We’re Getting Ready for the Class of 2026!

Here’s Our Timeline for the Class of 2026

4th Quarter 2024: Recruitment and Program Planning - Underway Now!

January 21, 2025: Applications Open, Candidate Interviews Begin

March through May 2025: Group Information Sessions Held

May 30, 2025: Applications Due (must be received by this date)

June 2025: Candidates Slate proposed and approved; Selected candidates notified 6/26-6/30/2025

Thinking about participating in CLS?

Consider the CLS Class of 2026 if You…

Have a keen desire to learn more about the Greater Williamsburg area.

Are already involved in the local community. 

Would like to continue the CLS Experience via participation in additional alumni opportunities that are optional, but very beneficial!

Can attend and fully commit to the following required sessions:

  • Meet & Greet Orientation: October 21, 2025
    Meet your classmates and learn more about the CLS Program and what you will be experiencing.

  • CLS Session Days: Tuesdays, January 20, 2026 – March 24, 2026
    These sessions are packed full of presentations, panel discussions, and interactive activities. (Note, there will be a “session break,” with no class the week of February 17, 2026.)

Why Should You Particpate in CLS?

The CLS program has a proven track record – 147 alumni since 2006.

CLS offers a unique, in-depth opportunity to learn about our community "behind the scenes" plus an amazing community engagement opportunity.

  • Engage with key leaders in the Greater Williamsburg area.

  • Interact with community organizations, connect.

  • Collaborate with new friends and neighbors.

CLS utilizes data-driven decisions along with participant feedback to shape program and curriculum content.

Key Factors to Help You Decide

Evaluate Your Commitment:

  • Are you prepared to invest the necessary time and energy into this program?

  • How will this commitment align with your current personal and professional responsibilities?

Assess Timing and Fit:

  • Does this program align with your goals, needs, and priorities at this stage of your life?

  • How will it impact other areas of your life, such as work, family, or personal well-being?

Consider What You Need to Succeed:

  • What specific elements would make the program more effective or beneficial for you?

  • Are there any accomodations or support systems you need to succeed, such as additional resources or mentorship?

Commitment, Tuition and Application Process

Commitment

To participate in the CLS program, you need to be available for all of the sessions. We receive more applicants than we canaccept, so those selected for the program must to commit to attend every session, as follows:

  • Meet & Greet Orientation: Tuesday, October 21, 2025

  • CLS Session Days: Tuesdays, January 20, 2026 – March 24, 2026 (Note: There is a session break with no class on February 17, 2026.)

Additionally, you will be asked to Identify areas of interest to make a positive impact and "give back" to the program and the Greater Williamsburg area.

Failure to attend any full session may result in dismissal and forfeiture of tuition.

Tuition

The tuition is $750.00 and is non-refundable. This covers all sessions, refreshments, lunches, and the administration of the program.

If selected as a participant, tuition is due by September 19, 2025.

Application Process

Candidates will participate in individual interviews and are also required to attend a group information session.

A fully completed application must be submitted to be considered. The application from will be posted on this site January 21, 2025.

Along with the application, the following documents will need to be provided:

  • Personal biography (400 words maximum)

  • Photograph (Photo tips: Use a high-resolution image with a simple background. Be the only person in the picture, with your face taking 50-60% of the frame. Take a selfie or get someone else to take the photo.)

All applications, biographies and photos must be received by the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce by May 30, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The CLS Board makes selections, seeking a cross-section of participants from the community that reflect the CLS program’s values. See Overview for more details on values. Selection and notification by July 31, 2025.

  • Share highlights of your career, plus anything else you want us to know aobut you (for example, accomplishments, volunteer service, hobbies, family).  You may use first person or third person point of view. There is a 400-word maximum.

  • A limited amount of needs-based tuition assistance is available.

  • You can download, print, and complete a blank application form by hand and mail or hand-deliver with a copy of your biography to Community Leadership Service, c/o The Greater Williamsburg Area Chamber & Tourism Alliance, 421 North Boundary Street, Williamsburg, VA 23185.

  • Participants are limited to 18.

  • Most are held in a central Williamsburg area location. To provide an insider’s perspective to community organizations, some sessions are held at locations pertinent to the day’s topic.

  • To participate in the CLS program, you need to be available for all of the sessions. We receive more applicants than we can accept, so those applicants who are selected must commit to attend every session.

  • You can use what you learn in ways that you find interesting and enriching. There is no formal placement process into volunteer positions, you will have established a valuable network of contacts to help you get involved.

Connect with Us to Learn More

Thank you for your interest in Community Leadership Service. Please complete the information below to be connected with a member of our team or to be added to our CLS News and Updates list.