The ICMA Gettysburg Leadership Institute is back and accepting applications for its next cohort, taking place September 10–12, 2025. This premier professional development opportunity draws powerful leadership lessons from the Battle of Gettysburg, connecting historic decisions and strategies to the real-world challenges faced by today’s local government leaders.

Through immersive sessions and historical exploration, participants examine leadership on and off the battlefield, translating those insights into practical strategies for modern governance.

This intimate, high-impact program brings together a select group of senior local government managers to focus on personal leadership, organizational effectiveness, and the enduring lessons of history.

Hear from Past Participants

Gettysburg Leadership Institute alumni share how the experience shaped their leadership journey:

“I found the ICMA Gettysburg Leadership Institute to be thoroughly educational and enjoyable. There was a great mix of historical facts, battlefield knowledge, and leadership applications in a small enough group to get to exchange ideas and hear different perspectives in an environment much better than a classroom or conference hall. I highly recommend the program for anyone looking to further build or refine their leadership capacity.”

Matt Efird, ICMA-CM, assistant town manager, Hillsborough, North Carolina, USA

“I found it fascinating how the battlefield guide and the facilitator were able to relate the important decision-making and struggles of Civil War leaders 162 years ago to being a current leader in local government.  I took so much away from this training.  This was the most impactful leadership development course I have ever attended.  As a young police chief, I could not recommend this training enough!”

Ronald L. Eveland, chief of police, Geneva Police Department, Geneva, New York, USA

“Attending the Gettysburg Leadership Institute was an inspiring and formative experience. Set against the historic backdrop of Gettysburg, the program offered not only powerful lessons in leadership and decision-making but also a profound appreciation for the values of courage, integrity, and service. The engaging sessions challenged me to examine my own leadership style, build stronger connections with colleagues across the country, and reflect on how historic moments of crisis and resolve can shape modern governance. I’m committed to translating the insights I gained into real, positive impact within my community.

Phillip L. Crowell, Jr., ICMA-CM, city manager, Auburn, Maine, USA

“My time at the ICMA Gettysburg Leadership Institute was truly transformative—without question, the most impactful leadership training I’ve experienced in my 30 years in the field. What set this experience apart was how deeply the lessons connected to my everyday work as an assistant county manager. The training didn’t just inspire reflection—it energized action. I left Gettysburg feeling refreshed, refocused, and excited about the long-term growth in both my leadership skills and my team's ability to execute with excellence. Beyond the powerful curriculum, I formed meaningful friendships with incredible leaders from across the country—each in diverse roles, offering perspectives that helped me better understand how to lead with empathy, clarity, and purpose. It was more than training—it was a catalyst for lasting change.”

Brittany Lopez, assistant county manager, Tooele County, Utah, USA

“The ICMA Gettysburg Leadership Institute was a wonderful experience. I got a different leadership lesson with each stop around the battlefield that helped me address a situation I was facing at the time and generally improve as a leader in my organization. The history and political insights also broadened my perspective and contributed to an enlightening couple of days.”

Dallin Kimble, city manager, Prescott, Arizona, USA

What to Expect

The ICMA Gettysburg Leadership Institute offers a hands-on, thought-provoking experience for leaders ready to grow their impact. Participants will:

• Engage in three days of deep exploration into leadership, organizational effectiveness, and lessons from history.

• Explore the complexity of the Battle of Gettysburg—including the size of the armies, the diversity of leadership styles, and the personalities that shaped pivotal decisions.

• Discuss command structures, communication methods, and military strategies that offer valuable parallels for modern local government leadership.

• Study examples of strong and flawed leadership, emphasizing communication, leading by example, talent management, and making the most of available resources.

Apply Now

The ICMA Gettysburg Leadership Institute delivers an unforgettable opportunity to gain leadership insights from one of the most consequential events in American history. This intensive program is designed for local government leaders looking to build stronger teams, make better decisions, and lead with clarity and conviction.

Spots are limited and filling quickly, apply today to secure your place!

APPLY NOW