About the Foundation

Junior Leadership Southeast Texas allows 11^th grade area students to enhance their skills and knowledge base and encourages them to remain in, or return to, our area following graduation. This unique program includes six all-day sessions throughout the school year on topics such as Leadership Skills, Public Safety, Arts & Community, Local Government, Economic Development, Healthcare, and then concludes with a graduation for high school juniors in the Beaumont Area. The sessions involve speakers, field trips, and events to enhance student’s knowledge of our area.

Leadership Beaumont is a community awareness and leadership development program. Leadership Beaumont began in 1971 and is the oldest community leadership program in the state of Texas.

Through the program, participants gain a deeper understanding of the Beaumont community, including its history, strengths, challenges, and opportunities for economic growth and civic improvement. Participants explore issues that impact the future of our region, examine innovative approaches to community development, and engage with diverse leaders and organizations across Southeast Texas. Leadership Beaumont also provides opportunities to build meaningful relationships beyond participants’ usual professional and social circles while enhancing leadership skills and encouraging active community involvement.

Over the decades, almost two thousand graduates have completed the program, many of whom have gone on to become business executives, elected officials, nonprofit leaders, educators, and community advocates.

Sponsorships to underwrite the cost of the program are contributions to the Beaumont Chamber Foundation, a 501c3 tax deductible organization.