FAQs

How much time is involved for participants?

Program participants agree to attend an orientation and eight required program sessions. An orientation session in April kicks off the program, and sessions are held once a month over three consecutive days from April through November.

What costs are involved?

Tuition of $3,000 per participant is charged to partially cover program costs and meals associated with the sessions. Participants will be responsible for their own transportation and lodging expenses. Financial assistance is available, up to $1,500 per person, for those selected to the program who request financial assistance.

When is the application deadline?

The application deadline is January 31.

How will I, or my employer, benefit from participating in the program?

Upon completion of the Leadership Kansas program, employees are prepared to shoulder more responsibilities armed with resources from a vast network of business and public sector contacts across the state and with a keen understanding of key issues affecting the state from border to border.

Who is eligible to participate?

Any person who either works or lives in Kansas that has shown dedication to his or her community and state is eligible to apply. There are no minimum or maximum age restrictions.

Is travel required?

Yes. Each month, the class travels to a different location for programming. It is essential that the class is exposed to the different geographic regions of our state as they provide the appropriate backdrop for discussion of the program topics and issues. The cost of travel is not included in the tuition fee and is the responsibility of each class member. Group rates at a designated hotel will be provided but class members are not required to stay at the hotel for the eight regular sessions.

How do I get nominated for Leadership Kansas?

Nomination forms are sent to local and statewide groups, associations, Chamber members, elected officials, and individuals. Persons not receiving nomination information are encouraged to submit nominations online. Nominations will be accepted until December 31 for the following program year. All nominated persons will receive information on the program including dates, cost, and the application process.

How does the selection process work?

Once nominations have been received, we invite nominees to apply for the upcoming Leadership Kansas class. Applicants should demonstrate an increasing level of responsibility, potential for continual leadership in Kansas, and evidence of professional and personal improvement since completing their formal education. Work experience, scope of personal interests, level of community involvement, and recognition of leadership abilities through receipt of honors/awards may also have a significant impact in the selection process. A total of 40 participants will be selected for the program. An independent committee will make the selections in March. The selection process is designed to provide a class that is representative of the diverse elements of our state. All applicants not selected for this year’s program may apply for a future Leadership Kansas program year.

What is the history of the program?

Started in 1979, Leadership Kansas is the second oldest statewide leadership program in the country. The program was established to identify a group of diverse, established leaders from across the state and develop programming that introduces the participants to the most important topics/issues in Kansas.