The Emerging Leaders Council (ELC) is a diverse team of under-40, upwardly mobile young professionals rooted in the Tucson community whose mission is to accelerate the growth of Tucson’s business climate along with their own careers. The ELC is comprised of young professionals who are proven top performers representing “best in class” companies across a variety of local organizations including private, public and non-profit.

The ELC was founded in 2014 under the leadership of Ben Korn, Safeguard, Melissa Dulaney-Moule, T.E.P. and Whitney Thistle, United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona and is supported by the Tucson Metro Chamber’s executive team and its Board of Directors. At monthly roundtable meetings, the ELC has robust discussions about what political, economic and social challenges we face here in Southern Arizona. The ELC also regularly hosts guest speakers including prominent local elected leaders and key business leaders who share valuable insights about our community and career development.

What differentiates this group from others is its demonstrated commitment to mentorship. Each ELC member is paired with an accomplished senior executive who can help them navigate the road ahead with valuable insight and experience.

Additionally, the ELC promotes a culture of civic activism and awareness relative to our local political and business landscape. Through these key tenets of knowledge and connections, the Emerging Leaders thrive on a desire to enrich the Tucson community while simultaneously propelling their own careers.

The Emerging Leaders Council also serves as a contributor to members of the Tucson Metro Chamber Board of Directors on issues involving strategies to keep Tucson competitive in a world economy.

Requirements to be a member in ELC:

• Under 40 years of age on July 1, 2018
• Mid to upper level management position
• Must be Chamber member on or before July 1, 2018
• Applicant must be committed to attending meetings first Wednesday of every month (7:30 am - 9:00 am)
• History of active engagement in Tucson community outside of professional requirements

Selection for invitation into ELC is based upon scoring metric:

• De-identified written application review
• Resume, work-history & community involvement
• Informal interview with ELC Members at April meeting

Requirements for ELC Mentor:

• Committed to mentorship for one year
• Willingness to share skills, knowledge and expertise with mentee
• Demonstrate positive attitude and act as positive role model
• Value ongoing professional development and growth
• Willing to provide guidance and constructive feedback
• Respected by colleagues and employees within your field of work
• Demonstrated success in meeting personal and professional goals