal tuition of $300.  Tuition covers all class year expenses, including: an overnight retreat, meals, transportation, training and materials, trainers, commencement ceremony, and graduation reception.  We are able to augment tuition through other generous funding sources.  Tuition assistance is available for organizations that are non-profits, public sector, and small businesses and individuals who are self-employed, unemployed, and who would otherwise be unable to participate.  Additionally, flexible payment plans are available upon request for both employers and applicants.

• Scholarships are also available for the personal tuition, including YPS and NAYP Scholarships.
• Graduates of the Women's Fund's LIPPI Program receive 20% off tuition!
• Tuition payment is required before the start of the program unless prearranged with the Director.
• Early application discounts are available for organizations and individuals until June 1. See details.

Tuition Assistance & Scholarships

Leadership Pioneer Valley is pleased to offer financial assistance towards tuition for both employer or personal tuition. Those requesting assistance must complete the Tuition Assistance Request Form, and return it with their application to the program. Applications for assistance are confidential and have no bearing on the Enrollment Committee’s decisions.  We are pleased to also offer two additional scholarships outlined below.

• Tell-a-Friend-  Referred by a LPV alumni?  Apply by June 1st and receive $100 off your personal tuition.
• Multi-Applicant Discount- Any organization with 3 or more applications submitted by June 1st, will receive 1/2 off one tuition.
• Chamber Discount- If you are a member of a Valley chamber of commerce and have never participated in LEAP before, receive 10% off tuition if you are one of the first 10 to apply.
• Young Professionals Scholarships  The Young Professional Society of Springfield and The Northampton Area Young Professionals are each offering one personal tuition scholarship of $300 each year for current members. To apply, please fill out the Tuition Assistance Request Form listed above.
• Workforce Express Grant: For employers of less than 100 employees, you may be eligible for an express grant which will reimburse 50% of tuition.

Inclusiveness

It is the policy of Leadership Pioneer Valley to recruit widely, without bias and from a variety of communities. Our goal is to select a class reflecting the rich diversity of the Pioneer Valley. All applications will be handled in the strictest confidence. Leadership Pioneer Valley maintains a policy of non-discrimination and is fully committed to these principals and opportunity for all. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, active military status, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.

Application Deadline

All applications must be received by 5:00 p.m., July 1st.  For further information, contact Lora Wondolowski, Executive Director at 413.737.3876 or [email protected].

To apply, follow these steps:

We recommend that you collect, organize and write all the information requested in advance. See linked word documents below. You will NOT have an opportunity to save a partially completed application. You can submit all forms electronically or via e-mail or mail. 

• Fill out the Participant Application Form and submit electronically along with a $25 application fee.
• Your *employer must complete the Employer/Sponsor Application and submit it,  or a recommending colleague must fill out the Recommendation Form (if not sponsored by an employer or self-employed)

Alternatively, you may complete, print and send the Participant Application and/or Employer/Sponsor Application (or non-employer recommendation form) to:

Leadership Pioneer Valley, 1 Federal St, Bldg. 101, Springfield, MA 01105 or [email protected]

(*Not required if self-employed or unemployed.)