Ascend is a revolutionary approach to bridging the gap between today’s young professional and tomorrow’s leaders.  Geared for the up and coming, Ascend provides the opportunity of advanced networking with some of our most distinguished community leaders, while working towards a positive difference in our society.  

The mission of Ascend is to “Expose and encourage young leaders to get involved and impact the issues facing Round Rock.”  

View the Ascend Participation Letter [PDF]

Ascend Criteria and Format

Eligibility & Selection
Ascend is a select group of committed individuals ages 21- 39, who are eager to become actively engaged in the issues facing the City of Round Rock.  Class size will be capped at 15, with preference given to those applicants who have completed Leadership Round Rock.  Additionally, there will be a maximum of 3 participants over the age of 40 who will serve in an “advisory” role with the group.  Round Rock Chamber of Commerce membership is not required; however it is encouraged that participants be active Chamber Investors.  

Program Requirements
Attendance and active participation are required for nine (9) sessions that will be held 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month, from September through May.  This time may vary depending upon the scope of the program, but will be generally limited to less than 3 hours per month.  The first meeting will be a mandatory out of town retreat to be held on Friday, August 20, 2010.  

Program Fee
The fee for involvement in Ascend is $300.00, which will cover miscellaneous printed materials and lunches for the program meetings.  The fee must be paid by the first class session unless prior arrangements have been made and approved. There will be no refunds after the class begins.  

Optional Mentoring Component
Members will have the option for monthly coffees or lunches (not covered through the program fee) with key leaders from our community, set up by Ascend.  This is a time to have a small audience with distinguished community individuals for informal discussion and Q&A.  

For applications or for more information contact Lori Petersen, Vice-President of Community Development for the Round Rock Chamber of Commerce at 512-255-5805 or lpetersen(at)roundrockchamber.org.

The City of Round Rock has a promising future. Ascend is focused on developing the skills and knowledge base of the young professionals that will become the leaders of tomorrow.  We hope you will consider this investment in the future of Round Rock.