The latest Leadership Pearland class was recognized at the Pearland Chamber’s State of Leadership Luncheon, where graduates from the Class of 2026 were honored alongside the introduction of a new alumni award.
Leadership Pearland is a nine month civic leadership program sponsored by the Pearland Chamber and supported by the Pearland Leadership Foundation. Participants step outside their normal routines one day a month for program days that highlight different parts of community life: city and county government, schools, healthcare, business, nonprofits, and regional issues. The program starts with a retreat and continues with site visits, briefings, and hands on experiences designed to help emerging leaders understand how decisions are made and how different sectors connect.
A key element of Leadership Pearland is the class project. Each year’s cohort selects and completes a project designed to have lasting impact. The Class of 2026 chose Saving Grace Women’s Home, a 12 month inpatient recovery program, raising funds to provide a prayer garden and outdoor gathering space where women can sit together, share stories, and support one another in recovery. As part of the leadership training program, the class is required to select a service project, and we selected the Saving Grace women’s home.
During the 2026 luncheon, the Pearland Leadership Foundation also introduced the inaugural Silver Pear Award, recognizing Leadership Pearland alumni who have continued to invest heavily in the community. The first recipient, longtime Pearland leader Ruby Sandars, was honored for decades of service through education, civic organizations, faith communities, youth programs, and volunteer work. The award is meant to highlight graduates who stay engaged, give back, and leave a lasting impact on Pearland.
For those interested in joining a future class, applications for the next Leadership Pearland cohort are now open. The program is aimed at residents, business owners, and professionals who want a deeper understanding of Pearland’s systems and a stronger network of local relationships. Prospective participants can learn more about program days, tuition, and application deadlines, and submit their applications, through the Pearland Leadership Foundation’s website at: https://pearlandleadership.org/leadership-pearland
Direct Link to the Application:
https://www.emailmeform.com/builder/form/37jkucyh7RX2UQ3zM5g5esHdA
