The LDA Program

The Leadership Development Academy of Rock County is an opportunity to learn about our local history, economy, arts and government. Realize your potential to make a difference in your community!

About LDA

The Leadership Development Academy was founded in 2003 by a group of public- and private-sector leaders and organizations who saw a need for leadership training and community engagement in order to make Rock County a better place to live, work, and play.

Our Mission

To inspire leaders to build and strengthen our community.

Our Vision

To be a premier leadership organization that will empower leaders to create a better place to live.

Learn more

Leaders: Apply now
Companies: Become a sponsor
Organizations: View our past projects

$100,000+

Invested back into the community in the past 5 years.

600+

Program graduates since 2003 ... and counting!

125+

Companies who have enrolled at least one participant.

100+

Completed projects, helping improve our communities.

97%

Graduates who recommend the LDA program.

Guiding Principles & Core Values

Leadership

We provide excellent learning opportunities to continuously strengthen our community.

Teamwork

We create a fun environment that teaches organizational and communication skills through networking and mentorship.

Excellence

We value individual initiative and innovation driven by quality, vision and results.

Awareness

We believe in bringing attention to the diversity of the community.

Integrity

We value developing respectful and responsible leaders.

Diversity

We value and respect a diverse organization that promotes unity.

Without a doubt, LDA has awarded me the pleasure to work with talented, passionate, and engaging leaders here in Rock County. Connecting with all the awesome people in this program has been the best part of the experience, as well as collaborating with them to make our community work better.

Nathan Fuller

LDA Class of 2016-17

Curriculum overview

Leadership Development Academy participants experience formal leadership training, extensive Real Colors development, stress management, self-awareness as a leader, enhanced networking, expanded community exposure and involvement, and team building with a final team project.

Topics covered during sessions:

Change Management
Civic Responsibilities
Coaching & Mentorship
Community Awareness
Crucial Conversations
Diversity Awareness
Economic Development
Fundraising
Introduction to Marketing & Branding
Networking Skills
Problem Solving & Decision Making
Project Management
Public Sector Leadership
Public Speaking
Real Colors Leadership Development
Trauma-Informed Training

Important dates & info

Sessions are a full day, once a month, for nine (9) months. The first week in September requires two days; one for orientation and one for a ropes course retreat.

Program history

Meet the facilitator

Jamie Karns was named the Executive Director and Program Facilitator of the Leadership Development Academy of Rock County on Aug. 1, 2022. She is passionate about the organization's mission.