The History of Leadership Stark County

Leadership Stark County offers educational programs that prepare participants for the complex challenges facing the community in the decades ahead. The organization strives to be representative of the professional, cultural, racial, economic, geographic and ethnic diversity of the community, and continues to inform, educate and sensitize its participants to the key issues facing the area.

What began as a vision and dream of several community and business leaders in 1985 and one program, now boasts five separate programs of community education and involvement. In 2022, we will begin recruiting for our 36th Class of the Signature Program, Leadership Stark County enters its 36th year dedicated to providing the community with quality individuals who are committed to working for the common good of the area.

Volunteers from various fields including community organizations, communications, government and politics, human relations, economic development, local history and public policy serve as program planners and facilitators for the programs offered.

The educational experiences provided by Leadership Stark County are just the beginning. Graduates and participants, as leaders, remain active in community service and are encouraged to continue involvement in Leadership Stark County activities. Program graduates are well-prepared to accept key positions at their place of employment and on community boards, becoming more involved in the decision-making process that will shape the Stark County area.