Applications Now Open for the 2025-26 Leadership Academy Class

The LeadingAge Illinois Leadership Academy was created to develop leaders who are passionate, empowered, visionary and committed to life-long learning so they are able to successfully advocate for older adults while evoking excellence within their organizations.

The class of fellows meets four times throughout the course of 8-9 months, all within the state of Illinois. It is an immersive experience in which fellows devote two days each session that help them:

• Understand the difference between leadership and management
• Find their authentic leadership voice
• Learn how to be a coach and mentor
• Discover the secret of building trust at multiple levels—with others, within organizations, and communities at large
• Build and lead teams
• Determine how to create an empowered and engaged team based on the group’s strengths
• Explore their potential as a change agent
• Understand the five discovery skills which drive innovation and lead to creative new models of service
• Become an innovative and visionary leader
• Embrace a holistic approach to life and work for maximum effectiveness

Click here to view the brochure, which contains more information about Leadership Academy and the application process.

Who should attend:

The program also includes planned tours of host communities so fellows may understand how each community puts into practice the learnings from the program. From time to time, a fellow may also invite their leadership academy group to tour his/her community. While this may be encouraged, these opportunities would be available and attended on a voluntary basis.

It is recommended that you send emerging or current leaders from your organization, including executives, directors, managers, and coordinators. Only three people from one organization may participate at a time.

Fees:

The registration fee is $2,950 for the full program (four sessions/eight days).

Registration includes:

• All books, materials, and handouts
• Breakfast, lunch, and snacks
• Community site tours
• 3 group dinners
• Graduation ceremony

Acceptance into the 2025-26 program also provides fellows with a complimentary registration to the 2026 LeadingAge Illinois Annual Meeting & Expo in Schaumburg, IL.
   
Leadership Academy applications are due JUNE 2, 2025.