Emerging Leaders
Frequently Asked Questions
The FOCUS Emerging Leaders program offers participants a total of 40+ civic leadership development hours, spread over the course of 3-4 months.
The program includes a mix of half-day and full-day sessions, all held on weekdays. You’ll also participate in a small-group Civic Action Project. Expect to spend 15-20 hours on this project, with some work occurring during regularly scheduled program days.
While content is continually updated for relevance and to meet the needs of the class, each cohort covers the following topics:
- Understanding Self and Leadership: This covers an in-depth analysis of each participant’s personality type, with practical applications for more effective networking, relationship-building, and strengthening leadership skills.
- Defining Your Personal Brand: Personal Branding is more than you think. This session will cover personal branding, which encompasses your online presence and personality as well as first impressions and behavior in both your personal and professional life.
- Civic Minded Leadership: This topic covers some of the intricacies of St. Louis’ unique landscape, both geographically and politically, and current regional hot topics. Participants will also have a chance to gain strategies for building stronger communities.
- Diversity and Cultural Awareness: This session aims to examine the participant’s assumptions and biases, and ties those ideas back to best organizational practices.
- Finding your WHY as a Leader: This session will examine values-based leadership and structure for identifying passion and service to others, giving participants an understanding of ways to pursue these aspirations while advancing their career.
Sessions frequently include a mix of speakers, interviews with regional leaders, small-group discussion, interactive exercises and reflection activities.
Upon graduation, you’ll become part of an extensive network of FOCUS program alumni across the St. Louis region (and around the country). FOCUS alumni events are held throughout the year, including alumni dinners, networking opportunities, educational programs and volunteer opportunities. You can also stay engaged by becoming a member of FOCUS St. Louis.
Yes! If you know someone who could benefit from the Emerging Leaders experience, you’re welcome to submit a nomination. All prospective participants must still complete an application by the session deadline.
“The Emerging Leaders program allowed me to learn so much more about my civic leadership capabilities while also networking with some incredible individuals who are just as passionate as I am about making a difference in the community.”
Adriana Osorio
ADA Partner, Centene Corporation
Emerging Leaders Spring 2021