COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What is LEADERSHIP UNIVERSITY?
   LEADERSHIP UNIVERSITY is an eight-month leadership program for high school juniors in Jackson-Madison County and is designed to expose young leaders to the various elements of leadership and its impact on a strong and dynamic community. It is a program of the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce and co-sponsored by Lambuth University, Lane College and Union University. The program began in 1999.
2. Who governs the program?
   The LEADERSHIP UNIVERSITY Board of Directors functions as the policy planning body and is responsible to the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. The program is coordinated by the Sr. Vice President of Business & Community Services at the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce.
3. How much does it cost?
   There is no cost to participate. LEADERSHIP UNIVERSITY only requires an investment in time, energy, and enthusiasm. Each participant is charged with the responsibility of working two hours for an assigned social service agency each month of the program. The remaining cost of the program is funded by the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce and co-sponsors, Lambuth University, Lane College and Union University.
4. How many participants will be selected each year?
   Approximately 40 class members will be selected from the public and private high schools in Jackson-Madison County.
5. How are the participants selected?
   Using the objectives of LEADERSHIP UNIVERSITY as a guide, the Leadership University Selection Committee will review all the applicants and conduct interviews on a designated day in April agreed upon with the 10th grade Guidance Counselor at each school. Students must have a minimum 2.0 GPA. After interviewing the finalists, the class of approximately 40 participants will be selected. All applicants will be notified in writing of the Selection Committee's decision. Applications will remain confidential.
6. How long will applications be accepted?
   The deadline for submitting applications is March 15th. Applications and reference forms should be turned in to your school guidance counselor by March 15th and the forms will be picked up by Leadership University personnel.
7. Will credit be given for participation?
   Your participation in this program will be a positive factor on your higher education application. At this time, school credit is not given for completion of the program. Any school days missed have been approved by the school administration as excused absences.
8. Will I receive a college scholarship when I complete the program?
   A scholarship program has been established at Union University, Lambuth University, Freed-Hardeman University, Lane College, Jackson State Community College, Tennessee Technology Center, West Tennessee Business College, University of Memphis and U. T. Martin for graduates of Leadership University attending their institution after graduation from high school.
9. Who do parents call if they have questions about the program?
   In order for LEADERSHIP UNIVERSITY to be a success, parents must feel comfortable and secure with their youth's participation in the program. Parents may call Judy Renshaw at the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce or talk with parents of students who have participated in the program from your school. A Parent Information Session is held at the beginning of each program year for interested parents.
10. Who do I call with questions?
    If you have any questions or concerns, please call Judy Renshaw at the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, 423-2200, Ext. 117.