Leadership Rutherford
take the bold step of investing in yourself.
Under the direction of the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Rutherford began its first program in 1985. Operating as a 501(c)(3), the program is designed to sustain and supplement the high quality of local leadership which continues to be the key ingredient in making Rutherford County, Tennessee the outstanding community that it is today.
Over 2,000 professionals have graduated from Leadership Rutherford - providing a wide network for alumni to expand their personal network.
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- New class socials beginning July through August
- September class reception and overnight class retreat - Community impact projects - Individual projects - Nine program days, typically the first Wednesday of each month - June class graduation |
All participants are required to complete 20 hours of volunteer service. Ten hours may be completed individually, and ten hours will be completed with your assigned small group.
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During the class year, members select and participate in individual activities provided from a comprehensive list. (e.g. attend a county commission meeting, police ride along)
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Program participants are connected to the many facets of living and working in Rutherford County such as arts and culture, local government, non-profits and businesses that are making a difference in the community.
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With informative presentations and social events, Leadership Rutherford alumni have multiple opportunities each year to stay engaged with classmates and the community.
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"LEADERS AREN'T BORN, THEY ARE MADE." -Vince Lombardi
HOW DO I APPLY?
Applications for the 2026/2027 Class are available on our website and will be accepted through May 22nd. Learn more.
WHAT IS MY COMMITMENT?
During the class year, you are expected to attend an LR new class social, reception, retreat, all program days and graduation ceremony. In addition, each class member must complete and participate in both the individual and community impact projects. After graduation, three class members will serve on the LR Council for a three-year term. Class members are expected to plan the program days for the following year's class.
HOW IS THE CLASS SELECTED?
LR participants are selected on their own merits through an application process conducted by the program's Selection Committee. Class members should reflect the diversity of our community. No applicant is automatically accepted into the program, and all applicants are subject to the same review process. Each class is comprised of approximately 40 members.
WHAT ARE PROGRAM DAYS LIKE?
Each day typically begins at 7:30 a.m. and ends around 5 p.m. Participants will ride a charter bus to and from each location throughout the county.
WHAT ARE THE COSTS INVOLVED?
Tuition is $1,750 per person and covers meals, transportation and program materials. Please note that tuition is nonrefundable.
Applications for the 2026/2027 Class are available on our website and will be accepted through May 22nd. Learn more.
WHAT IS MY COMMITMENT?
During the class year, you are expected to attend an LR new class social, reception, retreat, all program days and graduation ceremony. In addition, each class member must complete and participate in both the individual and community impact projects. After graduation, three class members will serve on the LR Council for a three-year term. Class members are expected to plan the program days for the following year's class.
HOW IS THE CLASS SELECTED?
LR participants are selected on their own merits through an application process conducted by the program's Selection Committee. Class members should reflect the diversity of our community. No applicant is automatically accepted into the program, and all applicants are subject to the same review process. Each class is comprised of approximately 40 members.
WHAT ARE PROGRAM DAYS LIKE?
Each day typically begins at 7:30 a.m. and ends around 5 p.m. Participants will ride a charter bus to and from each location throughout the county.
WHAT ARE THE COSTS INVOLVED?
Tuition is $1,750 per person and covers meals, transportation and program materials. Please note that tuition is nonrefundable.
