“Leadership Mac is a window of opportunity to discover hidden gems in the city of McMinnville and surrounding area. These gems vary from people you have not met to touring places you had no idea existed. Leadership Mac is an investment worth pursuing on a personal and professional level. One of my favorite days took place at a challenge course. I got to meet new people and grow in trust rather quickly as we had to rely on each other to successfully complete the course as a team. I am absolutely thankful to have been sponsored by MV Advancements to be part of the 2022 graduating class. I strongly recommend that everyone enrolls at least once.”  – Beto Reyes (2022 graduate)

“Use your chamber membership as a jumping off point to connect you to other people and organizations in the community.  The Chamber Leadership Class is a great way to do this.  In my chamber leadership class, 23 years ago, were people who would later rise into leadership roles in both local government and business.  The class is a great way to meet current and future leaders.”  – Sam Justice (1994 graduate)

“I had no idea how many not for profits and service organizations need local community support. I am more apt to volunteer my time now that I know about them. – Luke Foster (2022 graduate)

We asked the graduates! “Once the program ends, what will you take with you?” Here’s what we heard!

“The connections and relationships gained throughout the program will last a lifetime.” – Jamie Howe (2022 graduate)

“Exposure to places I have never seen or been before in and around McMinnville, that I am now so much more knowledgeable as to what is here, and where to find it.” – Beth Barnes (2022 graduate)

Developing leaders, building community and making connections. Leadership MAC is a 10-month interactive study program devoted to preparing business people to successfully meet the challenges facing our community. Program runs March – December 2025 meet the second Wednesday of each month. Session days run from 9am to 5pm.

The Impact

It is our belief that everything begins with leadership. McMinnville in itself is a very special place in Oregon that continues to grow. Like all areas with growth, you face issues that can become increasingly more complex and the need for leadership is greater than ever.

We often ask ourselves who will “pass the torch” and continue to build upon what was planted by our pillars before us? Leadership MAC educates committed participants on the unique challenges, opportunities, and resources in our community, allowing one to become part of the future as a more informed and engaged citizen.

After the ten-month program is complete, Leadership MAC alumni become community trustees, moving into roles as nonprofit board members, elected officials, civic committee members and more. With over 900 alumni, they know change and opportunity happens through action, and the list of accomplishments of Leadership MAC alumni is long.

The Leadership Mac program is composed of 30+ individuals who meet the second Wednesday of each month.  Program members will learn how the community works from the inside out, by listening to a variety of perspectives. Each month, participants will embark on a variety of presentations and tours from community leaders and decision-makers to learn about leadership from people who make things happen.

Topics explored:

• Teamwork & Trust (Challenge Course) March 12, 2025
• Human Services April 9, 2025
• Travel & Tourism May 14, 2025
• Healthcare June 11, 2025
• Business & Industry July 9, 2025
• Basic Services August 13, 2025
• Government September 10, 2025
• Education October 8, 2025
• Public Safety November 12, 2025
• Culture & History December 10, 2025

The program aims to develop dedicated citizens, informed problem solvers, and creates responsive leaders! Participants will gain new business contacts and build community relations. Participants will get to be involved in hands-on community service projects in addition to learning about businesses and organizations that impact our community.

For more information on how to enroll or participate in Leadership MAC, contact Rhonda Pope at the Chamber office (503) 472-6196 rpope@mcminnville.org

Program runs March – December and is held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. Session days run from 9am to 5pm.

To apply for the 2025 program, please complete the application form and return it to the McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce OR submit the online application below. If mailing, please enclose payment or request an invoice.

Tuition includes:

• Logistical arrangements
• Materials
• Presenter/speaker fees
• Graduation celebration

$750 for Chamber members/ $850 for non-Chamber members (Credit Cards Accepted). Tuition is non-refundable.

Please email rpope@mcminnville.org with your program questions.