Applications for the Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce’s Teen Leadership Class of 2023 are currently open to rising sophomores. 

The program’s mission is to “build and strengthen emerging young leaders with skills, knowledge and experiences that prepare them to be effective partners for positive change in the Greater Green Bay area.”

To accomplish this, they gather a group of sophomores to learn about government functions, well-being and leadership through team-building activities, community projects and discussions with peers.

Teen Leadership is spearheaded by the Greater Green Bay Chamber, which is also responsible for Leadership Green Bay, the Youth Apprenticeship program and the Golden Apple Awards. 

“The Chamber is excited once again to help our future leaders get connected to the community,” shared the Chamber’s vice president Eric Vanden Heuvel. “We are continually impressed with the talented students coming out of area schools.” 

The applications, which are due April 15, 2022, include information about the student’s demographic and three essay/short answer questions. 

Freshman Charlie Gerstner applied because he wanted to grow his “connections with CEO’s, owners of non-profits and political figures within the Green Bay area.”

“I also want to equip myself with more tools for better leadership,” he added.

Participating students miss one school day per month and need written permission from their school’s principal to do so.

They will also have to provide their own transportation to and from the venues, which will be held at various locations throughout Green Bay. 

The event promises to be an enriching, fortifying experience for all who attend. 

“We are honored to play a part in [the students’] development,” summarized Vanden Heuvel.