The mission of the Leadership North Carolina Program is to inform, develop and engage committed leaders by broadening their understanding of and involvement in issues and opportunities facing our state. The program is aimed at persons who have demonstrated community and professional leadership experiences. Six monthly, two-day sessions give class members a broader understanding of the state, with a focus on issues in the topical areas of: Economic Development, Education, Environment, Government, and Health and Human Services. Participants learn about the critical issues in these areas through discussions with top officials of the state, professionals in the areas, field trips and experiential activities. The program cultivates a network of citizens with diverse backgrounds and experiences who represent the many geographic areas of the state and who are committed to volunteer service. Characteristics of a successful applicant include: commitment, motivation, and interest to serve the state; demonstrated voluntary leadership in community affairs; desire and willingness to seek key volunteer and/or appointed leadership roles; an occupational commitment to remain in the state; and long-term commitment to play a personal role in helping to shape North Carolina's future. Participants must have the full support of their employer. Attendance at each session is expected; those who fail to fulfill the attendance requirements are asked to withdraw. Attendance at the full Orientation Session is mandatory; the remaining five sessions each consist of 5 "segments" ( morning and afternoon of both program days, plus the main class dinner ) for a total of 30 segments during the year. Participants missing more than six segments are withdrawn from the program - there are no excused absences. Once a participant has accepted an offer of admission to the program and paid tuition, there are no refunds for any reason.