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

525+
Program graduates since 2003 ... and counting!
120+
Companies who have enrolled at least one participant.
90+
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:
- Active Shooter Training
- Civic Responsibilities
- Community Awareness
- Crisis Communication
- Diversity Awareness
- Economic Development
- Fundraising
- Image & Volunteerism
- Introduction to Marketing & Branding
- Networking Skills
- Problem Solving & Decision Making
- Project Management
- Public Sector Leadership
- Public Speaking
- Real Colors Leadership Development
- Time Management
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.
- Tuition fee: $1,500
- June 1, 2022: Application deadline
- Sept. 1, 2022: Tuition payment due in full
- Sept. 15, 2022: Orientation session (full day)
- Sept. 16, 2022: Ropes course (full day)
- May 11, 2023: Project presentations and program graduation
Program history
- Year founded: 2003
- Organization status: 501(c)(3) nonprofit
- Number of graduates: 525+
- Organizations involved: 120+
- Collaborative community projects: 90+
