The Fountain Hills Leadership Academy (FHLA) is still accepting applicants for its 2024 class. The deadline to apply is May 15.

This comprehensive experience is a community program offered through the non-profit I Love Fountain Hills and is designed to develop better-informed citizens, according to a press release.

The eight-week course is an immersion into the town’s governmental processes, civic and community services, public safety, and environmental management.

Approximately 15 people will be  selected for the FHLA Class VIII, which will run from mid-September through mid-November.

The course kicks off with a brief orientation and reception Sept. 12 and ends with a graduation ceremony Nov. 14. Classes take place Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Along the way, participants will meet community leaders and share ideas about the future of Fountain Hills.

Class participation fee is $250 per student and students must commit to help plan the following year’s program.

David Corlett, chair of the Fountain Hills Leadership Academy Board noted, “The 2024 Planning Committee has been hard at work organizing this year’s agenda. Each year, we look to build and improve on the previous year’s program, and this year’s sessions are shaping up to be some of the best yet.

“If you are looking to be part of a program that truly defines all that is great about Fountain Hills, then we encourage you to apply.”

The Leadership Academy challenges participants to bring forth their leadership skills to help improve the community. Those interested in learning more about Fountain Hills and getting involved are invited to apply online at ilovefountainhills.org/leadership-academy.

Local businesses are asked to become sponsors at a cost of $250. Sponsors can choose to be included in one of the class days, get to know the participants and share information about their businesses.