We believe in supporting the next generation of leaders in MetroWest because effective leaders can build strong organizations and organizational ecosystems, which help our communities thrive. Unfortunately, nonprofit staff rarely have the opportunity to intentionally chart a course to grow as leaders. Through the Emerging Leaders Academy, we introduce new and hone existing skills, an expanded professional network, and the opportunity to reflect and grow as leaders for local nonprofit and town agency staff.
Applications for the 2024 Emerging Leaders Academy are now closed.
Click here to watch our Emerging Leaders Academy information session.
The Emerging Leaders Academy (ELA) is an eight-session series that provides a substantial and accessible introduction to leadership development. The program is intended for professionals with between five and ten years’ experience and is best suited for those who have taken on new leadership responsibilities or those who have a goal of advancing as leaders in the near future.
This program helps participants develop self-awareness, insights, and skills that are essential for succeeding in any role. The focus is not on operations but on learning to be authentic, inclusive, and highly effective leaders who can make a powerful contribution to an organization’s mission. The program is once again being led by Bob Greene, MS, ACC.
Participants can look to gain:
The ELA emphasizes the following learning themes throughout the program:
There is no tuition or fee associated with participation in the ELA.
Participants will attend four 2-hour virtual sessions and four 3-hour in-person sessions at the Foundation’s offices in Natick. Attendance at all sessions is expected.
In addition, participants are expected to complete at-home assignments and review documents to help put learning into action between each session and maximize the group’s time together. Over the course of the program, each participant will have two individual coaching sessions (by Zoom or phone) with the program’s facilitator and will participate in peer networking activities. There will also be a variety of guest speakers to enhance conversations and learnings.
September 18, 9:00am-12:00pm – In Person
September 25, 9:00-11:00am – Virtual
October 9, 9:00-11:00am – Virtual
October 16, 9:00am-12:00pm – In Person
October 23, 9:00-11:00am – Virtual
October 31, 9:00am-12:00pm – In Person
November 6, 9:00-11:00am – Virtual
November 13, 9:00am – 12:00pm – In Person
We want to engage a diverse cohort that reflects our communities and adds to the vibrancy of the leadership pipeline and learning community in MetroWest.
The Emerging Leaders Academy is ideal for those applicants who:
The Foundation reviews applications based on five criteria:
If you do not fit all of the criteria listed above but you feel that this program is appropriate for you in your current career stage, please apply! The Foundation will consider all applications, especially those from candidates who have had less access to leadership development programming in the past.
For additional information about the program, contact Alyssa Berkson, Program Manager at the Community Foundation for MetroWest.