Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About the Leadership Oakland Cornerstone Program
What is Leadership Oakland?
Who participates in Leadership Oakland?
How does the program work?
What is the cost?
Is there a Cornerstone scholarship or payment plan?
How will I benefit from participating in Leadership Oakland?
How do I apply and get into the program?
Do Leadership Oakland graduates stay involved after the program year?
What do current and past participants say about the program?
What is Leadership Oakland?
Since 1990, the Leadership Oakland Cornerstone Program has brought together over 1000 leaders from corporate, civic and non-profit organizations throughout the community. Each year, as part of the 9-month program, 50 developing leaders delve into the issues facing the region - from education, government and the justice system to health and human services and race and ethnic diversity. In-depth, monthly sessions, lead by experts in each of these arenas, focus on both the treasures and challenges facing the region.
The results are astounding. By building a shared understanding and partnership, Cornerstone graduates develop purpose and commitment to the community. They emerge from their leadership Oakland experience eager to make a difference by putting their established leadership skills to use. Whether it's the organizations they represent or the community as a whole, each and every one reaps the benefits of their Leadership Oakland experience. Leadership Oakland is an independent 501 (c) (3) organization whose mission is: to develop leadership skills, explore key issues impacting the region, and enable participants to reach their full potential professionally, personally and in their community.
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Who participates in the Cornerstone Program?
The program is open to all persons living or working in Oakland County and the surrounding region. Participants represent the community and therefore come from diverse backgrounds. From large corporations, to small businesses and a range of non-profit organizations, leaders are identified and nominated to participate in the program. Leadership Oakland does not discriminate when selecting individuals to participate in the program and encourages a diverse group of participants. If you are interested in the program but do not know a graduate that might nominate you for the program, contact the Leadership Oakland office for information about self nomination.
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How does the program work?
The program year kicks off with a three-day, overnight Leadership Development Retreat in September. At this retreat, participants get to know one another, gain an overview of the region, examine their leadership potential, and set goals for the year. Eight monthly sessions from October through May, and several optional sessions follow over the next nine months.
Sessions are designed by Leadership Oakland alums and presenters are experts in their field. Each session is designed to expose participants to current resources and issues to promote an awareness of our county and region as a whole. Sessions are a combination of presentation, interactive exercises and personal and group reflection. Leadership Oakland challenges participants to examine how they might take appropriate action on issues from a personal, professional and/or public perspective. The year long program concludes with a popular evening graduation celebration event.
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What is the cost?
The cost of the year long program is $2,750 and includes: overnight accommodations at the retreat, all meals, materials, graduation, and misc. program costs. When you consider this covers the 3 day retreat, 9 all day sessions, and the graduation event, it is a true value for top-notch professional development!
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Is there a Cornerstone scholarship or payment plan?
A limited scholarship fund is available for those in need of tuition assistance. Each year, two, $1,000 competitive scholarships are awarded. These funds were raised through the class project of LOXVI. Additional $500 tuition reduction scholarships are granted to several individuals on a case by case basis. These funds are made available through fund raising activities and alumni donations.
If you are in need of tuition assistance, please submit a short letter with your application explaining the reason for your request. If your application is received prior to the application deadline, you will be invited to apply for one of the LOXVI scholarships. Those that do not receive a $1,000 award may receive a $500 tuition reduction grant. We will also work with you on a payment plan if that is necessary for your participation. Those on payment plans will be asked to sign a payment contract. The plans are individualized to help meet your needs and yet stay ahead of actual program costs. Please contact the Executive Director to discuss details. 248-952-6880 x 2.
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How will I benefit from participating in Leadership Oakland?
Participants and graduates of Leadership Oakland have a leg up on many others in the community. They are a part of one of the most powerful leadership networks available. Over 1000 LO alums are closely bonded together through the shared experiences they have had in the program. Graduates of the program frequently call upon one another for business contacts, resources and information. The friendships made among the class and throughout the Alumni Association are long lasting, positive influences in the lives and careers of participants.
In addition to the member network, participants are introduced and provided direct access to presenters who are top leadership officials and experts in the region. Many of our graduates attribute Leadership Oakland for providing the knowledge, connections and confidence to make career moves and other major positive life changes.
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How do I apply and get into the program?
You may obtain an application by contacting the Leadership Oakland office 248.952.6880 x 1. The class is generally limited to 50 participants who will be selected by the LEADERSHIP OAKLAND Selection Committee. The Committee will be seeking participation from varied ethnic, minority, age and gender groups to represent a cross-section of the community. Participants should be active in business, and/or professional, educational, organized labor, governmental, artistic, religious, service or community organizations. Retired individuals are also considered.
The most important factor in selection is identifying those individuals most apt to utilize their leadership for the long-term benefit of the community. In reviewing applications, the Selection Committee looks for candidates who demonstrate the following characteristics:
- A sincere commitment, motivation and interest to serve our region.
- Genuine concern for the future of Oakland County and the region.
- Potential for advancement to top leadership positions within their own organization.
- Willingness and ability to make the time commitment required by the program.
- The intention of seeking appointments to community boards, commissions or key volunteer leadership positions.
Do Leadership Oakland graduates stay involved after the program year?
Yes! We are proud of the strong alumni participation that keeps our organization and all of its members strong! Several hundred graduates are active on Leadership Oakland Committees planning programs and events, serving on the LO Board, and providing advisory support for the administrative operations of the organization.
Events such as: Taste of Leadership Oakland, The Breakfast of Champions Series, social events, and a host of continuing education opportunities are available. "Leadership Oakland Makes a Difference" projects such as THAW (the Heat and Warmth) winter survival radiothon, neighborhood cleanups, and spring workdays are opportunities for alums to work together to strengthen our communities. And LO alums have fun! Friendly class competitions, after hours discussion groups, and informal get-togethers involving food and drinks are common.
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What do current and past participants say about the program?
The Cornerstone Program is truly a unique and rewarding experience that our alums do not forget! Just take a look at things people have been saying:
"My experience with Leadership Oakland has been nothing short of outstanding. It has provided me the opportunity to network with likeminded, dynamic people all with the same core qualities: the passion and desire to do whatís right and the leadership skills to make a difference. Secondarily, the various programs that I have been exposed to have increased my understanding of not only the challenges that we face in the county, but also regionally. Leadership Oaklandís programs are dynamic, thought provoking, and geared for leaders."
"Leadership Oakland is a bridge builder in our region. By connecting participants and alumni members to key resources throughout Southeast Michigan, and through the events and activities this organization sponsors, our region has leaders who are focused on collaboration as a way to build economic strength. Additionally, participation in the program prepares individuals to question the status quo and, importantly, to step up to the opportunity of contributing to solutions to our regionís toughest challenges. I recommend this program to anyone that cares about leadership in a way that contributes to something even greater than the 'bottom line'."
"The personal and professional development afforded by my association with Leadership Oakland hasn't stopped with the Cornerstone program graduation. I feel like a person who is "up to date and connected" through ongoing educational opportunities, access to resources, timely exposure to the issues, and networking with community and business leaders. I've developed professional and personal relationships that will last a lifetime. If I have a business question or are in need of a resource or contact, there is always an alum to help me. I love it!"
