Leadership Gwinnett selected 48 of the county’s established leaders for its Class of 2027, drawn from government, education, healthcare, business, and nonprofit sectors. Over nine months beginning in August 2026, the class will study the history, challenges, and long-term opportunities shaping one of Georgia’s fastest-growing counties and build the relationships to act on them together.

During those nine months, class members go inside the institutions that run the county, from courts and schools to hospitals, government offices, and the businesses driving its growth. They meet the people making decisions, dig into the issues facing residents, and build the kind of relationships that turn good intentions into real civic contribution. Most arrive with the same instinct: a pull to understand the community they serve more deeply and to do more with what they learn. That instinct is exactly what Leadership Gwinnett looks for.

“These 48 leaders are already making a difference across the county. Over the next nine months, they will see how Gwinnett works from the inside and leave ready to do even more,” said Jennifer Hibbard, Foundation Board Chair, Leadership Gwinnett.

For many in the class, the appeal to join this program is the chance to understand the county more deeply and act on what they learn. “By joining the Class of 2027, I hope to deepen my understanding of Gwinnett’s history, emerging challenges, and long-term opportunities so I can better support the community’s growth,” said Jill Pennamon, Energy Efficiency Education Coordinator Sr. at Georgia Power and one of this year’s class members. “I look forward to collaborating with leaders across the county to gain broader perspectives and address the issues impacting our residents.”

The Leadership Gwinnett Class of 2027

The Class of 2027 begins in August 2026 and graduates in May 2027. 

Know someone who would make a strong candidate for the Class of 2028? . Nominations are accepted year-round, and applications for the Class of 2028 open in January 2027. 

Want to get involved sooner? Register for Glance Gwinnett®, an immersive 2.5-day experience, which takes place from October 28 to 30, 2026.