Summer Leadership Program
An initiative to inspire the next generation of Lakelanders
Participants
Companies
Years
What is SLP?
The Summer Leadership Program is designed to professionally develop and further integrate Lakeland’s young professionals into the community through a 5-week session of local tours, insightful speakers, workshops, trainings, and networking. Participants learn from local and national leaders exploring a variety of skills-based topics to assist them as they develop into emerging leaders within their companies. Whether a life-long Lakelander or new-toLakeland, the program opens the eyes of participants to all that Lakeland has to offer for their quality of life from arts, culture and entertainment, volunteer opportunities, diverse industry sectors and more.
Where it all Started
The idea for Summer Leadership Program began when the LEDC visited Memphis, TN in 2007. The leaders in Memphis were encountering a problem with talent retention. College students and young adults would move to Memphis for internships and jobs but not grow roots in the city, making their time in Memphis short. The solution was a program which connected young professionals to each other, their employers, and the city. Participants fell in love with the city and found a desire to join the community.
The LEDC took the ideas they saw in Memphis and brought it back home to Lakeland. The first SLP was in 2008. 45 young adults signed up from 17 different companies. The program was an immediate success. Year after year companies and employees are excited to be involved in this dynamic program. In 2025 we will have hit 1,000 participants!
SLP Schedule 2025
Orientation
3 -5 pm at Catapult
The program kicks of with an orientation with the participants and their supervisor. There is a get-to-know you session in addition to expectation setting and program overview.
Servant Leadership & Community Service
7:45 am – 5 pm at Catapult
Day 3 is when we give back to the community. It is a hands-on day that highlights the power of servant leadership through meaningful volunteer work and community engagement.
Team Building
7:45 am – 5 pm at Catapult
Day 1 focuses on the key challenges and opportunites young professsionals face. Workshops will cover leading from any level and understanding your personality style to improve conflict resoltuion.
Economic Development & Entrepreneurship
7:45 am – 5 pm at Catapult
Day 4 explores the driving forces behind Lakeland’s economic growth and entrepreneurial spirit.
Quality of Life & Neighborhoods
7:45 am – 5 pm
Day 2 is about experiencing the unique charm and lifestyle that Lakeland has to offer, connecting local business owners, and getting insights into Lakeland’s neighborhoods and amenities.
Leadership Training
7:45 am – 5 pm at Catapult
Day 5 brings everything together with a workshop by nationally recognized leadership trainer Sam Davidson. We will conclude the session with a graduation ceremony at 4 pm where supervisors are encouraged to attend.
