Cultivating and Inspiring Diverse, Passionate, Capable Leaders.

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Leadership with Purpose

Ventura County Leadership Academy connects and cultivates a diverse network of passionate, capable leaders through an immersion in both critical issues shaping Ventura County and opportunities for personal and professional growth. VCLA’s comprehensive program ignites awareness and inspiration, helping cohort members discover their individual pathway toward impacting our region.

Building A Community of Leadership, With You.

With your support, VCLA is able to cultivate diverse, inclusive leadership that has a unique impact on our region and business culture. It truly takes a village. Without our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and alumni, we would cease to exist. We are so grateful to you all. If VCLA has had a positive influence on your career, business culture, overall success or perspective - please consider giving back in whatever capacity you are able.

Pattie Braga

What to Expect as a VCLA Participant

A unique and engaging experience, Ventura County Leadership Academy brings an unmatched depth of knowledge and local leadership perspective. This program includes:

  • Ten Focus Sessions
    Topics such as p
    ublic safety, social services & healthcare, local government & the legislative process, education, housing & transportation, water & agriculture, economics, arts & culture, environment, infrastructure, and more.
  • Cohort Ice-Breakers and Community Building
    Get to know your fellow Cohort members
  • Leadership Training
  • Community Explorations
    Cohorts are divided into small groups and assigned a community to explore
  • Trip to Sacramento
  • Get Togethers with Cohort and Alumni
    Optional monthly happy hours and annual mixers
  • Graduation Ceremony
    Including certificates of commendation on behalf of VCLA and numerous elected officials

VCLA Objectives

CREATE

a leadership development program incorporating, business, social services, education, community, government, and cultural issues throughout Ventura County;

PROMOTE

the inclusion of diverse groups of individuals;

BROADEN

the awareness, understanding and appreciation of a variety of critical issues affecting life in Ventura County, through contacts with community leaders, and participation in workshops, field studies, and related programs.

QUOTE icon

"The most valuable thing I got out of my VCLA experience was the increased passion to serve my community. Ventura County is unique and has so much to offer. The leaders within the County work collaboratively to face challenges. As a leader in the County, it is critical that you be able to connect the dots. VCLA will help you do exactly that."

-Jeremey Shumaker

VCLA Cohort XXVI

Regional Director of Operations for Ventura/Santa Barbara/Riverside Counties
American Medical Response