Community Leadership Service (CLS) Class of 2026 Application

Participation in CLS Greater Williamsburg requires a serious commitment of time and energy. Class participants need to be able to attend all scheduled events to participate in the program. As we receive more applicants than we can accommodate, those selected into the program need to commit to attend every session. By participating in CLS you will be rewarded by having gained a deeper understanding of the community and the areas where you can make a positive impact.

The CLS Board is seeking a cross-section of participants from the community who reflect the program’s values. Class size is limited to 18-20 participants. Due to class size, applicants not accepted for a particular class may reapply.

Application Requirements

In addition to this completed application form, submit your biography and a photograph.

* Personal biography - Share highlights of your career, plus anything else you want us to know about you (for example, accomplishments, volunteer service, hobbies, family). You may use a first-person or third-person point of view. There is a 400-word maximum. Biographies should be submitted as either an MS Word Document or a PDF (Portable Document Format).

* Photograph - Photo tips: Use a high-resolution image with a simple background. Be the only person in the picture, with your face taking 50-60% of the frame. Take a selfie or get someone else to take the photo. Photos can be submitted in JPEG (JPG) or HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) format.

All applications, biographies and pictures must be received by the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce no later than 5 p.m. May 30, 2025.

Class of 2026 Application for Participation

Name*

First NameLast Name

If selected for CLS, preferred First Name for Nametag (if different than above)

Example: William Smith is full name but uses Bill Smith

Address*

Street Address

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code

County*

Phone*

Cell number is best in case we need to reach you on class days.

Email*

example@example.com

Length of time living in the Greater Williamsburg area

Community and Volunteer Involvement

List the names of community or volunteer organizations (current or prior) you are involved in. Please include your role or responsibilities.*

List organizations or areas where you have an interest in serving as a new volunteer.*

General Information

What interests you about CLS Greater Williamsburg?*

What are you expecting to gain from participating in CLS Greater Williamsburg?*

How will you contribute to CLS Greater Williamsburg, should you be selected?*

What community issue(s) concern you?*

Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?*

How did you hear about CLS Greater Williamsburg? If a referral, to whom may we direct our thanks?*

Expectations

1. To certify completion of CLS Greater Williamsburg, a participant is expected to:

Meet & Greet Orientation

Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 1-5 p.m.

Meet your classmates to learn more about the CLS Program and what you will be experiencing.

Eight Full-Day Sessions

Tuesdays, January 20 through March 17, 2026, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

A semester Break is provided on February 17, 2026.

These sessions are packed full of presentations, panel discussions, and other interactive activities.

Program Debrief and Graduation

Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 1-3 p.m.

Join your classmates for a special CLS Program debrief, graduation and closing reception.

2. To certify completion of CLS Greater Williamsburg, a participant is expected to:

Agreements and Signature

I understand that failure to attend any full session (described in expectations above) may result in dismissal and forfeiture of tuition.*

I understand and agree to this commitmentI do not agree to this commitment

Tuition for CLS is $750. I understand if selected as a participant, I will pay the tuition by the September 19, 2025 due date.*

I understand and agree to this commitmentI do not agree to this commitment

A personal biography, up to 400 words, and a high-quality photo are required as part of the application process and are needed to accompany the application*

I understand and agree to this commitmentI do not agree to this commitment

Participants in CLS Greater Williamsburg may be photographed for promotional purposes. The images will be used on the CLS website or in promotional materials. Participants contact information will be shared with the class and may be published on the password protected CLS website.*

I understand and agree to this commitmentI do not agree to this commitment

Signature*

Hold and drag your keyboard mouse to create your signature.

File Upload *

Please submit your Biography and Picture