Who Should Apply
Leadership Frederick County is designed for professionals who live or work in Frederick County and are curious about how their community works and how they can help shape its future. Ideal candidates are engaged, open-minded, and eager to learn about the people, systems, and issues that influence our region.

Participants bring a wide range of career paths, lived experiences, and perspectives. Whether you’re new to leadership or looking to deepen your impact, LFC offers an inclusive environment where thoughtful dialogue, curiosity, and collaboration are encouraged.

Employer & Time Commitment
Class days are held on Fridays, so participants must have the full support of their employer or be self-employed. In addition to class sessions, participants will engage in a Leaders on Loan group experience and complete an individual Leadership for Service project.

Many local organizations view LFC as a meaningful professional development investment, one that strengthens both their employees and the broader Frederick County community.

The Application Process

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis from February to April each year. Space in the class is limited so apply early! The full application process and a listing of time commitments for this year's program can be found in the application packet.
Online Application
All candidates will complete an online application. This application is your opportunity to share your career and personal background, community service activities and unique qualifications. 

Letter of Reference & Professional Headshot
A letter of reference is required as part of your application. This can be a supervisor, client, colleague or any non-relative who can speak to your leadership experience and character.

Employer Participation Agreement
If applicable, a completed employer participation agreement must also accompany your application. This document is included in the application packet. 

​Interview
Based on the completed application, candidates will be invited to interview with the selection committee. This committee is made of LFC alumni members. The interview is your chance to show off your capacity for leadership, community participation and unique personality.

2026 - 2027 Tuition

Frederick County Chamber Members: $3,200
Non-Members: $3,700

Employees of 501c3 nonprofits are eligible to request partial scholarship assistance of up to $500. Scholarships are awarded based on number of applicants. To request an application for assistance, email us at [email protected].

Tuition can be paid by the participant, participant’s employer or any combination. Tuition covers class members' meals, speaker fees, exhibit tickets, transportation and other expenses for all class days and the graduation dinner. Payment arrangements can be made, as long as full tuition is received before May of the graduating year.

Graduates of the 2026-2027 cohort may apply their LFC leadership experience towards elective or equivalent coursework at Hood College for an approved master’s or doctoral degree. Proof of participation will be required.

 2026-2027 Class Day Commitments

Like any program, commitment to attendance is a vital factor in the success of each participant. Applicants are expected to secure the full support of their employer or be self-employed before making a commitment to the program.

Participants are advised to prioritize the program dates on their calendars and reserve any allowed absences for unforeseen circumstances such as illness or family/work emergencies. The redemption of coursework credits with Hood College is contingent upon an individual's attendance history.
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If you anticipate missing more than two of the scheduled session dates, it is advisable to contemplate deferring your application to a future year. Attendance at the opening and closing retreats (September 10 & 11 and May 7) is mandatory.
  • August 27, 2026*
  • September 10 & 11, 2026
  • October 2, 2026
  • October 23, 2026
  • November 6, 2026*
  • November 20, 2026
  • December 4, 2026 | December 11, 2026 (backup)
  • January 8, 2027 | January 12, 2027 (backup)
  • February 5, 2027 | February 26, 2027 (backup)
  • February 19, 2027*
  • March 5, 2027 | March 12, 2027 (backup)
  • April 9, 2027
  • April 23, 2027
  • May 7, 2027
  • May 13, 2027*
*Unless noted with an asterisk, experiences run a full day in length from 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Approximately) 
"If you are genuinely interested in the shape of the community...LFC is a master's class in community engagement." - Mayor Michael O'Connor, City of Frederick

UPCOMING EVENTS

NEW MEMBERS
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118 North Market Street, Suite 100, Frederick, MD  21701
[email protected] | Phone: (301) 662-4164
Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm