In July 1990, the Leadership Academy was established within the Kentucky Community College System (KCCS) for the purpose of preparing the next generation of leaders within the system's 14 colleges. An eight-member advisory board, appointed by the chancellor of the KCCS, set about developing the activities of the Academy. The three goals adopted by the board included: to develop leaders for the KCCS from the ranks of the community college faculty and staff; to increase the number of women and minorities in leadership roles at all levels; and to develop a model of leadership training and networking which could be used in other states and districts. Presidents from each of the 14 colleges created their own selection process for nominating one candidate and an alternate to participate. During the first year of the Academy, the advisory board selected 20 participants. The Academy, which has just begun its second year of operation, uses an experiential learning model, consisting of the following three stages: (1) a 4-day summer institute focusing on state and national issues in education, business and government, as well as personal growth and development concerns; (2) a fall internship at the participants' home college under the mentorship of their president or dean; and (3) two fall retreats focusing on the culture, politics and problems of the region as they relate to the KCCS. Participants are required to submit written evaluations following each stage. To insure the current leadership's involvement in the project, the 14 college presidents review and advise the work of the Academy board, host the summer institute, and plan and implement the retreats. (PAA)