About Us

The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, sponsor of Leadership Saratoga, is dedicated to the development of leaders who will serve their communities today and in the future. 

Leadership Saratoga selects up to twenty-four individuals each year with demonstrated motivation, commitment and potential and provides them with additional skills, knowledge and networks to effectively serve in volunteer leadership capacities.

This award-winning program which started in 1985, has made its mark on Saratoga County.  Graduates serve on the Boards of Directors of 135 nonprofit organizations from Corinth to Clifton Park.  Sixty graduates have been elected to local Boards of Education, Town Boards, City Councils, the County Board of Supervisors, County Planning Board and various political committees. 

Participants will receive exposure to critical issues affecting life in Saratoga County as well as hands-on involvement in leadership development.  Class members meet the decision makers and community leaders who address not only facts, but perspectives, problems and potentials in very interactive sessions.

After graduation from the program, participants can become involved in an active Alumni Association.  The Association enables graduates to continue to make connections at informal gatherings, further their education in community leadership by attending seminars, and help raise funds for scholarships for future program participants.

Testimonials

"Leadership Saratoga is a great program because it provided me with a much deeper understanding of how our local communities work and greatly enhanced my connections to local organizations working to better our communities. As a Leadership Saratoga student, I had the privilege of working and bonding with a great group of intelligent, active, and community-minded individuals."
-Charles Wait, Jr., Class of 2012, Adirondack Trust Company

"My experience with Leadership Saratoga was enlightening, fun, empowering, and life changing. The best way to learn about this incredible program is to talk with alumni face to face. You will make life long connections who truly appreciate Saratoga County."
- Tracy Solarek, class of 2014, Informz

“I have always had an interest in getting involved in the community.  Leadership Saratoga gave me the opportunity to make the difference I am making today.  The Chamber’s program prepared me and opened up so many doors that I am doing exactly what I have wanted to do as a community volunteer leader.”
- Paul Loomis, Class of 2008, Gilbane Building Company 

“Leadership Saratoga offers candidates the unique opportunity to explore, understand and appreciate multiple facets of our Community.  Through this time proven process, we were inspired to positively affect change in the quality of life of those around us. “
- Shelly Amato, Class of 2007, Chief Financial Officer/Asst. Administrator, Wesley Community

“One of the most important moves in my personal and professional life was to experience the Leadership Saratoga program.  Valuable lessons, materials and friendships.”
- Lynn Farenell, Class of 2002

“Working with and leading others in a community, volunteer or nonprofit organization is a challenge!  I knew a lot about “military” leadership, but Leadership Saratoga provided me with new skills and knowledge to be effective in community based organizations.  I especially appreciated learning from others who approached issues and challenges with unique attitudes and perspectives.  I strongly recommend this outstanding program.”
- Chuck Phillips, Class of 2000, Board Trustee, Saratoga Springs City School District

“Leadership Saratoga has transformed our board.  Graduates join the board with enthusiasm, an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of board service and have shared language and vision that allows them to work effectively with other board members and confidently assume leadership roles on the board.”
- Maggie Fronk, Executive Director, Wellspring