Leadership La Plata

What is Leadership La Plata?

Leadership La Plata (LLP) is the Chamber’s flagship leadership development program, designed to inspire, connect, and empower leaders throughout La Plata County. Since 1988, more than 600 graduates have built lifelong relationships, discovered their leadership potential, and contributed to the strength of our community.

LLP is more than a class — it’s a journey that blends education, connection, and community service. Participants explore local issues, deepen their leadership skills, and join a network of leaders dedicated to shaping La Plata County’s future.

Participate in Leadership La Plata

Who Should Apply?

LLP is for individuals who want to grow as leaders — both personally and professionally —while making a lasting impact in our community.

Why Apply?

Strengthen your leadership skills
Build lasting connections with peers and mentors
Gain a deeper understanding of La Plata County
Be part of a legacy of leaders shaping our future

How to Apply

Applications open each spring for the upcoming class. Tuition is $850, with scholarships and payment plans available. Retreat kicks off the program in September.

Apply Now

FAQ for Potential Participants

Who participates?

Business professionals, nonprofit leaders, educators, and community members from diverse backgrounds. Applicants must be 25 or older and either: have lived in La Plata County for at least 1 year; or worked in the county for at least 5 years.

If selected, participants must commit to the full program, including retreat and class days, plus year 2 participation. Employer/supervisor approval is required.

What is the time commitment?

LLP class participation is a two-year commitment, and participants must attend the opening retreat and all scheduled class days. Employer/supervisor approval is also required.

Year 1: Begins with a three-day September retreat, followed by eight all-day sessions on the second Friday of each month (October–May). The year concludes with a Visioning & Graduation Day on the third Friday in May.
Year 2: Alumni return in two-member teams to plan and coordinate one Friday session for the incoming LLP class.

How much does it cost?

What will I gain?

When are applications and interviews?

Do I need references?

Alumni Engagement - It doesn’t end at graduation.

Being part of Leadership La Plata means joining a lifelong community of leaders dedicated to growing, giving back, and supporting one another. Alumni engagement keeps the LLP experience alive — through connection, service, and continued learning.

Leadership La Plata: Level Up Alumni

Continue growing as a leader while giving back to the community we love. Through advanced workshops, peer learning, and shared experiences, you’ll keep building skills, deepening connections, and making a difference in La Plata County.

Learn More

Alumni Directory: Stay Connected!

Your hub for connecting with fellow graduates across industries and class years. Keep your information current to stay involved with events, share opportunities, and strengthen relationships within the Leadership La Plata community.

View the Directory

Barbara Conrad Award

Presented annually at the Chamber’s Southwest Colorado Rocks Awards Celebration, this honor recognizes graduates who embody LLP’s mission and create a lasting impact through their leadership and service in La Plata County.

Nominate Someone Today

Hear from alumni and current participants in the LLP Blog

Developing a Culture of Collaboration

September 22, 2025

Back to Blog by Beth Porter, Senior Marketing Consultant at Four Corners Broadcasting & LLP Class of 15-16 Collaboration is more than a buzzword-it’s essential. Effective teams reduce handoffs, solve problems faster, and build trust while drawing on diverse perspectives to spark creativity. But collaboration requires structure and intentional effort. Below are three practical steps…