Since 1982, more than 1,700 individuals have experienced our program and gone on to lead in our community both on the job and through volunteer service.

Founded in 1982

It all began with a $25,000 founding grant from Gannet, a $15,000 grant from Lilly Endowment, and the notion of two ambitious officers of the local Chamber of Commerce – Bob Griffiths and Mal Applegate.

Developing Future Leaders

Griffiths saw the need for a local community leadership development program and began recruiting other eager minded community leaders to assist in what is now Leadership Lafayette.

How it all Began

Originally called the Greater Lafayette Leadership Academy, the independent non-profit organization officially launched in 1982 with a class size of 30 students and a curriculum based on community awareness and leadership needs in multiple arenas.

Strengthening Our Community

As time went on, both the class size and curriculum experienced growth and developed into a higher functioning community development entity. With up to 60 annual Community Leadership Program participants and more than 1700 program alumni serving over 100 regional nonprofit organizations, Leadership Lafayette continues to make a huge impact on Greater Lafayette resulting in a real positive difference for our community.

For Generations to Come

Now, Leadership Lafayette continues to drive the development of our region and its individuals, utilizing experiential learning and promoting the importance that program participants represent the diverse fabric of our community and plan to give back through servant leadership.

  • Marianne Rose

    Class 24
    Former CEO, Community Foundation of Greater Lafayette, 2017 Distinguished Alumni Leadership Award Recipient

    "

    I am a proud graduate of Class 24 and in my role as CEO of the Community Foundation, I see other alumni of Leadership Lafayette everyday contributing their leadership skills to nonprofit organizations in our community. Since 1982, Leadership Lafayette has been helping prepare individuals to lead in service of others and benefit our shared quality of life.

    "
  • Bob Griffiths


    Leadership Lafayette Founder and Past Board President

    "

    Without question, Leadership Lafayette is a community asset that just keeps getting better. More than 1500 participants have now been part of the Leadership Lafayette experience, expanding their knowledge and appreciation or our great community. They have sharpened their skills and talents while becoming more involved in the many organizations and agencies that serve us all.

    "