Orientation: Class members meet in September as a group for the first time at a two-day retreat. Team-building exercises, thought-provoking leadership discussions and role playing help class members develop a "team" foundation that builds throughout the 10-month program.

Media & Communications: For their first session after orientation, class members walk through a number of different public and media relations scenarios. Participants work with the region’s most qualified conflict resolution consultants, leaders in the local media and communications experts to learn more about the role that media plays in our lives.

Education: Class participants are introduced to the educational system in Orange County through panel discussions. They are then given an opportunity to learn more about progressive programs and initiatives at the forefront of education around the state and the nation. Leaders in the Orange County educational arena facilitate stimulating, informative discussions during the Education session.

Government & Politics: Orange County’s legislative and municipal leaders teach the session on local politics. Class members have an opportunity to discuss top issues with elected officials and learn more about the daily roles and responsibilities of governmental leaders. Participants get a more in-depth view of the challenges that elected officials face when they break into small discussion groups with municipal and legislative leaders.

Economic Development: Class members learn first hand from local economic development professionals what it takes to attract a company to the County. The importance of economic development and a strong tax base is discussed, as well as issues facing the business community. Participants meet with leaders in the local business community – entrepreneurs, small business owners, corporate leaders and members of the agricultural community – to learn more about their daily challenges and how to successfully conduct business in Orange County.

Leadership: Orange County is home to the US Military Academy at West Point, the premier institute for leadership training in the nation. Leadership Orange has forged a strong relationship with the School of Behavioral and Organizational Leadership at West Point and, as such, class members spend the day on campus learning leadership skills and challenges from the nation’s top military and civilian personnel.

Health & Human Services: Roundtable discussions and presentations by Orange County’s top health and human services professionals highlight this powerful day of learning. Participants are exposed to a number of issues facing Orange County residents and healthcare professions, including funding constraints, Medicare issues and mental health concerns.

Quality of Life: Class members learn about the cultural, historical and recreational opportunities in Orange County. Tours of historical and cultural sites are part of the day’s activities, as well as a discussion of the challenges that confront the cultural community.

Environmental: As the fastest growing County in the State of New York, Orange County’s natural resources and infrastructure are top concerns for County and municipal leaders and residents. Water and sewer infrastructure are a top focus of the day, as well as discussions with environmental groups. A tour of one of Orange County’s wastewater treatment plants and a mock planning board meeting highlight this session.

Judicial System: Class Members get an inside look at the law enforcement, judicial, and correctional system in Orange County. Included are discussions with law enforcement officials, judges, public defenders and prosecutors. A tour of the Orange County Correctional Facility is included in this session.