Leadership DeSoto is a program coordinated by the DeSoto County Economic Development Council to inform future leaders of the needs and challenges facing DeSoto County and inspire them to utilize the resources available to them to make a difference. For over thirty years, Leadership DeSoto has helped leaders become involved in performing community service and improving the quality of life in DeSoto County.

Candidates are nominated by organizations, employers or individuals. Candidates may apply on their own.  Candidates are expected to complete a lengthy application.  A selection committee will review each application. Participants will be chosen based on the Candidate’s community involvement, leadership capabilities, and potential in their respective fields.

The selection committee will choose no more than thirty men and women.

The tuition fees start at $950, depending on the yearly structure of the program. Participants are expected to secure their own funding. However, employers, sponsors or other involved organization are often willing to assist with this expense.

Leadership DeSoto is a seven-month program that gives participants insight into the resources of the community by offering sessions in Leadership, Economics, Education, Legislative, Healthcare, Local Government (city, state and county) and Community Service.

The first session in November is a full day retreat that allows Participants an opportunity to meet and learn team-building skills. The remaining six one- day sessions cover topics from experts in diverse fields that allow the Participants to gain insight and a better understanding of the needs of the community.  The program is concluded with a Graduation ceremony in May.

Participants also engage in a group project to address issues and needs facing our Community. This opportunity allows Participants a hands-on experience in making a difference in our Community.

Link for application to apply: https://forms.microsoft.com/r/FaLnWnnwUM


Board of Trustees
2022-2023

Robert CarterRenasant

Ravonda Griffin –  Perry Griffin, PC

*McKinley Hodges— City of Olive Branch

Jeremy Hurst—Southern Bancorp Bank

Justin Jaggers— Northcentral EPA

Matthew Kelso Edward Jones

Rob Laster – VRC Companies, LLC

Addison Lawrence—Citizens National Bank

Bree Nolan – Civil-Link, LLC

Chad Payton—Atmos Energy

Chad Robertson – Newlyweds Foods

Kat Sturgis – Helen of Troy

*Chair

Click on the image to download the PDF.

Click on the image to download the PDF.