Tampa, FL – Recruitment has officially begun for the 54th class of Leadership Tampa. This morning, the nation’s third oldest leadership program of its kind went live with online interest form. The Tampa Bay Chamber will host 4 information sessions in 3 weeks, plus the annual Spring Fling for potential LT applicants and members of the Leadership Tampa Alumni association on March 27 at ZooTampa. The flurry of activity is designed with one thing in mind: build the LT Class of 2025.
“What you will learn about Tampa and ways you can make a difference are invaluable,” said Kerry O’Reilly, Chair of LT ’25. The Tampa Bay Times Executive is stepping into the leading role nine years after his own LT experience in the Class of 2015. “You’ll build a network that will be there for you for your highs and lows,” he added.
Affectionately dubbed #LTFamous years ago by alumni, waves of participants dot the leadership landscape in the Tampa Bay region and beyond. The program, which is exclusive to the Tampa Bay Chamber, has served 2,750+ professionals to date. On the national stage, they include U.S. Space Command’s Chief of Installations & Infrastructure Irvin Lee (LT 2004), Detroit Tigers’ Vice President Josh Bullock (LT 2012), PODS’ Vice President General Counsel Lori Bagett (LT 2010), Senior VP of Quest Corporation of America Jill Cappadoro (LT 2004) and U.S. Special Operations Command Deputy Chief Brenda Khoury. Closer to home, LT grads include University of South Florida President Rhea Law (LT 1991), Tampa Mayor Jane Castor (LT 2000), Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw (LT 2017), Tampa Fire & Rescue Chief Barbara Tripp (LT 2020), Hillsborough County Schools Superintendent Van Ayres (LT 2019), and Coca Cola Beverages of Florida’s VP of Security Eric Ward (LT 2016).
“If you believe you’re too busy or not established enough to participate, you’re not alone. Every LT member likely starts with either or both of those concerns but once they graduate, they realize the rewards make the sacrifice and risk worthwhile," explained O'Reilly, “If you’ve ever considered participating in Leadership Tampa, now is the time to learn what it’s all about. This 90-minute session could start you down a professional path that could change your life."
The Chamber has four information sessions for applicants to choose from. The in-person sessions are schedule for April 5 (10:30AM) and April 16 (3:30PM). The virtual sessions are scheduled for April 10(5:30PM) and April 22(8:30AM).
Kerry O'Reilly's Favorite Photo from LT '15: This Drum Circle - "It's significant to me because it represents the many new experiences you have in Leadership Tampa, some that will push you slightly outside of your comfort zone. These experiences build unity among you and your classmates, one you will cherish.”