SIGNATURE
For Four Decades, Stark County’s Leaders Have Come Here.
The Signature Program is Leadership Stark County's flagship program — built for business and community leaders ready to take their careers and their community involvement to the next level.
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One class. Ten months. An insider’s look at how Stark County works, connects, and moves forward.
Who It’s For
Mid-to senior-level professionals, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit executives who are ready to make a significant impact in Stark County and seek to broaden their leadership perspective.
The Experience
Participants engage in monthly program days that explore key sectors like education, government, and justice, combined with hands-on community service projects and elite networking opportunities.
The Impact
Graduates emerge as highly skilled, community-minded leaders with the strategic vision and local connections needed to drive positive change across our region's businesses and institutions.
Designed for both seasoned professionals and emerging leaders, this ten-month immersive experience is ideal for individuals passionate about making a lasting impact in their community.
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The journey begins with a two-day overnight retreat in September, followed by monthly one-day sessions, along with exclusive behind-the-scenes tours and site visits.
Opening Retreat
A 48-hour experience focused on Stark County’s history, strengths, and challenges, along with personal leadership styles, team building, and ethics.
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Stark County Day
A whirlwind SARTA tour covering nearly 200 miles of the county. Community leaders join throughout the day to discuss local assets, challenges, similarities, and differences while introducing participants to all that Stark County offers.
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Economic Development Day
Explore the components of economic growth and current issues affecting our community’s economic health through tours and panel discussions, including lunch and in-depth conversations with CEOs.
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Human Services Day
Meet the organizations and people serving local residents, and learn about the community needs and challenges that shape their work.
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Asset Building Day
Explore how communities identify, nurture, and develop leaders from all walks of life. Learn core concepts of ideation and discovery while preparing for future community development opportunities.
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Education Day
Examine current realities, future needs, and opportunities for leaders to strengthen local education.
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Cultural Diversity & Heritage Day
Celebrate the diversity within the class and community. Explore the economic value diversity brings to Stark County and discuss perceived challenges.
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Arts Day
Discover how the arts contribute to quality of life in Stark County and support the community’s emotional, educational, and financial well-being.
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Justice Day
Explore the civil and criminal justice systems, their processes, and their services to the community, with particular attention to juvenile issues. Includes lunch with judges in their chambers.
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Closing Program Day & Graduation
During the day, reflect on what you’ve learned throughout the program and how to turn awareness and advocacy into action. In the evening, celebrate your graduation with friends, family, invited guests, and Leadership Stark County supporters.
Investing in your employees’ leadership development is an investment in your organization’s future.
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Participants return with stronger communication, greater self-awareness, and a better understanding of how to use their strengths—and the strengths of others—to lead more effectively.
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Just as importantly, they build meaningful connections across Stark County and become more engaged in the community they live and work in. That combination supports stronger teams, greater employee engagement, and long-term talent retention.
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Words from Our Signature Alumni
Learning things about Stark County that I had not been exposed to nor thought about will help my personal growth within the community.
Judge Matthew P. Kreitzer, Current Chief Magistrate of the Stark County Family Court
"Leadership Stark County has had a profound impact in my life it's taught me how to be a true servant leader"
— Joe French, President of Stark County Catholic Schools, Class 14 Participant
I have learned about amazing organizations and individuals in Stark. The program has broadened my perspective on what it means to be leader."
Mary Ellen Icaza, CEO & Executive Director of Stark County District Library
Signature FAQ's
SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY
Your investment in Leadership Stark County ensures the continued growth and development of visionary leaders who drive meaningful change across our region.
EXPLORE PROGRAMS
Leadership for every step.Â
It pushed me to face my leadership weaknesses, embrace my strengths, and grow in ways I didn’t expect. I leave this experience more self-aware, more confident, and better equipped to influence others with intention and heart.