Welcome
Let me start off by thanking you for your interest in EO’s inaugural leadership academy. I am sure you have a few questions, which likely include: What is it? Why are we doing it? How can I participate?
So, here are some answers:

What is it?
The EO Leadership Academy is a three-and-a-half-day, advanced leadership learning program that focuses on the types of leadership and skills needed for entrepreneurs to be an effective leader. 

Why are we doing it? 
Our goal is to provide EO’s top leadership with an enhanced philosophical and skills-based orientation of leadership that all members can employ to the benefit of their peers, businesses and communities. 

How can I participate? 

• Who:  This conference is for 25 successfully chosen applicants
• A potentially successful applicant would be a member who: 
• Is in good standing and compliant with all EO Global bylaws
• Has demonstrated multiple years of progressively more successful and responsible leadership in EO
• Has demonstrated leadership within their community
• Is recommended by EO Global membership and staff
• Where: The conference will be in Washington, D.C.
• When: 3-6 December 2008
• Cost: US$500, plus airfare, ground transportation and incidentals. 
• What is covered: Room, meals, conference materials

It is our intent to foster development of leadership throughout our Global membership and within our professional staff. An ideal mix of the 25 participants would include two members from each of our five regions, the three newest Global board members, five members of our professional staff and seven additional members who are top scored. 

The only way to ensure we have good representation from each region is if the best of the best from each of our regions pursue their passion for leadership in EO and apply for the EO Leadership Academy. As this is our inaugural class, there will be additional EO Global board members to assure that our entire top leadership has this shared experience. 

Personally, my own EO leadership opportunities and experiences continue my personal growth. I am confident that those of you who chose to pursue this opportunity will gain valuable experience, regardless of the outcome. For those that are chosen, I am confident you will embark on an opportunity of a lifetime. 

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to e-mail me.

Sincerely

Erick W. Slabaugh
EO Leadership Academy Chair