Named in honor of former GMA President and Mayor of the city of Thomson from 1979-2007, the Robert E. Knox, Jr. Municipal Leadership Institute is an intensive multi-day seminar that focuses on helping city officials enhance and sharpen their leadership skills.  Facilitated in part by a nationally recognized training development consultant, the Leadership Institute includes an interactive simulation exercise that confronts participants with the daily problems of governing and ultimately demonstrates the necessity of communication and collaboration in achieving good governance.
 
The Knox Leadership Institute is offered annually in various locations throughout the state.  Enrollment is limited so that participants can have a full exchange of ideas with instructors and other municipal officials.
 
Completion of the Municipal Leadership Institute is required for municipal elected officials to receive a Certificate of Excellence and Certificate of Distinction.