Leadership Bend

The Bend Chamber and BendNEXT Foundation are pleased to announce the Leadership Bend Class of 2027, the newest cohort selected for one of Central Oregon's longest-running leadership development programs.

As Leadership Bend enters its 34th year, this diverse group of professionals will spend the next nine months exploring the complex issues shaping our region, engaging with community leaders and decision-makers, strengthening their leadership skills, and building relationships across the business, nonprofit, civic, and public sectors.

Since 1993, Leadership Bend has graduated 758 alumni who continue to make meaningful contributions to Central Oregon through business leadership, board service, volunteerism, civic engagement, elected office, and countless other leadership roles.

Congratulations to the Class of 2027. We look forward to seeing the impact this exceptional group will make in our community.

Learn more about this year's cohort: https://www.bendchamber.org/news/leadership-bend-class-of-2027-cohort-announced

Are you thinking of applying for Leadership Bend, or would you like to refer a colleague or friend? Please consider attending the May 28 informational session at 4:30 pm to learn more about the program application, level of commitment, graduation requirements and more. Share with interested parties!

LB Informational Session Learn About Leadership Bend + How to Apply

The way we work is changing - and the BEST teams are changing with it. Our sister program, Bend Emerging Talent is delighted to host national speaker, author and workplace strategist Lisa X. Walden for a high impact and engaging keynote presentation on May 14 at 4:30 pm. Details at the link below. Wherever you are in your career, you'll benefit from actionable insights to shift mindsets, strengthen communication and create environments where people and performance thrive! Networking afterparty with food and drink to follow at Mountain Burger in NWX. See you there?

ET Expert Lab Keynote Speaker In this lively, insight-packed session, you’ll learn how to create a more authentic, empowering workplace.

Incredible news! The Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund has awarded us a matching grant of $10,000! Help us make the match by contributing today and investing in the next generation of leaders.

Leadership and Workforce Development Match Give to our matching grant, supporting the Leadership Bend, NEXTUp Leaders and Bend Emerging Talent programs - and double your impact. Thanks to the Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund, every contribution will be matched, up to $10,000. 

A wonderful two days of connection and learning for the Class of 2026! Thank you to all the sponsors, speakers and supporters that make this annual retreat possible.

One last week to apply for the Leadership Bend Class of 2026. Share with interested parties - it's going to be another unforgettable year of learning, connection, reflection and action.

Leadership Bend Class of 2026 Application Please click the link to complete this form.

LB graduates had an educational and thought-provoking conversation with City of Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler this morning - our second annual "Breakfast with the Mayor." Thank you to Mayor Kebler, the City of Bend, Oregon Government and to all of our attendees. It's always wonderful to continue learning together!