The Rowan County Chamber of Commerce announced that it is now taking applications for the 2016-2017 Leadership Rowan Class.

For 23 years, the Leadership Rowan program has ensured that the community’s most influential and esteemed leaders are knowledgeable about issues, well networked and passionate about the success of the area.

“We are extremely proud of the history and success of Leadership Rowan with over 530 graduates of the program,” said Dustin Wilson, of Chick-fil-A, the steering committee chairman.

Leadership Rowan is a transformational experience for both the participants and the organizations they serve. Class members commit one day a month to exploring the community and discovering what makes it distinctive, including government, education, business, human needs and the arts. Throughout the nine-month program, participants go on exclusive tours and have hands-on experiences, all with area leaders who take on the community’s biggest challenges every day.

Armed with new knowledge, connections and perspective, Leadership Rowan graduates are prepared to take their places as effective community leaders.

Here’s what this year’s class had to say about the program:

“People should apply for Leadership Rowan to receive the real Rowan experience. There is so much available in Rowan County most people do not realize exist,” said Dr. Amy Susong with Livingstone College.

“It gives individuals a unique perspective of Rowan County, often times a look behind the scenes, of what makes Rowan County tick. And also, what makes it unique. It is an opportunity to make relationships and connections with people you may otherwise never have an opportunity to meet,” said Bob Cartner, Chandler Concrete and Building Supply.

“Leadership Rowan is an excellent way to learn more about Rowan County. I have found that Rowan County is full of history, entertainment opportunities and great people. Additionally, the networking opportunities become endless. Not only are you able to engage with your teammates, but also business men and women throughout the county,” said Emilie Scharf, Partners in Learning.

“I can’t imagine being an integral part of a community without doing Leadership,” said Marian Walters, Novant Health Foundation.

Many of the most dynamic leaders from all fields apply each year for the nine-month experience and only 25 are selected to build a class representative of the community.

Applications are open through May 27. The class will begin in August and conclude in May 2017. Complete program and application details are available at http://www.rowanchamber.com/pages/LeadershipRowan1/. For additional information, contact the Rowan Chamber at 704-633-4221 or cdeese@rowanchamber.com.