Leadership Lehigh Valley, originally known as Leadership Bethlehem, was born in 1985 when the Bethlehem Area Chamber of Commerce had the idea of starting a leadership program to develop emerging young leaders who could fulfill the community's growing need for volunteer board directors.

The first class, the Class of 1986, was accepted and 26 participants graduated in June. After 3 successful classes, the Bethlehem Chamber invited the former Lehigh Valley and The Two Rivers Area Chambers to become a part of the program, which became the independent, regional, program known today as Leadership Lehigh Valley.

Leadership Lehigh Valley maintains an open, cooperative, and mutually beneficial relationship with the Chambers of Commerce, who provide in-kind support to the Program each year.

In addition, Leadership Lehigh Valley has maintained a close relationship with Northampton Community College, who has provided administrative support and services needed to run the Leadership Lehigh Valley program, on a contractual basis since 1988.

An executive director and board of directors manage and direct Leadership Lehigh Valley. The Board is comprised of graduates and non-graduates of the program from throughout the region.

Leadership Lehigh Valley alumni support the mission of the organization and help maintain the network of graduates and affiliates.

Over 750 men and women have graduated from the Leadership Lehigh Valley program. They represent the more than 300 companies and organizations in the region that have sponsored their participation and support their volunteer service.