Signature Program
The Signature Program Experience
The Leadership Rochester Signature Program is dedicated to creating a legacy of leaders to strengthen our Greater Rochester Region. We go above and beyond standard leadership training. LR leaders deliver a broad experiential curriculum that enables professionals to deepen their understanding about our community systems including the business, nonprofit, government, and community systems. Participants explore the business sector, healthcare sector, education, neighborhood development, community groups, human services, and government systems . The program makes Rochester and Monroe County the classroom by meeting at different venues across Greater Rochester and hearing directly from the foremost leaders and experts in each field.
Who we’re looking for…
- Outstanding managers, and senior leadership professionals, particularly those with an outward facing responsibilities with the community.
- Emerging professional leaders who have been identified as being on a path toward senior leadership potential in their community or organizations.
- Professionals engaged in the community or active in volunteer service, especially at the board level.
- Leaders new to the area looking for a better understanding of the greater Rochester community, its history and current community climate.
- Individuals with a desire to facilitate positive change and make a greater impact on the community through their work or personal action.
- Diverse candidates across all sectors of private, public, and government sector employment are strongly encouraged.
Key Dates
Next Class 2023-2024
APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN
MAY 30 PRIORITY DEALINE
July 15 – Applications Close
June 30 – Decision notices begin.
Applications accepted on a rolling basis. When capacity is exceeded, the applicatin window will close early. This is often occurs in June. So please don’t postpone application submission if you plan to apply.
PROGRAM DATES
Fridays 8 am -5 pm unless otherwise noted

Participant Benefits
- To engage and cultivate civic leadership in those who represent a cross-section of business, non-profit, education, and government organizations
- To develop a better understanding of what it means to be a community leader
- To develop a deeper understanding of economic and social challenges in the community
- To learn about assets and resources strengthening the community
- To create an environment where class members forge a strong bond and learn to approach challenges creatively using their collective talents and experiences

Employer Benefits
- Strengthens the organization’s connection and participation in community affairs
- Develops employees with increased organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills
- Gives companies new access to a network of community leaders and resources
- Increases name recognition for the sponsoring employer organization
- Gives companies new insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the greater Rochester region and offers insight on how businesses can help strengthen our community

Community Benefits
- Develops a committed, knowledgeable group of people prepared to be effective community leaders
- Results in expanded community involvement by the participants
- Instills a greater appreciation for the current challenges and strengths of the community
- Encourages creative partnerships and initiatives between public & private sectors
Learn More
For a complete look at our signature program and history, download and view the program guide.
Virtual Information Session
Noon – 1:00 pm
MAR 1, MAR 3, APR 19
Nominate a Candidate
Complete nomination form or email LR.
APPLY
Accepted on a rolling basis. Interviews begin late April.
May 31 – Priority Deadline
July 15 – Applications Close (May close earlier if class capacity is exceeded.)
Preview copy of the application available here.