Leadership Hancock County: Building the Leaders Who Shape Our Community
Strong communities don’t happen by chance—they’re built by people willing to step up, get involved, and lead.
For nearly three decades, Leadership Hancock County has been doing exactly that. Since its launch in 1996, the Hancock Chamber’s premier leadership development program has graduated more than 500 professionals who have gone on to serve on nonprofit boards, lead businesses, volunteer in their communities, and help shape the future of Hancock County.
Leadership Hancock County is more than a leadership class. It’s an opportunity to experience the county from a new perspective. Throughout the year, participants meet the people, organizations, industries, and agencies that keep Hancock County moving forward. From economic development and education to healthcare, public safety, tourism, local government, and NASA’s Stennis Space Center, each session offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and opportunities facing our community.
Just as valuable as the curriculum are the relationships formed along the way. Each class brings together professionals from businesses, nonprofits, industry, education, healthcare, and government, creating a network that often lasts well beyond graduation. Those connections continue through the newly established Leadership Hancock Alumni Association, giving graduates even more opportunities to stay engaged and invest in the community’s future.
The program is open to individuals who live or work in Hancock County and are committed to making a difference. The selection committee looks for applicants who demonstrate leadership potential, represent a broad cross-section of the community, and are ready to dedicate their time to both the program and future community involvement.
Applications for the 2026–2027 Leadership Hancock County class are open through July 31. The program fee is $595, and scholarships may be available.
Whether you’re an emerging professional looking to grow your leadership skills or an established leader ready to deepen your impact, Leadership Hancock County offers an experience that will change the way you see your community—and your role in shaping its future.
For more information or to apply, CLICK HERE or call us at (228) 467-9048.