Applications are being accepted through May 25, for the Leadership Rutherford Class of 2013.

Selected individuals will begin the program with a retreat in September and attend monthly program days dedicated to topics of community interest from October through June.

“Leadership Rutherford is a personal development program designed to motivate participants to develop and enhance the quality of their leadership in addressing pertinent community needs,” said Leadership Rutherford Executive Director Stephanie Brackman. “It aims to help leaders prepare for voluntary responsibility, provide a practical and sophisticated understanding of major problems and opportunities facing Rutherford County, facilitate access and improve the communications network between emerging and current leaders and stimulate increased community participation and commitment.”

Leadership Rutherford is a program of the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce, and interested individuals can learn more and download an application online at www.rutherfordchamber.org or by contacting the Chamber at (615) 893-6565.

Applications must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 25. All applicants will be notified whether or not they were accepted into the program by June 22. A $1,000 financial investment, paid by the individual or the individual’s employer, is required to participate.

The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce seeks to promote economic development and a quality of life to benefit all residents of Rutherford County. Programs, events and services are offered to both members and non-members. The Chamber operates out of a main office on Medical Center Parkway in Murfreesboro, and branch offices in Smyrna and La Vergne. Learn more at www.rutherfordchamber.org.