Access Class

Springfield, MO

Get up to speed with the Springfield community in our Access Class. Designed for area professionals, neighbors, SGF natives and transplants, bosses, volunteers, or young professionals, this crash course in the community is perfect for those who are new to the area or those looking to expand their professional connections. Participants will spend two days exploring the city, fostering connections with community leaders and discovering what they can do to impact the world right here locally.

Interested in joining the Access Class?

Scholarship Opportunity

Multicultural Business Association Access Class Scholarship

A United Way ARPA grant has generously provided an opportunity for Multicultural Business Association members and members of the BIPOC community to attend a Leadership Springfield Access Class in 2023 for only $25, a scholarship award value of $574.

The Access Class is a fast-paced two-day exploration of the community through the lens of the Community Focus Report. A cohort of area leaders of all ages and stages participate in experiential and engaging learning over the two-day class, designed to build community pride, empathy toward others, and citizens’ sense of belonging. Grant funds were awarded specifically to lift up members of the BIPOC community in our area. The Access Class agenda includes exciting sessions, speakers and tours of area businesses and industries. Transportation, meals, speakers, and materials are included. This unique professional and personal development opportunity includes one free year of Leadership Springfield alumni membership and all the alumni program benefits that come with it. Participants will spend two days exploring Springfield, fostering connections with community leaders, and discovering what they can do to impact the world right here locally.

As a Multicultural Business Association member, if you are interested in applying for a limited number of Access Class spots through this grant, please complete the form below by Friday, September 22, 2023. You will be notified through email of the status of your application by Friday, September 29, 2023.

Held over two business days, the Access Class agenda includes exciting sessions on area organizations and industries, presentations by area leaders, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. The cost for the class is $599 and covers all materials and meals. Scholarships are available if you need assistance paying for the course.

How Organizations Benefit

Enhance relocation efforts & increase employee retention by helping new leaders develop an instant community network

Facilitate enriched employee performance by increasing their awareness of Springfield & identifying areas for community engagement

Increase your organization’s visibility through new & valuable relationships

How class participants benefit

Gain direct exposure to local leaders & immediate access to a community network

Enjoy hands-on learning via an informative experience in the local Springfield community

Join 2,000+ Leadership Springfield program alumni & receive opportunities for on-going continuing education & network engagement

Strengthen your application for the highly competitive annual nine-month Leadership Springfield Signature Class program

Leadership Springfield values, engages and includes the rich diversity of constituents in our community with an intentional focus on both the demographic diversity of our community and fostering a culture that provides the opportunity to thrive and succeed as community leaders.