The Nebraska Sustainability Leadership Workshop is directed at state, regional and local political leaders and decision makers, encouraging jurisdictions to work together on behalf of greater regional or statewide planning goals and initiatives. The Joslyn Institute will manage and produce the NSLW sessions on a schedule of repetitive sessions every other week (no sessions will be conducted during the months of August and December). Prior to each session JISC will select and invite fifteen civic leaders from the above categories of community audiences that are no more than 60 miles from each session’s chosen venue. Sessions will be programmed for a two-day duration and will not require overnight stays by participants.

Each session will be organized around case-study problems that will be identified during on-site, pre-session interviews conducted by NSLW facilitators. Each two-day session will feature at least five consultants consisting of community design and development professionals, natural resources specialists, and leadership experts. Community leaders will be asked to make presentations on local challenges and then work with other community leaders and consultants on identifying important issues and potential solutions. NSLW personnel will also present examples of sustainable solutions and best practices found in other communities.

The sessions are designed to spark lively debate and generate creative solutions. Facilitators will encourage participants to put every idea on the table and choose the very best. Education is key to the sessions, which include a mix of established and emerging leaders. Each session also includes a public component for presenting issues and solutions during an open house. Participants and facilitators will also visit with media, student groups and others.