Be part of the 2026 cohort of Muskegon In Focus!
Applications will be accepted through Friday, August 14.
Apply Here
Learn. Grow. Energize.
Over the past 30 years, 1,000+ individuals have participated in this unique program and many have assumed leadership roles in Muskegon County on civic, community, nonprofit and governmental boards and commissions. A selection committee will review all applications, giving special attention to leadership potential from a diverse participant group.
- Broaden your understanding of the community and its resources
- Work more effectively as a leader in the community and in your organization
- Expand your circle of personal and professional relationships.
- Meet over 40 local community leaders
- Sharing your experiences will inspire others in your community!
Who:
Applicants should have a serious interest in community involvement, a demonstrated commitment to the area and a desire to better understand what makes Muskegon a great place to live, work, play and learn.
What:
Muskegon in Focus brings together a diverse group of professionals in a community-awareness program to connect leaders from business, education, non-profit and government. Participants engage in a series of memorable experiences where you will learn about community assets and institutions as well as the leaders behind them. Hear the stories of how great projects on the Muskegon Lakeshore came to be.
Why:
Service to community starts with understanding your “community as a system,” its strengths and weaknesses, its challenges and opportunities. It is important to know community assets, history and accomplishments to be a more effective leader who can impact the future.
When:
Thursday, September 3 | 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Leaders Throughout History
Meet fellow participants and instructors. Walk the downtown Historic District to hear stories of leaders of the past that impact our lives today. Stop at the Muskegon Museum of Art for a private tour.
Wednesday, September 9 | 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Clean Water for All
Experience the amazing Muskegon County Resource Recovery facility and Solar Energy Center. Test the waters of Muskegon Lake with GVSU, end the day with a taste of locally made beer.
Session sponsored by: 
Thursday, September 24 | 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Fly, Ride, Climb
Tour beautiful northern Muskegon County with presentations from Howmet Aerospace, followed by an afternoon of team building at Muskegon Luge Adventure Park.
Thursday, October 8 | 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Taking Care of Ourselves
Meet leaders in healthcare to learn about the successes of today and challenges ahead.
Thursday, October 22 | 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Managing the Lakeshore Communities
Learn about advocacy and governance from West Michigan Chamber Presidents and local elected officials. Visit Muskegon’s newly renovated airport and tour a modern manufacturing facility.
Thursday, November 5 | 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Education to Career
Learn the issues facing schools and the progress in career preparation from local education leaders. Hear first-hand what makes this area’s education systems unique and how businesses can play a role.
Thursday, November 19 | 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Business and Culture Matter
Business drives the economy; culture drives the people. Visit local cultural gems to understand our unique quality of life assets. Join business leaders in an interactive discussion about today’s business environment.
Facilitated By:
This year’s program is facilitated by Cindy Larsen. Cindy has over 25 years in community leadership with speciation in economic development, marketing, government advocacy and non-profit management. She also worked in the manufacturing, media and state government. Cindy is originally from the area and enjoys all that West Michigan has to offer!
For additional information, contact Linden Peterson at the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce at 231-722-3751 or lpeterson@muskegon.org.
This program sponsored by community leader – Howmet Aerospace and The Howmet Aerospace Foundation
