Participants are expected to attend every program day. The commitment of each class member is critical to the success of the program. Attendance is mandatory for orientation and the opening overnight retreat. There are also attendance requirements for the remaining program days, allowing participants up to 8 hours of excused absence for unexpected emergencies. Missing between 8 and 16 hours of class meeting time will require a participant to attend an appropriate number of meetings or events the following year in order to officially graduate. If a participant misses more than 16 hours, he or she may be asked to withdraw from the program.

We understand that from time to time last minute childcare, transportation, or other family issues may make it difficult to meet our attendance requirements. We are committed to working within our own organization and with other local organizations to provide solutions to those issues for our class members when they arise.

Participants contribute time and effort to a team project and participate in additional activities outside the monthly program days to enrich and complete the experience. The schedule and time commitment outside of class time requires at least 20 hours over the 9-month period.

Ultimately, Leadership Asheville reserves the right to make graduation decisions contingent upon a participant’s fulfilling all program requirements.  This includes, but is not limited to, attendance, team project assignments, readings, exercises, and out-of class activities.

After completing the program, graduates are expected to volunteer for 20 hours of service to the Leadership Asheville program or to UNC Asheville over the course of 2 years.

All applicants are eligible regardless of their own, or their employers,’ abilities to financially support their participation.  Program participant sponsors are expected to support their employees to the best of their ability by giving them time to participate and contributing to tuition.  For-profit, private sector sponsors are encouraged to contribute additional funds to provide financial assistance to those participants who are employed by small nonprofit organizations, public sector entities, or self-employed.

Some corporations/organizations have an internal application process for selecting applicants from their organizations.  Applicants should check with their employers before submitting an application.

Selection to the Leadership Asheville Program is made without regard to financial circumstances. Requests for financial assistance are confidential and have no bearing on the selection process. A request is considered only after the Leadership Asheville participant selection process is complete and will not influence consideration of your application.

Financial assistance is provided to those candidates who are accepted into the program and demonstrate financial need that would otherwise prevent participation. If you work for a company or an organization that employs 25 or more people and they are contributing money to your tuition, you are not eligible for financial assistance.

When granted, assistance award amounts are based on need, the number of requests received, and the amount of funds available each year. The average amount of financial assistance varies. However, Leadership Asheville is working with alumni, friends and supporters to provide two or three full scholarships to each class. These scholarships will be awarded to participants of color from underrepresented communities. Priority for financial assistance is given to participants who are from underrepresented communities, employed by small nonprofit organizations, public sector entities, or are self-employed. Leadership Asheville is committed to equity and diversity and to making its program available to all members of our community.

Applying for Financial Assistance

For financial assistance, you must check the box on your application in order to be considered. Please contact us directly for more information.