Development ∙ Access ∙ Influence
The unique quality of life we enjoy in the Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti region is a result of strong leaders and responsible citizens. A2Y Leadership, offered by the Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti Regional Chamber, presents a rare opportunity for individuals to develop their leadership strengths, gain direct access to prominent business and community leaders, and define their roles as true stewards of the community.
Development
- Strong curriculum and local focus provide A2Y Leadership participants an appreciation of the complex issues facing the Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti region population, and the skills to address those concerns. Individualized programming helps you identify the leadership qualities you already possess and encourages you to enhance your natural strengths. Dynamic workshops address the capabilities necessary for effective communication, such as inquiry, dialog, and listening techniques. Real-world projects enable collaboration, allowing you to cultivate valuable relationships with classmates and community organizations in need.
Access
Representatives from the business, nonprofit, government and education sectors, as well as the community-at-large, make up each class. Participants have included small business owners, financial institution representatives, public servants, attorneys, executives, university managers and administrators. Not only will your commitment allow you close interaction with this diverse population, but you will have access to the eyes and ears of influential local experts while investigating a broad range of topics including economic development, community services, healthcare, education, government, law enforcement and quality of life.
Influence
A2Y Leadership ’s 9-month curriculum delivers knowledge critical to enhancing your professional career and your role as a community leader. Beginning at the vital two-day retreat, you will develop a broad network of relationships that carry on long after the program ends. Combining your improved leadership skills with your new associations will allow you to better represent your business, responsibly serve a deserving non-profit organization, and be an energetic steward of your community.
Investment & Commitment
- Employers make an investment in their team members that will benefit both the employer and the employee. Each participant will strengthen their knowledge in the local community, meet the current leaders, and develop a network of area professionals. Candidates are generally sponsored by their employers or funded individually. Demonstrate confidence in key employees by making this investment in their professional growth.
The current tuition for the A2Y Leadership program through July 31st is:
- Chamber Member $1650
- Chamber Members: Executive level membership or higher $1400
- Chamber Members Not-For-Profit $1300
- Prospective Members $2150
The tuition covers program costs for an Impact ticket, Orientation, the Retreat, and the eight monthly sessions, including meals and most transportation costs from the program’s point of origin.
A2Y Leadership requires commitment, prioritization, and dedication. Each participant is required to attend every session from the orientation to the retreat and the monthly class sessions. If a class member is absent in excess of two (2) sessions, they forfeit their eligibility to graduate with this year’s class.
2025 A2Y Leadership Class
2024 A2Y Leadership Class
Graduate Testimonials
The Leadership Program through the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Chamber of Commerce is an outstanding program for those leaders in business that would like to gain more insight into services and programs available in the community. It also gives the individual a chance to identify or enhance the leadership skills and qualities they already possess. Being able to make new contacts and connections with fellow business people can create new possibilities and benefits as they work together on team building skills and strengthen relationships.
Barbara Davenport has created a very comprehensive program that looks at a variety of companies, services and programs in the Washtenaw County area. You will hear from influential area experts on a variety of topics and also be able to set yourself apart as a developing leader in the community while enhancing your status in your profession.
I highly recommend the program to anyone that wants to sharpen and develop their leadership skills and increase their profile as a community leader. Going through the Leadership Program was extremely interesting and very informative while giving me a chance to network and create new relationships. The program created by Barb is a winning program and a must for anyone that has interest in developing their leadership skills.
Being involved in the Leadership A2Y program not only grew my knowledge of the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti communities but it also grew my networking base. I would highly recommend this program to any professional who desires to grow in their leadership capacity and knowledge.
I'm so glad I participated in this program. The connections and the friendships I made are incredible, fun and authentic. I've lived in the Ann Arbor area for eight years and I always connected with people socially, but now I feel I have grown my business connections significantly. This program offers a wealth of information on the region and is a great opportunity for people new to the area or for folks who have lived here a long time. There is such a wealth of opportunity and creativity here.
I recently moved to Ypsilanti after living away from southeastern Michigan for over 25 years. Participating in the A2Y Leadership program helped me get reintroduced to the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti communities through a deep dive of introductions to community stakeholders. In addition, I have also made connections with my classmates that have turned into mutually beneficial professional relationships.
