By DUBBIE BUCKLER
Carmel Rotary Club Board
Hamilton County Leadership Academy Executive Director Maria Kanger addressed Carmel Rotarians at their March 20 meeting about the Hamilton County Leadership Academy (HCLA). She explained its purpose and the application process.
Kanger shared that the HCLA was established in 1991 to develop a pool of knowledgeable community leaders to apply their skills to government, business, and civic activities and positively shape the future of Hamilton County. The HCLA was developed by the Noblesville Chamber and the Carmel-Clay Chamber of Commerce. HCLA’s mission is to educate and inspire leadership to create a positive impact in our community. Funding is provided by participant tuition fees, contributions from local governmental entities and corporations, grants, and private donations.
Kanger explained that each year the HCLA selects a cohort of leaders to complete a comprehensive, 10-month curriculum exploring local issues. After completing the program, graduates are prepared to assume active roles in addressing critical issues facing Hamilton County.
Eligible applicants must reside or work in Hamilton County; share a desire to gain a deeper understanding of Hamilton County trends, operations, and services to the community; demonstrate a record of leadership both professionally and through volunteerism in the community; have the opportunity and passion to significantly influence issues facing our community; articulate the impact they hope to make in Hamilton County due to their HCLA participation; be able to commit to the attendance and time requirements of a monthly class experience from 8:20 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. one time a month from September to May (missing no more than two classes) and mandatory attendance at a two-day opening retreat in August and a two-day overnight closing retreat in June; invest in their leadership journey and have the ability to pay the $2,250 program tuition; and be eager to learn, network, and engage with peers across Hamilton County. Cohort members must arrive on time and stay until sessions adjourn.
If these requirements are not met, this could jeopardize the member’s matriculation to graduation and grant of alumni status.
Kanger announced that applications for the 2027 HCLA are now open. Applicants can go to HCLA.net for the application and instructions. Tuition for HCLA is $2,250 and may be paid by the class member, their employer, or a sponsor supporting the class member. Limited scholarships are available, and applicants should state their interest and need in the HCLA application.
Kanger emphasized that the class size is limited and the selection of participants is highly competitive. She commended the many Rotarians who are HCLA alums and those who support HCLA.