Registration open for Leadership Development 2025 - 2026 cohort

Wabash County, IN (AUG. 25, 2025) – Registration is now open for the 2025-2026 cohort of Grow Wabash County’s flagship Leadership Development Wabash County (LDWC) program.

This transformative, eight-month program serves as a launchpad for emerging leaders and professionals of all ages, equipping them with the skills, experiences, and connections they need to make a lasting impact in Wabash County.  

Since its inception, more than 250 leaders have graduated from the LDWC program. Alumni continue to serve on local boards, strengthen their workplaces, hold government positions, and contribute to the growth and vitality of the Wabash County community.

“We are so excited to welcome a new class of leaders into the LDWC program,” Tenille Zartman, president and CEO of Grow Wabash County, said. “This program is more than just leadership training, it’s a launchpad for personal growth, professional success, and community impact. Each year, we see participants leave with stronger skills, deeper connections, and a renewed passion for making Wabash County an even better place to live and work.”

The 2025–2026 LDWC cohort will meet every third Thursday from October 2025 through May 2026 at various locations across Wabash County, giving participants firsthand exposure to the county’s many assets, resources, and opportunities.

This year’s program will feature a robust lineup of experiences, including DISC and CliftonStrengths assessments, interactive panels with local leaders and organizations, and a hands-on community service project that will take participants beyond the classroom to make a tangible impact in Wabash County.  

Through the curriculum developed in partnership with Indiana University Kokomo, the participants will also be given the opportunity to earn a university-recognized “micro-credential” by completing the LDWC program.  

Acclaimed speakers will return to share their expertise, including Anthony Juliano of Asher Agency, who will lead sessions on communication skills for modern leaders, valuing differences, public speaking, emotional intelligence, effective meeting strategies, and conflict resolution.

Tuition for this program is $995 for GWC Investors and $1195 for GWC Non-investors. The tuition covers all course materials, assessments, meals and snacks provided throughout the 8-month program.  

Grow Wabash County will also award full tuition to one LDWC applicant through the Jim Smith Scholarship, named for Jim Smith, who retired from his position as head facilitator for the LDWC program in 2020.

Applications for the scholarship are now open on the Grow Wabash County website at www.growwabashcounty.com/jimsmithscholarship.

Those interested in sponsoring this year’s program or registering themselves or representatives from their company for the 2025-2026 LDWC cohort can do so by contacting Grow Wabash County at 260-563-5258 or jana@growwabashcounty.com.