Applications now open for inaugural Leadership Mount Pleasant cohort

The Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce (MPCC) has officially opened applications for its inaugural Leadership Mount Pleasant class. Designed to cultivate, connect, and elevate the next generation of local leaders, this dynamic, immersive program will welcome its first cohort in January 2027. Applications are open now through October 9, 2026.

Guided by the Chamber’s mission to build business and community success East of the Cooper, Leadership Mount Pleasant is a collective investment in the town’s future. The program offers a curated space for those who live, work, and serve in Mount Pleasant to engage directly with local decision makers, industry experts, and fellow civic minded peers.

Mission: To equip and inspire emerging and established leaders to make a positive impact on Mount Pleasant and beyond by deepening their understanding and appreciation of the unique fabric that shapes our community.

“As Mount Pleasant continues to grow, the need for informed and engaged business and community leaders has never been greater,” says Rebecca Imholz, Executive Director of the Mount Pleasant Chamber. “Leadership Mount Pleasant addresses this by creating pathways for collaboration and shared solutions across public and private sectors. Participants will gain an exclusive ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at the infrastructure, economy, and culture that define the Lowcountry.”

The inaugural cohort of approximately 25 participants will embark on a journey of eight thoughtfully curated sessions featuring interactive panels, site visits, and experiential learning hosted across Mount Pleasant.

Program Session Highlights:

• Local Government and Public Safety

• Economic Development and Business Climate

• Education and Workforce

• Infrastructure, Housing, and Environment

• Healthcare and Tourism

Participants will experience behind-the-scenes access at key community locations, including Hyatt House Charleston, Boone Hall Plantation, Town of Mount Pleasant facilities, East Cooper Center for Advanced Studies, Trident Technical College, SC Ports Authority, Novant East Cooper Medical Center, Patriots Point, Shem Creek Processing Plant, The Harbor Entrepreneur Center, and Gather MTP.

How to Get Involved

• Applications are open now through October 9, 2026. Interested candidates can apply on the MPCC Leadership webpage.

• Local organizations can sponsor sessions or networking events to showcase their commitment to community leadership.

“Leadership Mount Pleasant is an opportunity for our entire community to come together, bringing ideas, energy, and leadership to the table,” says Karina Garrison, Chair of the Leadership Mount Pleasant Advisory Council. “By joining this initiative, you are joining respected business and civic leaders who are stepping forward to help shape a stronger, more connected future for Mount Pleasant.”

To submit an application, learn more about Leadership Mount Pleasant, or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Rebecca Imholz via email.

About MPCC

Since 1992, the Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce has connected East Cooper business leaders across every industry—from finance and health care to retail and hospitality—to drive mutual growth. MPCC’s mission is to encourage business and community success East of the Cooper. Recent honors include SC Biz News’ 2025 Empowering Women Companies, a 2023 Lowcountry Diversity Leadership Award, and three consecutive Best Activist Group wins from the Moultrie News.