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Youth Institute

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PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Leadership Geauga County’s Youth Institute is a two-week summer program running from June 15 to June 25, designed for rising high school juniors and seniors to develop leadership skills and explore career opportunities. Meeting on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, participants will engage in personal strength discovery, career exploration, and behind-the-scenes tours across various community sectors. The program also includes a one-day mentorship experience, allowing students to shadow a professional in a field of their choice. This immersive experience helps young leaders grow, connect with community leaders, and gain valuable insights into their future paths.

Application Deadline: April 30, 2026

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PROGRAM DETAILS

Through the Leadership Geauga Youth Institute two-week program, class members make unique connections in Geauga County, meet people driving community growth, enhance their leadership skills and develop close bonds with other young leaders.

During the Youth Leadership Institute, class members will:
  • Improve interpersonal skills and increase confidence through the completion of the CliftonStrengths assessment, and focused team-based activities.
  • Interact with local business, government, and community leaders, which many times leads to internships or shadowing opportunities.
  • Participate in behind the scenes tours of some of Geauga’s businesses and organizations.
  • Understand the importance of diversity and work with students from various ethnic, economic, and social backgrounds.

CURRICULUM

Students will also complete and go through a guided CliftonStrengths workshop. We want students to know and apply their unique strengths to be more thriving and engaged in school and on teams. This is a highlight of the program for students who report higher levels of confidence from learning how their unique strengths can help them be better students and leaders.  

Participants examine: Human Service offerings, Health and Safety systems, Government interactions, Business types, and Agricultural diversities. This allows for new connections and expanded learning in team settings.

2026 PROGRAM CALENDAR

Each class day runs from approximately 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and includes breakfast and lunch.

Program Criteria

Class participants attend from every school in the community and must either live or attend school in Geauga County. Students need to apply as rising juniors or seniors to participate.

APPLICATION PROCESS & FEES

The cost to participate in the program is $300 and is inclusive of all program materials and supplies. LGC has a limited number of scholarships to award to those candidates who have a demonstrated need.

A note on scholarships:
In cases where the full cost of tuition is a burden for the individual, a limited number of scholarships are available. To be considered for a scholarship, simply fill out the scholarship request, in as much detail as possible, in the application.

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