Greater Tucson Leadership exists to inform, educate and sensitize existing and emerging leaders to key issues affecting Greater Tucson and to encourage public dialogue and involvement within the community.
GTL Adult Leadership Class visiting
Governor Brewer on GTL Legislature Day.
The vision of Greater Tucson Leadership is a community of leaders working together to enhance Greater Tucson's quality of life. Each year Greater Tucson Leadership strives to achieve these three major objectives
- To become our community's recognized leader in leadership development.
- To help facilitate the development of a community shared vision
- To develop a financial base that supports the efforts of GTL
Leadership is an asset to the individual, to the community and to business. Greater Tucson Leadership promotes a synergistic relationship between individuals, community, and enterprise by:
- Providing a timely base of information and perspective relating to community and concerns and creating access to those who can affect change;
- Increasing awareness of the relationship between government, neighborhoods and organizations in order to clarify available options and make informed decisions; and
- Positioning individuals, business and other organizations to take leadership positions in the overall care and commitment to our community.
The Leadership Education Program is held in the Spring and the Fall each year. Classes are held twice a month for five months every other Friday. Classes in the Spring run January through May, and in the Fall August through December. Each program begins with an overnight retreat. Locations for class meetings vary based upon the topic for the day. Each class contains approximately 35 students.
The faculty is drawn from recognized Tucson leaders and the program is presented with a nonpartisan and impartial approach to critical community issues. Students will also study material from the "Leadership Challenge" written by James Kouzes and Barry Posner. This book and workbook is considered one of the most comprehensible field guides to leadership in the industry. It is a Businessweek Best Seller and used in leadership programs and graduate schools across the country.
Written applications are accepted two months prior to the beginning of a program. Letters of Recommendation and leadership essays are required as part of the application process. Candidates are encouraged to attend a GTL program reception to meet alumni and learn more about the program. Finalists will be invited to interview with the GTL Board of Directors.
Selection criteria include:
- Interest and commitment to serve southern Arizona;
- Time to devote to sessions;
- Involvement in non-employment volunteer activities;
- Leadership skills;
- Strong interpersonal skills;
- Ability and willingness to be a contributing participant;
- Financial and time commitment by employer or sponsoring organization.
Tuition for the Leadership program is $1250. This fee covers meals, study materials. the Mayor's and Governor's luncheons, the first year's GTL dues, reduced fees for GTL events, overnight retreat, Leadership Challenge book and workbook, and other expenses related to class participation. A limited number of scholarships are available to selected candidates who demonstrate need.