About Us

Lead Athens is a transformative, year‑long leadership program founded in 1982 by the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce. Built around the pillars of Leadership, Education, Awareness, and Development, participants immerse themselves in critical community issues—economic development, civic governance, healthcare, education, arts, and workforce—equipping them with the skills to collaborate, solve complex problems, and shape Athens into a stronger, more inclusive community.

The Lead Athens Alumni Association carries this impact beyond graduation, uniting over 700 alumni from diverse sectors to stay connected, serve together, and continue advancing initiatives benefiting the regional community. Through networking events, community service projects, and educational programming, alumni remain engaged as catalysts for positive change in Athens-Clarke County.