Submitted by Leadership San Juan Islands.
Leadership San Juan Islands has begun recruiting for Class XVII, running from November 2025 through April 2026. Information and the application are available on our website. Candidates, from across the islands, will be selected based upon the following criteria: commitment to community involvement, evidence of interest in developing and using leadership skills and demonstrated involvement in the San Juan Islands. Space is limited to 20 participants.
We are hosting a series of open houses for alumni and interested candidates during the second week in June. This is a great opportunity to meet alumni from our previous 16 cohorts. Learn more about our program offerings, dates and available financial support. Light refreshments will be served.
Open houses are to be held from 4:30-6:30 p.m., and locations include Lopez Island Library on Monday, June 9; Emmanuel Parish Hall, Eastsound, on Tuesday, June 10; and Steve Hushebeck’s home, 285 Geneste St., Friday Harbor. A virtual Zoom session will be held on Friday, June 13, from noon to 1 p.m. Register on our website to receive the link.
Sessions provide an immersive countywide experience, helping participants develop facilitative leadership skills and an improved understanding of how local organizations, both public and private, work together in the islands. The six-month program includes 11 program days, including orientation, skill-building retreats, Challenge Days, graduation and Island-Focused Service Projects Day when participants deliver a small group project. In addition, successful candidates can earn six college credits through Skagit Valley College.
Diversity and accessibility are core values of Leadership San Juan Islands. LSJI intends for the cohort to include participants with varying backgrounds, ages, employment, ethnicity, professions and geography. Tuition is $795, plus a $50 application fee. Payment plans and scholarships are available. Find information and an application at www.lsji.org or contact 2026 Program Director Lee Taylor at 253-985-3128 or email director@lsji.org.
