I recently had the opportunity to attend the Gettysburg Leadership Institute, a three-day program that brings together local government professionals to explore leadership through the lens of one of the most pivotal battles in American history. It was a meaningful and thought-provoking experience that blended history, strategy, and self-reflection in a truly unique way.

Over the course of the program, we studied the leadership styles and decisions of key figures from the Battle of Gettysburg and discussed how those choices, good and bad, impacted the outcome of the battle. One of the more controversial examples was General Daniel Sickles, who decided to move his troops out of position without orders. His actions created major challenges for the Union Army, and while some argue it ultimately helped disrupt the Confederate advance, it raised important questions about communication, trust in leadership, and when (or whether) it’s appropriate to go against a directive.

In contrast, one of the most inspiring examples was Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain. As a former professor with no formal military training, Chamberlain demonstrated exceptional leadership at Little Round Top. Facing a desperate situation, he led a daring bayonet charge that helped hold the Union line. His story stood out to me as a reminder that leadership isn’t just about experience or authority; it’s about stepping up with courage, making decisions under pressure, and earning the trust of your team.

What made the experience especially powerful was how clearly the historical examples connected to our work in local government. We talked about communication breakdowns, adapting to changing circumstances, building strong teams, and leading during times of uncertainty—all things we deal with regularly. We also looked at how the town of Gettysburg, with only 2,000 residents, responded to the overwhelming aftermath of the battle. Their experience managing the impact of more than 51,000 casualties became a compelling case study in disaster response, resource management, and community resilience.

The Gettysburg Leadership Institute was more than a history lesson: it was a chance to reflect on the kind of leaders we want to be, and how we can apply timeless principles of leadership to the complex challenges we face today. It was a meaningful reminder that even in the most difficult situations, effective leadership can make all the difference.

Want to participate in this transformational leadership experience? Registration is open for the September 2025 Gettysburg Leadership Institute, taking place September 10-12, 2025. Register by September 1, 2025, to secure your spot! 

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