Leadership Yates
A professional development experience created to cultivate the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of Yates County. Participants will gain practical tools, peer connections, and leadership insights they can immediately apply in their workplaces and communities.
About the Program
DEVELOP. CONNECT. LEAD.
Leadership Yates County is a six-session leadership development program for current and emerging leaders across business, nonprofit, and civic organizations. Each session blends learning, reflection, and networking to strengthen the participant’s ability to lead with purpose and impact the community.
PROGRAM FEATURES
Locally designed and facilitated with relevance to Yates County
Small cohort (12–15 participants) for meaningful peer learning
Integration of DiSC Leadership assessments and personal leadership plans
Interactive sessions with community and organizational leaders
Session Overview
Each session builds on the previous one, combining leadership skill-building with practical community connections.
Session 1: Leading with Intention
Participants explore their individual leadership style through the DiSC assessment, learn how to set a vision, and align personal and professional goals with purpose. This session establishes a foundation for authentic leadership and self-awareness.
Session 2: Building a Healthy Workplace Culture
Focuses on understanding organizational culture and how leadership decisions shape team engagement and morale. Participants will identify ways to cultivate trust, inclusion, and communication across all levels of their organizations.
Session 3: Leading and Developing Others
Examines the dynamics of leading teams effectively. Topics include coaching strategies, feedback techniques, accountability, and managing generational differences in the workplace.
Session 4: Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making
Explores how leaders can think strategically, make informed decisions, and align resources to achieve long-term goals. Participants work through a case study relevant to Yates County’s business and community landscape.
Session 5: Leading Organizational change
Focuses on navigating change successfully. Participants will learn to assess organizational readiness, lead transitions effectively, and communicate with clarity and empathy through change processes.
Session 6: Capstone Presentations and Celebration
Participants showcase what they’ve learned through a final presentation and group reflection. This session highlights the community impact of the cohort and celebrates their growth as leaders.
Who Should Apply?
Emerging and mid-level leaders ready to expand their influence
Managers, supervisors, or team leads who want to strengthen leadership capacity
Nonprofit and civic leaders seeking to enhance collaboration and impact
Professionals interested in developing a broader understanding of Yates County
Program Investment
$1,100 per participant
Early or team enrollment discounts may apply.
Scholarships are available for nonprofits and small employers through sponsorship support.
PROGRAM SCHEDULE
Five in-person sessions (8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)
One virtual session
Capstone project and graduation celebration
Sponsorship Opportunities
Each session builds on the previous one, combining leadership skill-building with practical community connections.
Sponsorship Levels
Community Champion — $5,000: Premier recognition, 2 employees included, full marketing visibility.
Leadership Partner — $2,500: Logo placement, social acknowledgment, 1 participant included.
Community Builder — $1,250: Recognition across materials and events.
Emerging Leader Supporter — $500: Sponsor a participant scholarship and be recognized for advancing leadership access.
Why Leadership Matters in Yates County
Yates County has a strong tradition of collaboration and entrepreneurship, yet we have lacked a structured program dedicated to cultivating local leaders. Leadership Yates County fills that gap by equipping professionals with the skills and networks needed to drive organizational and community success—without leaving the area.
By participating or sponsoring, you’re not just investing in a program—you’re investing in the next generation of Yates County’s leaders.
GET INVOLVED
Ready to lead or support leadership in Yates County?
Questions?
Contact Steve Griffin
CEO, Finger Lakes EDC
(315) 536-7328 • info@fingerlakesedc.com
Leadership Yates County
Building Stronger Leaders, Teams, and Communities.

