Membership

Table of Contents

The Masters Program

The GNL Masters Program educates highly accomplished men and women about the issues in Collier County through a series of 10 in-depth sessions covering all major aspects of community life. Each year, GNL accepts a class of 42 individuals, many of whom are new to this area, and exposes them to sessions focusing on history, culture and communication, healthcare, education, environment, growth, human services, government, Immokalee and law. Sessions include presentations, panel discussions, on-site visits and field trips, which are planned by members of the previous Masters Class and overseen by the Class Leaders, who are also members of the GNL board.

Click here to access and print a brochure.

Benefits of Participation

 Within a collegial atmosphere, you will gain an in-depth understanding of the political, cultural, civic and governmental fabric of our county and establish important networking contacts. You will become a prime candidate for appointment to committees, boards and commissions.

During the Master Class year, you will be invited to attend all GNL Alumni functions.

After graduation, you will be invited to join GNL's Alumni Association, which offers outstanding educational programs as well as social activities that foster ongoing friendships.

• Record of accomplishment. The ideal Masters candidate is a proven leader in his or her field of endeavor--whether in the for-profit or nonprofit sector. Most candidates have achieved a position of leadership and responsibility with a strong track record of accomplishment.
• Commitment to the Greater Naples community. The Masters Program offers participants a unique opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the issues facing Collier County with one overriding goal in mind: to encourage participants to use their newfound knowledge to "give something back"--to become involved in a significant way in bettering this community. Ideal candidates will be proven leaders seeking ways to apply their skills to community service.
• Career and life status. Because the focus of the Masters Program is on community service rather than active business networking, GNL expects that most candidates will be retired or semi-retired and in their 50's or 60's. Whether retired or working full time, it is critical that candidates have the time, interest and capability to participate fully in the day-long Master classes, many of which require considerable walking. Candidates are also required to be proficient in, and utilize, e-mail and the Internet.
• Time in community before and after the Masters Program. Masters Program sessions focus on educating candidates about the needs and issues in Collier County. Successful candidates are typically more recent residents who have a sincere interest in learning about and serving the community. Graduates must live in this area at least half of the year so that they may contribute fully to the community.

• Spouse/partner applications. Spouses/partners of GNL alumni are welcome to participate in the program provided each one independently meets the selection criteria. Only one spouse/partner may participate in a given year and must be sponsored by another alumnus or alumna.
• Paid employees in the same organization. Only one paid employee of a given company or organization may be accepted in a single year.
• Gender balance. GNL's goal is to achieve gender balance in each class and the wait list.

• Class attendance. Masters Class members are expected to attend all sessions. One full day excused absence or two half-day excused absences are allowed and must be arranged with the Program Chair as far in advance as possible. Excused absences are allowed for "emergencies and illness"; all other circumstances will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Attendance at Retreat Day and Evaluation Day is essential. A member with an illness or emergency on Retreat Day may be asked to defer to the next year's class.

• After graduation commitment. Each class member, as part of a team, is required to help design and run a session for the following year's class. Members are also actively encouraged to use their newfound knowledge to serve the community.