DARKE COUNTY – Do you want to grow as a leader, connect with other motivated individuals, and make a greater impact in Darke County? Now is your opportunity.
Darke County Economic Development (DCED) is excited to announce that applications for the 2027 Leadership Darke County class will open September 14, 2026, and remain open through October 25, 2026. The upcoming class will be the third cohort of Leadership Darke County.
Leadership Darke County brings together individuals from across the community who are ready to step outside their everyday roles, expand their leadership skills, build meaningful connections, and gain a better understanding of the people, businesses, organizations, and opportunities that make Darke County a great place to live and work.
“This program has continued to grow into something really special for Darke County,” said Denise Elsas, Workforce Specialist and Coordinator of Leadership Darke County. “Leadership Darke County gives participants the opportunity to learn from one another, meet people they may not otherwise have the chance to connect with, and see our community from different perspectives. We are excited to begin our third cohort and continue investing in the leaders who will help shape the future of Darke County.”
The 2027 Leadership Darke County experience will span approximately 10 months, beginning in February and concluding with a graduation celebration at the DCED Fall Mixer. Participants will spend time both in the classroom and throughout the community, learning from local professionals and experiencing firsthand the work being done throughout Darke County.
The 2027 class will explore a wide range of leadership topics and community experiences, including:
Orientation at Garst Museum
Self-Leadership Assessment at Upper Valley Career Center
Networking at Family Health
Career Management & Mentorship at Moriroku Technology North America
Communication
Emotional Intelligence with a visit to the Darke County Courthouse and Commissioners
Team Building
Conflict Management & Critical Thinking at Tribute Funeral Homes
Community Leadership through a panel featuring local nonprofit organizations
Graduation during the Darke County Economic Development Fall Mixer
Each session is designed to provide participants with practical leadership development while creating opportunities to form relationships with fellow class members and community leaders.
Leadership Darke County is more than a leadership class—it is an opportunity to become more connected to the community and to the people who are helping move Darke County forward.
Applications will be accepted September 14 through October 25, 2026. Individuals who live or work in Darke County and are interested in strengthening their leadership skills and becoming more engaged in the community are encouraged to apply.
Applications and additional information are available at www.darkecounty.com/leadership-dc
For questions about the program, contact Denise Elsas, Workforce Specialist and Coordinator of Leadership Darke County, at delsas@darkecounty.com or 937-548-3250.
