Curious about or Lead and Ignite programs?

Apply to our Lead program if you are an:

• Established leader in your profession eager to dive deeper into the Arlington community and region
• Civically engaged community leader looking to build relationships with other equally committed leaders
• Curious leader open to growing from exposure to a variety of voices, challenges, and opportunities, and use the experience to develop your plans for personal and professional impact.

Apply to our Ignite program if you are an: 

• Up-and-coming or emerging leader from the region who is eager to grow
• High-potential professional on a leadership track
• Community-minded leader who is seeking to make a difference in your community

The Lead and Ignite programs are application based. The Selection Committee determines which applicants will be invited to participate. The Committee seeks a diverse cohort of leaders who demonstrate a commitment to personal growth, civic engagement, and community impact. All applicants will receive notification of their status by June 10, 2026. A public press release will be issued in early July. 

The Lead program is once monthly from September through May. Classes will meet in Arlington on the following days from 8:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with two exceptions.

The Ignite program is once monthly from October through May. Classes will meet in Arlington on the following days from 12:00 – 5:00 p.m., with one exception.

Lead: The total tuition cost of $5,500 covers the monthly programs, one ticket for the Leadership Summit & Reception, and access to our alumni directory and ongoing alumni resources and networking opportunities.

Ignite: The total tuition cost of $3,000 covers the monthly programs, one ticket for the Leadership Summit & Reception, and access to our alumni directory and ongoing alumni resources and networking opportunities.

Leadership Center of Arlington encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of financial status.

We provide partial scholarships for small nonprofit and small business applicants, based on need and funds available. Scholarship requests are not a factor in the selection process.

Scholarship applications are due by Friday, May 22, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. (at the same time as the program applications). Scholarship applications will not be accepted after this date.

Members of the community are invited to apply by May 22. County employees must apply by May 11.

Lead Applications

• General application
• County employee application

Ignite Applications

• General application
• County employee application