Riverland Community College Training and Development and the Austin Area Chamber of Commerce invite Austin area residents to apply for the 2011-12 Leadership Austin program.

Leadership Austin is a community-based which provides participants with a comprehensive look at major aspects of our community. Participants learn about the area’s resources, values, strengths and challenges, and are encouraged to assume leadership roles in community affairs.

The program is college-accredited, and includes a 9-month series of all-day seminars. Curriculum topics include: individual leadership styles and roles, education, agriculture, public safety, local government, health and human services, business and economic development, quality of life and diversity. Sessions run September 2011 through May 2012 on the second Thursday of the month.

All residents of the Austin area may apply. A pool of about 20 candidates will be selected, representing a cross-section of the community reflecting Austin’s educational, political, social and cultural diversity.

Further information and application forms are available on the college and chamber websites (www.riverland.edu or www.austincoc.com). Printed brochures are also available at the Chamber office, 329 North Main Street. The fee for each participant is $699; scholarships are available to qualified applicants. Applications are due by June 1.