Leadership Austin convenes leaders to provide leadership development and collaborative opportunities that strengthen and transform our communities. Leadership Austin was created in 1979 by leaders within the Austin Chamber of Commerce who sought to prepare a diverse group of future leaders for positions of public and community service. While some 600 cities across the nation now have community leadership development programs, Austin's was among the earliest and continues to be one of the largest and most innovative in the country. One thousand Austinites have passed through our Adult Class, and nearly another thousand have participated in Teen Leadership Austin and LA Kids. Our graduates currently serve Austin on more than 2,800 boards and commissions.
Members hold public office as judges, council members, mayor and more.
Programs such as Austin Partners in Education, Republic Square, Keep Austin Beautiful, and Employers Support Parenting stem directly from the efforts of Leadership Austin members. Leadership Austin graduates can be found wherever Austinites are assuming leadership to improve our community. Leadership Austin programs are administered by an Executive Director. Our board of directors, composed of Leadership Austin graduates sets policy. Many Leadership Austin graduates volunteer their time and expertise to ensure the success of our programs.