Leadership Greater Concord Accepting Class Of 2027 Applications

CONCORD, NH — Leadership Greater Concord, a program of the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, is accepting applications for its Class of 2027.

This annual leadership initiative introduces area professionals to the workings of the capital region. Over 650 community members have participated in the program during its three decades of operation.

Participants in Leadership Greater Concord embark on a nine-month immersion into the greater Concord community. The program includes interactive session days that cover public resources and governance. Each class connects with business and civic leaders who are involved in decisions about Greater Concord's future.

"You learn so much about what's going on in your community," Patricia McLaughlin of Riverbend Community Mental Health, a Class of 2026 participant, stated. "It's this deep knowledge level where you learn the soundtrack… meeting with stakeholders, meeting with community leaders… [it] has been really fascinating."

Garry Cornelius of Merrimack County Savings Bank, from the Class of 2024, said the program "fast-tracked something that would have taken me years to do independently on my own."

The 2027 program begins in September 2026 and continues with monthly day-long sessions. A graduation reception is scheduled for June 2027. Participants gain experience across various regional aspects, including history, arts, culture, education, housing, government, criminal justice, economic development, media, and health and human services.

Speakers include Gov. Kelly Ayotte, Executive Councilor Karen Liot Hill, and Concord Mayor Byron Champlin. Other speakers are Commissioner Lori Weaver of the New Hampshire Department of Health & Human Services, Jim Schachter of New Hampshire Public Radio, and members of the Concord Police Department. Participants engage in conversations with these presenters.

"My most favorite thing about the class is the people," Sarah Glaude of Social Club Creamery, a Class of 2026 participant, said. "I look forward each month to meeting with this great group and seeing how close we’ve gotten."

These connections create an environment for discussing challenging issues and sharing insights.

Leadership Greater Concord classmates form bonds that can lead to working together as community partners. These connections also serve as stepping stones for volunteer opportunities and civic engagement roles. The program prepares participants for leadership roles as elected officials, industry leaders, or nonprofit board members.

Applicants from any industry or sector are invited by the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce. Interested individuals can learn more and apply online by May 3 at concordnhchamber.com/lgc.