Home › What We Do › Leadership Development › Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC)

Preparing Metro Atlanta's Next Generation of Leaders
Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC)

Since 1998, the Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC) youth leadership program has engaged hundreds of students in experiential learning with the region’s leaders and experts in transportation, natural resource sustainability, community development, and more.

Applications are no longer being accepted for the MARC 2025-2026 academic year

MARC logo

Each of the Atlanta region’s 11 metro counties (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale) and the City of Atlanta are represented in the diverse range of 10th and 11th grade students that have completed the program.

The MARC Program

MARC participants go beyond classroom learning to become immersed in the planning and development of a large metro region. Leadership, communication, and collaboration are some of the skills developed as students take tours, engage in debates, complete case studies, and learn from the region’s transportation, planning, arts and culture, and human services experts.

Recent MARC experiences include:

  • Transformative discussions with top regional leaders and experts
  • Exclusive behind the scenes access to award winning facilities
  • Travel to multiple counties in the Atlanta region
  • Insights from and networking with nationally-recognized leaders
MARC students engage in a community planning activity.
MARC students engage in a community planning activity.
Quote from Yusuf Naviwala, Parkview High School, Gwinnett County: You get to learn about things that are very important and matter. You get the opportunity to experience and see things you probably wouldn't without the MARC program.
MARC students tour a water treatment facility.
MARC students tour a water treatment facility.
Quote from Claire Collins, North Atlanta High School, Fulton County: Participating in the MARC was an incredible experience that opened my eyes to the challenges and opportunities shaping our community. I gained valuable insights into regional planning, transportation, and sustainability while collaborating with passionate leaders and peers.
Planes fly during a fun transportation-themed ice breaker.
Planes fly during a fun transportation-themed ice breaker.
Quote from Reyha Parsh, The Westminster Schools, Fulton County: The MARC program was an eye-opening experience that empowered me to understand and address real-world challenges facing our communities. Collaborating with peers and regional leaders taught me the importance of teamwork and finding creative solutions. MARC inspired me to get involved and make a difference in our region’s future!
MARC students discover the Flint River.
MARC students discover the Flint River.
Quote from Maxwell Watkins, Marist School, Dekalb County: MARC opened my eyes to the role of regional planning in seemingly unrelated aspects of living in Atlanta, ranging from youth soccer to our elderly population. In doing this, this program highlights the ARC's commitment to equity in planning.
MARC students learn about clean tech innovation and jobs.
MARC students learn about clean tech innovation and jobs.
Quote from Vy Le, Morrow High School, Clayton County: Participating in MARC has been an incredible experience! It has allowed me to connect with like-minded peers, explore solutions to real-world challenges, and develop leadership skills. MARC has truly empowered me to make a meaningful impact in my community.

MARC Commitment and Requirements

MARC 2025-2026 sessions are scheduled to take place in person on the following dates.

  • Saturday, August 9: Kick-off
  • Saturday, September 6: Retreat (Required)
  • Saturday, October 4
  • Saturday, November 1
  • Saturday, December 13
  • Saturday, January 24: Open House (Required)
  • Wednesday, March 11: ARC Board Presentation (Optional)

MARC Application

The application period for the 2025-2026 class will close on May 16, 2025. Apply today!

Application criteria:

  • Applications must be complete for consideration.
  • Students must be sophomores or juniors during the 2025-2026 academic year.
  • Students must demonstrate an ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.
  • Students must demonstrate an interest in civic and community issues.
  • Students are selected based on their level of service and leadership, recommendations, and responses to essay questions.
Powered by ARC
33°n
CDAP
Community Planning Academy
ConnectA
Empowerline
Georgia Commute Options
Green Communities
LCI
LINK
MARC
Metro Atlanta Speaks
MNG Water Planning District
RLI
State of the Region
UASI
WorkSource GA
33°n
CDAP
Community Planning Academy
ConnectA
Empowerline
Georgia Commute Options
Green Communities
LCI
LINK
MARC
Metro Atlanta Speaks
MNG Water Planning District
RLI
State of the Region
UASI
WorkSource GA
ARC Annual Partners

ARC’s Strategic Partners are committed to fostering collaborative regional approaches that improve quality of life in metro Atlanta. Their support elevates ARC leadership programs, research and events throughout the year. Learn more.

VisionaryGeorgia Power
InnovatorDelta
InnovatorAtlanta Gas Light
InnovatorUber