Leadership Charlotte Class of 2026

Apply for Leadership Charlotte – Class of 2026

Do you want to make a lasting impact in Charlotte County?
Join a powerful network of civic, business, and nonprofit leaders who are committed to building a stronger community.

The Leadership Charlotte Program, presented by the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, is now accepting applications for the Class of 2026.

This year-long program offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of Charlotte County through hands-on learning, immersive experiences, and direct access to decision-makers across sectors such as government, healthcare, education, social services, economic development, and more.

How to Apply

Download the application using the link below.
Submit your completed application by email to:
askus@charlottecountychamber.org
or drop it off at:
Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce
2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL 33952

Note: Applicants must be able to commit to the full schedule listed below. Space is limited, and candidates will be notified of acceptance after all applications are reviewed.

2026 Leadership Class Application

2026 Program Schedule

Orientation & Kickoff Events:

Thursday, September 11, 2025
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Reception & Orientation
Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center

Thursday, October 23, 2025
5:30 PM
Leadership & Class Ice Breaker
Florida SouthWestern State College (Building O)

Friday, October 24, 2025
All Day
Simulated Society (SIM-SOC)
Florida SouthWestern State College (Building O)

Monthly Program Days (Full Day Sessions):

Thursday, November 13, 2025 – Community Services Day
Thursday, December 11, 2025 – Arts & Humanities Day
Thursday, January 8, 2026 – Health Care Day
Friday, February 6, 2026 – Education Day
Thursday, March 5, 2026 – Government Day
Thursday, April 2, 2026 – Justice Day
Thursday, April 23, 2026 – Environmental & Agricultural Day
Thursday, May 7, 2026 – Media & Communication Day
Thursday, May 28, 2026 – Local Economy Day
Thursday, June 18, 2026 – Tourism Day

Graduation Celebration:

Friday, June 26, 2026
Evening Event
Graduation Ceremony(Details to be announced)

Download 2026 Program Schedule

Class of 2025 Members:
Sam Alexander, Encompass Health
Alex Andreae, Re/Max Harbor Realty
Rudy Askew, Retired
Ben Bailey, Charlotte County
Tabbatha Carter, Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office
Tracy Doherty, Charlotte County
Jordan Flick, The Flick Framework
Daniella Gallagher, Good Stuff Marketing
Deanna Heminger, Suncoast One Title & Closings
Crystal Henderson, Charlotte County Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller
Cynthia King, Drug Free Charlotte County
Holli Livingston, Crews Bank & Trust
Kathy Quick
Jessica Reynolds, Charlotte County
Drew Rossi, Protean Design Group
Hallie Rubins, Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity
Claudette Smith, Charlotte County Public Schools
Kellie Stewart, Charlotte County Administration Office
Kristen Szych, United Way of Charlotte County
Kerri Tulett, Gladrich Florist Shoppe
Jenny Underhill, Funky Palm Productions
Odalys Valdes, City of Punta Gorda
Barbara Wastart, Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic
Joy Williams, Suncoast Biplanes

The Leadership Charlotte program brings together 25 individuals who are looking to increase their leadership skills and gain a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges in our community.

Participants in Leadership Charlotte commit to attend monthly day-long classes, as well as participate in whatever class project they select. Alumni include bankers, clergy, lawyers, paralegals, accountants, small business owners, educators, realtor, artists, sales managers...the list goes on and on.

If you are interested in applying for the next class, applications are available in June. There are attendance requirements and if accepted one must be a member of the Charlotte County Chamber, and there is a fee for tuition.

To learn more contact Bob White bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222.

A program of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce