Marion TWENTY39, named for the 200th anniversary of the founding of the City of Marion, Illinois, is a year-long leadership program offering a comprehensive and immersive experience designed to cultivate essential leadership skills, provide personal growth opportunities, and prepare individuals for higher levels of responsibility. What to expect:
- Skill Development: Throughout the year, participants will focus on building core leadership competencies such as strategic thinking, decision-making, team management, communication, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence.
- Hands-on Learning: Expect a mix of workshops, seminars, case studies, and real-world projects that encourage practical application of leadership principles. This could involve group activities, role-playing, and problem-solving scenarios to simulate leadership challenges.
- Mentorship and Networking: Marion TWENTY39 offers access to experienced mentors, allowing for personalized guidance and career advice. Additionally, you’ll have opportunities to network with peers and industry leaders, expanding your professional connections.
- Self-Reflection and Growth: Participants will undergo self-assessment exercises and reflections to gain deeper insights into their leadership style, strengths, and areas for improvement.
- Team Dynamics and Collaboration: Leadership isn’t just about individual success; expect to collaborate with others in team-based projects, gain experience in leading diverse groups, foster collaboration, and navigate team dynamics.
- Exposure to Different Leadership Styles: You’ll have the chance to explore various leadership philosophies and practices from different industries, which will help you adapt and find your leadership approach.
- Real-World Impact: Marion TWENTY39 includes opportunities for participants to take on projects that have tangible outcomes, offering a chance to apply what you’ve learned in a meaningful way, whether that’s in a workplace, community, or organizational context.
- Continuous Feedback and Evaluation: Expect regular feedback from peers, mentors, and program facilitators. This ongoing evaluation will help you track progress, refine your skills, and focus on your leadership development.
- Culmination of Learning: Towards the end of the program, you will present a project that showcases your achievements, reflections, and how you’ve grown throughout the year.
Overall, a year-long leadership program is an enriching journey that hones your technical leadership abilities and nurtures your personal development, preparing you for greater roles and responsibilities.
Specifically:
- The Marion TWENTY39 class will meet monthly from May through April. The cadence for the class will be held on the second Thursday of each month, except for observed holidays. Typically, the class will meet from 8:00 AM – 2:45 PM with lunch provided. Applicants should understand the importance of attending all monthly classes.
- Between classes, participants will be encouraged to read a leadership book or listen to a podcast, which will be discussed at the next session.
- Unstructured social get-togethers are encouraged between monthly classes. Additional time outside of class may be required to execute a class project.
- The materials fee for the class is $500.00/year, which can be paid by the participant or the participant’s employer. A limited number of scholarships may be available.
- Two letters of recommendation will be required for the application. Applicants will be asked to confirm their employer’s permission to attend all monthly sessions.
Questions about the program should be directed to Jennifer Olson at JOlson@CityofMarionIL.gov or 618.499.7038