Leadership Academy for Public Service Takes a Hiatus
November 28, 2011 - Leadership Austin's Academy for Public Service is taking a hiatus. The program has been jointly presented by Leadership Austin and the Austin Area Research Organization (AARO). The organizations have decided to re-evaluate the Academy and its role in preparing individuals interested in running for elected office, managing a political campaign, or exploring the process behind the scenes.
"The Leadership Academy was originally created to give candidates running for public office a quick immersion into the campaign process and the rigors of an election," said Leadership Austin CEO Heather McKissick.
"While many people have participated over the years, we feel that this is the appropriate time to re-assess the program's purpose and effectiveness in that process. Collaborating with AARO's leadership, our Board of Directors decided that we should explore new opportunities to meet this important community need as partners."
The fall 2011 class will not be offered to allow AARO and Leadership Austin time to develop new approaches to help candidates assess, plan, and organize a political campaign.
"We have been extremely pleased to work with Leadership Austin over the years," said Clarke Heidrick, past President of AARO. "We look forward to finding new ways to partner with their board and staff. Together we would like to enhance voter turnout, and help prepare qualified candidates to run for local, regional or statewide elections."
The Leadership Academy for Public Service started in 2001. Approximately 250 individuals have participated in the program since its inception.
Follow Us