Leadership Asheville Accepting Applications
for 2004-2005 Program

Since 1982, Leadership Asheville has been working with people who want to play a role in making Asheville and Buncombe County better places to live and work. One of UNC Asheville's Leadership Programs, Leadership Asheville, is a nine-month program of study and service which brings together people who care about issues affecting the community and share a concern for the region's future. Participants in Leadership Asheville strengthen their leadership, deepen their commitment to the community, and discuss issues in areas such as governance, education, economic development, and the environment.

"For the past 22 years, Leadership Asheville has worked with over 800 men and women who live, work, and volunteer in Buncombe County," said Gerry Goertz,

UNC Asheville Leadership Programs director. "The program has given them a better understanding of the history and potential of Asheville and Buncombe County and has helped them to define their personal role in the community's leadership."

Leadership Asheville is now accepting applications for the 2004-2005 class. Following a two-day opening retreat in September, the program meets one day per month through May. In addition to topic/training sessions, all participants are given the opportunity to make a difference in the community by working on team service projects that address community needs. Every effort is made to make the program personally meaningful and professionally valuable.

Leadership Asheville tuition is $1,200, which may be paid by the employer, sponsoring organization, or participant. Partial scholarships are available. For more information and application materials, please contact Gerry Goertz at 828/251-6125 or leadership@unca.edu.

Media Contacts:

• Gerry Goertz, UNCA Leadership Program Director, 828/251-6125
• Jill Yarnall, UNCA Public Information Assistant Director, 828/251-6526