What is ConvergeU?

ConvergeU is designed to identify, nurture and promote leaders in the Kankakee County area. The program will develop informed and committed leaders by providing participants with an understanding of the critical issues affecting Kankakee County and beyond. 

Candidates for ConvergeU are leaders from up-and-coming office associates to corporate management staff. Having a diverse class representing manufacturing, retail, healthcare, education, finance, and other sectors will deepen their knowledge of the area’s challenges and opportunities. Participants will work together and utilize their creativity and decision-making skills. 

ConvergeU…developing leaders, and fostering service 

ConvergeU Format

ConvergeU begins with a one-day retreat in the kickoff month, followed by seven full-day sessions (once a month). It is an interactive experience with the people and places that make the Kankakee County area special. Whether you are a life-long resident, new to the area, or have lived or worked here some time in between, this rewarding program is for you. Participants will know the community well; its history, its current issues, and its future direction.

This year of learning and experiences will broaden their exposure to business and community interaction and inspire volunteerism to future leadership roles. We pledge to provide you with experiences and knowledge that will open new doors of opportunity. 

ConvergeU Cohort 3 Details

Cohort 3 will begin with the Converge Retreat on Wednesday, September 4th. It will be all-day gathering beginning at 8:30am.

The October Learning Day for Cohort 3 will be at our Converge Conference (included with registration) on Friday, October 11th, 2024.

Our learning days will continue on Wednesdays, in November 2024 – April 2025 with a May celebration and awards lunch.

The ConvergeU Expectation

All sessions require your attendance and full participation. 

You will develop relationships with others in the class and work as a team. Upon successful completion of the program, you will be encouraged to volunteer in the community or serve on other community boards or committees. Further, our alumni will occasionally receive invitations for board or committee service from various organizations. Partner organizations will look to our alumni for their individual skills and knowledge they bring about the community through their ConvergeU experience. 

Enrollment

The ConvergeU class size is limited to 20 participants. 

The Selection Committee will review all applications, select the class and notify all applicants with additional details about the retreat and program. Cancellations are non-refundable. Tuition is $1200. 

Requirements for Acceptance 

• Demonstrate a commitment and motivation to serve your community through volunteerism, or committee and board service; 
• Have an interest in serving in volunteer or leadership roles and to help develop solutions utilizing your decision-making skills; 
• Possess the potential and willingness for leadership in community activities; 
• Be available to commit the time necessary to complete the entire program. 

Sponsorship

Your sponsor is your direct supervisor, board chair, or mentor if you are the owner or top executive of your company. Your sponsor will fully support your candidacy by allowing compensatory time to attend and participate in all ConvergeU activities including attendance at each monthly module. You and your sponsor will benefit by being personally involved in your leadership education and your sponsor will be invited to attend your ConvergeU graduation lunch.