Vicksburg-Warren Chamber accepting applications for Leadership Vicksburg Program

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) —  The Vicksburg-Warren Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 Leadership Vicksburg program, a nine-month leadership development initiative designed to equip emerging and established leaders with the knowledge, skills, and relationships needed to strengthen Vicksburg and Warren County. Applications are currently open, and the deadline to apply is July 31, 2026. 

For more than 30 years, Leadership Vicksburg has served as one of the community’s premier leadership development programs, helping participants gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Vicksburg-Warren County while developing meaningful solutions through collaboration and civic engagement. The program is designed to transform community members into community leaders through hands-on learning, networking, and service.

Participants will begin the program with an orientation and team-building retreat before meeting monthly throughout the nine-month experience. During the program, participants will visit local businesses, organizations, and government entities that serve as the backbone of the community and economy. 

A cornerstone of the program is the development and implementation of a community impact project. Working in teams, participants identify a challenge or opportunity within the community and develop a solution that can create lasting positive change. Past projects have included a community events mobile app, an Adopt-a-Street program, coding resources for students, and a business resource guide for entrepreneurs. These projects not only address community needs but also demonstrate the power of collaboration among local leaders. 

To support their success, participants will receive leadership instruction based on Franklin Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, presented by leaders from the Vicksburg Warren School District. In addition, project managers from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Vicksburg District will provide instruction on project management principles, equipping teams with the tools necessary to plan and execute their community projects. These experiences provide participants with practical leadership and project execution skills that can be applied both professionally and within the community. 

“Leadership Vicksburg is one of the most impactful investments we can make in the future of our community,” said Pablo Diaz, Executive Director of the Vicksburg-Warren Chamber of Commerce. “This program brings together leaders from diverse industries and backgrounds, challenges them to think critically about the future of Vicksburg and Warren County, and empowers them to create solutions through action. The relationships formed and the projects completed through this program continue to strengthen our community for years to come.” 

Mayor Willis Thompson emphasized the importance of developing civic-minded leaders. “Strong communities are built by individuals who are willing to step forward, get involved, and help solve problems,” said Thompson. “Leadership Vicksburg provides participants with a unique opportunity to learn how our community functions, identify ways that things can be improved, and make a lasting contribution by implementing their ideas in the way of community projects. The City of Vicksburg is proud to support a program that supports leadership development as a way to continuously strengthen our community.” 

Dr. Kelle Barfield, President of the Warren County Board of Supervisors, highlighted the value of collaboration and community engagement. “Leadership Vicksburg demonstrates what can happen when talented individuals come together around a common purpose,” said Barfield. “Participants gain valuable insight into the organizations, businesses, and agencies that serve our citizens every day, while also identifying opportunities for growth and improvement. The community projects developed through this program leave a lasting impact and help move Warren County forward.” 

Leadership Vicksburg is open to professionals, business owners, nonprofit leaders, public servants, and individuals who are passionate about making a difference in Vicksburg and Warren County. In addition to leadership development and community engagement, the program offers extensive networking opportunities, allowing participants to build lasting relationships with fellow leaders. Applications for the 2026-2027 Leadership Vicksburg cohort are available online. 

The application deadline is July 31, 2026. For more information or to apply, visit the Leadership Vicksburg page https://vicksburgusa.com/chamber-of-commerce/programs/leadership-vicksburg, or contact Chris Rials at the Vicksburg-Warren Chamber of Commerce at 601-636-1012 or crials@vicksburgchamber.org.