The Lewis County Leadership Academy is a leadership development program that immerses participants in non-profits and community issues through ten full day sessions that run from September through May, with graduation in June. The curriculum enables participants to develop their leadership capabilities, build strong relationships and encourages involvement in effecting positive change in the community. The program was developed to teach and cultivate new non-profit and community leaders, and to help move those participants into important positions within our community.

The Leadership Academy was designed by county leaders and is organized and coordinated by the Lewis County Chamber of Commerce. The curriculum includes a day long retreat where the new class has the opportunity to get to know each other and to learn about the concepts of group dynamics and individual leadership skills within a group setting. During the course the class will participate in discussions with recognized authorities, site visits, and community concerns in education, government, not-for-profit organizations, agriculture, history, economic development and supporting our Fort Drum troops. Throughout the year, the class learns critical skills, such as collaboration, visioning, and creative problem solving in addressing the needs of the community.