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FOCUS offers a continuum of leadership programs to engage leaders from high school students to senior executives. Program alumni have been inspired to launch new nonprofit agencies, start businesses, and run for political offices. They serve on hundreds of boards and provide thousands of hours of volunteer service. FOCUS alumni are leaders who make a difference.
Click here for the complete list of 2012-13 and 2013-14 program year deadlines for FOCUS leadership programs.
Click each program name to learn more.
Youth Leadership St. Louis (YLSL) Since 1989, YLSL has brought together high school juniors from public, private, and parochial schools for an entire school year. The program allows participants to develop leadership, strength of character, and team-building skills. Teacher-liaisons also have the opportunity to receive specialized training.
Emerging Leaders In 2012, the Emerging Leaders program launched to offer young professionals the chance to develop leadership skills, define their personal brand, determine which causes or issues most energize them, and discover how to leverage their strengths to benefit the community. Click here to see the spring 2013 class roster.
Coro™ Fellows Program in Public Affairs Since 1972, this intense, nine-month, full-time professional development program has combined exposure to nonprofit, government, business, labor, and electoral politics with rigorous, hands-on training. It is an experiential learning program that provides training in critical thinking, communication, and project management. Click here to meet the 2012-13 Fellows.
Coro™ Women In Leadership Since 1981, this five-month, part-time training program has given women the opportunity to refine their leadership competencies, learn about the community, and connect with other women from diverse backgrounds who care about community issues. Click here to see the Class 58 - fall 2012 - roster.
Leadership St. Louis® (LSL) Since 1976, LSL has been considered St. Louis' flagship leadership program. This highly selective program brings together a diverse group of emerging and existing leaders who demonstrate a deep commitment to improving the region. The program runs two days per month for nine months, and employs experiential learning and community immersion. It connects leaders who form life-long relationships and serve as catalysts for a stronger community. Click here to see the 2012-13 class roster.
Experience St. Louis (ESL) Since 1984, FOCUS has partnered with the Regional Chamber and Growth Association to offer this regional orientation program. The program is for executives and their spouses or partners who are new to the community, as well as others recently promoted to senior-level positions who would benefit from a greater knowledge of the region. Meeting five times over a four-week period, ESL participants can quickly establish roots and learn to navigate the community's civic landscape.
Alumni Network FOCUS offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year to help keep program alumni connected with one another and engaged in the decisions that affect the community.