Photo credit: Tom Huntoon

About Leadership McKean

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A Brief History
The process to create Leadership McKean began in fall 2004 when a few community leaders with diverse perspectives and roles met to discuss the growing gap of emerging leaders.

At the initial meeting, they unanimously agreed that the circumstances were not only an issue in Bradford but a common concern throughout the county, region, and state in general.  This was substantiated by the number of leadership programs in place and the variety of examples throughout.

Following that meeting and for the next two meetings, the group conducted inquiries and pulled together best practices of other Leadership programs. 

The initial steering committee had representatives from all corners of the county.
The Leadership McKean 8 Month Core Program
We are currently accepting applications for the 2025-2026 LM Core Class. The deadline to apply is Friday, August 22, 2025. Applicants will be notified of the Selection Committee's decision by Friday, August 29, 2025.  The program will begin Friday, October 10, 2025 meeting one Friday per month through May. The Presentations and Graduation Ceremony will be held in the evening on May 20, 2026. Tuition for the program is $825 and is due after acceptance into the Program. 
The Core Program is designed to:
  • Strengthen the county's civic capacity and economic growth. 
  • Identify new and emerging leaders and enhance a network of contacts in the county. 

Participants of this program will need to live and/or work in McKean County and the selection committee will ensure that each class represents the diverse geographic areas, ages, professions, abilities, income levels, and ethnic groups within McKean County.

Through a guided comprehensive leadership program, participants will:
  • Enhance their leadership skills
  • Recognize & develop their leadership potential
  • Identify ways that fit their own interests & personalities to create a better future for McKean County
  • Have an opportunity to develop a network with current and emerging leaders
  • Gain a deep understanding of McKean County and its challenges and opportunities
  • Acquire awareness of diverse institutions working in McKean County to improve health, human services, education, economic and community development, tourism, arts, entertainment, natural resource management, and the judicial system.

The program locations vary each month and sessions include hands-on activities, tours, panel discussions, and presentations by those with relevant expertise.