SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – Applications are now being accepted for those interested in being a part of the award-winning Leadership Saratoga program.
Sponsored by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, this popular program is dedicated to the development of leaders who will serve their communities today and in the future.
The purpose of Leadership Saratoga is to inform and educate members of the community who want to ensure its success by giving of their time, talents, energy and expertise. This is often in a volunteer capacity such as serving on a board of a non-profit organization, a board of education, a land use board or becoming an elected official. Since the program’s inception in 1985, more than 700 graduates have completed the program.
The 2026-2027 Leadership Saratoga program will run from September 2026 to May 2027. Program participants are engaged in a nine-month cohort with other participants where they explore team dynamics, leadership, creative problem solving, strategic planning, communications, board governance, development and quality of life, education systems, government and more. Insider tours and experiences, case studies and group service projects are also part of this dynamic development program.
“Participating in Leadership Saratoga has helped me learn and grow exponentially—both personally and professionally. The experiential learning and collaborative environment challenged me to think differently, build essential leadership skills, and expand my knowledge of the non-profit community in the Capital District. I’ve gained confidence and a deeper understanding of how leaders can help organizations grow and thrive.  This experience has been a powerful stepping stone for future leadership opportunities, and I’m truly grateful for the impact it has had on my commitment to continual personal growth and my ability to serve others in our community,” says Joyce M. Rice, Chief Operating Officer at The Anderson Financial Group.
The application period, including interviews, is open from April 1 through May 30, 2026. Advisory Board members from leading area companies and organizations help to review applications and conduct interviews for the program.
Members of the Advisory Board are Theresa Agresta - Culture Talk; David Collins - D.A. Collins Companies; Libby Clark - Law Office of M. Elizabeth Clark, Esq. P.C.; Matt D'Abate – Amsure; Aimee Dake - AIM Services; Carmine DeCrescente - DeCrescente Distributing; Maggie Fronk – Wellspring; Rajat Ghoshal - Polyset Company; Jaclyn Hakes - MJ Engineering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Land Surveying, P.C.; Chad Kiesow Stewart's Shops; Jason Lynch - Pallette Stone; Maire Masterson - Business for Good Foundation; and Amy Smith - Saratoga Arms Hotel.
Anyone interested in learning more about Leadership Saratoga or considering applying to be a member of the class of 2026-2027 can visit www.LeadershipSaratoga.org for additional information.

About the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce: Since 1918, the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce has been opening doors and closing deals for businesses throughout the Saratoga County community. Guided by a strong and sustainable vision, the Chamber leads the way in maintaining and strengthening a healthy business climate, initiating constructive community action, and creating a community where all can thrive.