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Leadership Pender

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders for Pender County

about

about the program

The Leadership Pender program, proudly sponsored by the Burgaw Area Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, is designed to cultivate and connect emerging and established leaders across Pender County. Through a dynamic, hands-on curriculum, participants will explore the challenges, strengths, and opportunities facing our region today — preparing them to make meaningful, lasting contributions to our communities.

Leadership Pender develops civic-minded professionals with a shared vision for progress and collaboration. If you’re passionate about Pender County’s future, this is your opportunity to lead it.

Discover

program goals

  1. Provide business and community professionals the tools and knowledge to assume leadership roles.

  2. Build a strong network of individuals dedicated to positive change.

  3. Educate participants about Pender County’s key sectors — from education to healthcare, and history to local government.

  4. Encourage collaboration between emerging leaders and current community influencers.

components

program components

Participants will:

  • Attend a mandatory Orientation Retreat and Mixer on August 19, 2026.

  • Engage in eight immersive learning sessions from September 2026 to April 2027, held every second Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (*except as noted).

  • Topics include:

    • Education – September 9, 2026

    • Workforce Development – October 14, 2026

    • History & Culture – November 18, 2026*

    • Non-Profit Impact – December 9, 2026

    • Healthcare – January 13, 2027

    • Public Safety – February 10, 2027

    • Environmental Issues – March 10, 2027

    • Local Government – April 19, 2027* (Tenative)

  • Complete 10 hours of volunteer service at a local non-profit (not affiliated with the participant).

  • Attend at least one Chamber Networking After Hours event.

  • Participate in Graduation & Next Steps on May 12, 2027.

Selection

eligibility & selection

Leadership Pender seeks applicants who:

  • Exhibit leadership potential, civic engagement, and a commitment to Pender County.

  • Represent diverse professions, backgrounds, and perspectives.

  • Can commit to attending at least 7 of the 8 sessions, enrichment activities, and volunteer service.

 

Class size is limited to 10–30 participants. Selection is competitive and based on community involvement, leadership experience, and application responses.

tuition

tuition & financial assistance

  • $400 for Chamber members

  • $500 for non-members
    Fee includes all program materials, lunches, and graduation expenses.

Limited scholarships are available based on financial need. To apply for assistance, indicate interest on your application and include a financial need statement.

Deadline to apply and submit payment: June 11, 2026
Checks payable to Leadership Pender and can be mailed or dropped off at:

c/o Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism
P.O. Box 2486
Surf City, NC 28445

2026-2027

APPLY NOW

Be part of shaping the future of Pender County. Download the application below and return it completed by Monday, June 11, 2026.

Download Application