ORGANIZATIONAL MILESTONES

1998

Leadership Arlington launches as an initiative of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce as an independent 501(c)3.

Founder, Betsy Frantz, named President and CEO.

1999

In May, the 32 member inaugural class graduates.

2002

Leadership Arlington debuts its website, allowing members to view the membership directory online and register for events.

2003 - Five Year Anniversary

Youth Program launches.

2008 - Ten Year Anniversary

On Board training launches.

2010

Board of Regents adopt a set of values, which include ethics, leadership, community building, vision, impact, and learning.

Young Professionals Program launches.

2013 - Fifteen Year Anniversary

2016

Leadership Arlington transitions its name to the Leadership Center for Excellence (LCE). The Signature Program is renamed Leadership Arlington.

The Leadership Center for Excellence is awarded the Volunteer Arlington contract by the Arlington County Government.

2018 - Twenty Year Anniversary

Volunteer Arlington, a program of the Leadership Center for Excellence, hosts its first MLK Day of Service with more than 700 community members volunteering on that day.

Board of Regents name Karen Coltrane as the new President and CEO.

2020

The Leadership Center for Excellence navigates the COVID-19 pandemic, continuing to run leadership programs virtually and offering emergency management support to the community through Volunteer Arlington.

2021

Board of Regents name Lisa Fikes as the new President and CEO.

Board of Regents adopt a revised mission, β€œTo connect, develop, and inspire leaders for personal growth, civic engagement, and community impact.”

2022

Board of Regents adopt a 3-year strategic plan and revise bylaws to move from a dues-based membership model to an alumni model. Bylaws also reflect a name shift from Board of Regents to Board of Directors.

2023 - Twenty Five Year Anniversary

Board of Directors adopt a revised vision and set of values.

2024

The Leadership Center for Excellence transitions its name to the Leadership Center of Arlington.