The mission of Leadership Winston-Salem – educating, connecting, and energizing leaders to serve and improve the community – guides everything we do. Our programs are all about building strong, lasting relationships with other leaders, learning more about our community, and being inspired to make a difference in our community.
Leadership Winston-Salem, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization began in 1984 by Thomas K. Hearn, Jr., Julius H. Corpening, and C. Edward Pleasants to increase the understanding and commitment to the city’s future during a time of significant change.
Our LWS Flagship Program retained the same format from 1984 until 2004 when it was taken offline to undergo a redesign to incorporate adult learning principles and best practices in experiential learning. The reformulated program, which began in 2005, reflects the results of that effort. From its inception in 1984, over 1,500 individuals representing the rich diversity of our community have graduated from the program.
INSIGHT Winston-Salem for senior-level executives was added in 2012 by key community leaders who serve as trustees for this six-session evening forum. Objectives for this invitation-only offering are:
- Connecting leaders with each other and established local community leaders;
- Facilitating leadership conversations about our community; and
- Fostering engagement and collaboration for community improvement.