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October, 15th,2026
St. Joseph, MI – The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, in partnership with Lake Michigan College and The Purpose Partners, is proud to announce that its Leadership Academy program, Leadership Accelerator, is now accepting applications for the 2027 Cohort.
Designed for current and emerging leaders at every stage of their careers, Leadership Accelerator engages, empowers, and develops the next generation of leaders in Michigan's Great Southwest. Through an intensive seven-month curriculum, a diverse cohort gains the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to excel in their roles, lead their organizations, and make a lasting impact on the community.
The program's impact is measurable. Participants in the 2026 cohort reported a 47% gain in their overall confidence as leaders, with average self-ratings rising from 5.63 before the program to 8.27 upon completion. That growth reflects the program's emphasis on practical skills participants can put to work right away, giving them the confidence to lead their teams, navigate difficult conversations, and take on greater responsibility within their organizations and the community.
“The vitality of our region depends on the strength of its leaders. The measurable growth demonstrated by our 2026 cohort affirms the value of Leadership Accelerator and the importance of investing in talent development. We look forward to welcoming the 2027 cohort and to the lasting contributions its members will make to their organizations and to Southwest Michigan,” said Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber.
Sessions give participants a practical, community-rooted perspective on what it takes to lead in Southwest Michigan.
Key learning outcomes include:
- Understanding personal strengths through the CliftonStrengths assessment
- Collaborative decision-making
- Strengthening critical thinking capabilities
- Navigating crucial conversations
- Recognizing the importance of inclusion
- Understanding politics and leadership
- Building emotional intelligence
- Increasing community awareness
"I think this program helped my confidence a lot in the workplace and in how to handle real and practical situations. It helped me understand how I fit in within my organization and how to have a voice." Cohort Participant, 2026 Leadership Accelerator.
Leadership Accelerator is ideal for emerging team leads, established managers, business owners, and forward thinkers. Employers benefit as well: businesses that invest in leadership development see increased employee engagement and customer satisfaction (Inc.com), along with a 22% increase in profitability and a 67% increase in productivity (Center for Creative Leadership).
The program consists of thirteen half-day sessions held twice a month on Thursdays, January through July 2027, from 8:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Beginning on January 26, 2027.
All sessions will be held at Lake Michigan College's Benton Harbor campus. The program cost is $1,500.
Applications are due by December 11, 2026. To apply, click the button below:
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