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The CONA Leadership Program
PLEASE NOTE: Leadership 2025 is now full. We hope to see you next year!
Completed applications for CONA member associations and $150.00 tuition must be received no later than December 31, 2024. Non member registration is $170. Class space is limited. Application submission does not guarantee acceptance. Attendance is expected at all classes and activities in order to graduate.
The tuition fee includes the Orientation Session, all CONA Leadership classes, the CONA Leadership Class Project, other activities (including the St. Petersburg Historic Bus Tour), the graduation dinner, and a CONA Leadership Class diploma and pin.
About the CONA Leadership Program
The Council of Neighborhood Associations of St. Petersburg was formed in 1955 and incorporated in July of 1957. The Council of Neighborhood Associations (CONA) is an all volunteer, not for profit corporation that endeavors to enhance the quality of life in St. Pete. CONA members include neighborhood, civic, and business associations throughout the city.
CONA works cooperatively with our local government on those issues that impact the quality of life for area residents and it provides an active and effective forum for bringing neighborhood issues to public attention. In addition, CONA provides leadership development and training through the Leadership Program and offers assistance to neighborhood and civic associations throughout the St. Pete area. The Council of Neighborhood Associations hosts this program annually. Sessions include a light dinner for the evening sessions, a historic bus tour on a Saturday morning offered through the St. Petersburg History Museum followed by lunch,an optional opportunity to assist in one neighborhood improvement project with the group on a Saturday morning, and a culminating celebration dinner.
Participants also have a chance to attend a few sessions at different locations throughout the city. These include City Hall, where you’ll have an opportunity to engage in a round table discussion with city politicians and directors. You will also tour our beautiful police station and meet and chat with Chief Holloway and your district community service officers. There’s a session at Hammock Hall, the beautiful community room at Boyd Hill.
The cost of the program is $150 for CONA members and $170 for not yet members. New neighborhood leaders and those that are just starting an association could qualify for a scholarship if they meet certain criteria.
So if you’re interested in meeting the directors for the various city departments and sharing best practices and neighborhood leadership in a collegiate setting with people from across the city, then this program is for you.
Classes are held on Mondays and start at the end of January each year. If you would like more information email [email protected].
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Developing Strong Neighborhood Leaders for a Stronger St. Petersburg
About the CONA Leadership Program
CONA was formed in 1955 to enhance the quality of life in St. Petersburg. Our Leadership Program builds on this mission by equipping engaged citizens with the knowledge and skills to lead their neighborhoods effectively.
Program Features:
Expert-Led Sessions
Learn from city leaders, policy experts, and experienced neighborhood advocates.
Historic Bus Tour
Discover St. Pete’s history through a guided tour with the St. Petersburg History Museum.
Roundtable Discussions
Engage with city officials, department heads, and law enforcement leaders.
Hands-On Neighborhood Project
Collaborate with fellow students to make a tangible impact in the community.
Exclusive City Tours
Visit City Hall, Boyd Hill’s Hammock Hall, and the St. Pete Police Department for behind-the-scenes insights.
Leadership Graduation Celebration
Recognizing your achievements with a formal graduation dinner, diploma, and CONA Leadership pin.
