Published June 11 2013
If you live or work in Bellevue and have an interest in learning more about your community, you are invited to join the inaugural Bellevue Essentials leadership class. The City of Bellevue will host an eight-week leadership class designed to provide a general overview of the inner workings of city government and a new on-ramp for emerging leaders who may want to step into broader public service. No prior leadership experience is necessary to participate.
Bellevue Essentials will launch on Sept. 25, with eight weekly Wednesday evening sessions and one Saturday tour day. The primary goal is to help participants understand the structure and operations of city government in many arenas. Participants will have opportunities to meet with neighborhood leaders, decision makers, elected officials and community and nonprofit leaders.
Sessions will highlight areas such as history, neighborhoods, parks and community services, planning, budget, transportation, arts and cultural diversity. A variety of learning tools, including speakers, panels, interactive exercises, site visits and networking opportunities will create an interesting and dynamic learning environment.
Bellevue Essentials is designed for emerging leaders focused on learning more about their local community and engaging at the neighborhood or city level. Bellevue Essentials will have open enrollment, but will give preference to applicants who are new to public service and who represent geographic diversity across Bellevue. The initial class will be limited to 30 participants to ensure a quality experience.
Applications are due by Aug. 1. Applicants will be accepted based on the following:
- Identification as emerging leaders;
- Geographic diversity;
- Personal goals of participation in program; and
- Date of application
Bellevue Essentials tuition is $95 per participant, with financial assistance available. Tuition includes all classes, materials and a light meal at each session.
To request a simple one-page application or to recommend a candidate, please contact Julie Ellenhorn, Neighborhood Outreach, 425-452-5372 or jellenhorn@bellevuewa.gov.