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Emerging Leaders Academy

We believe in the power of learning, and in fostering strong networks. Through our Center for Philanthropy Education, we prepare nonprofit and town agency leaders, staff, and volunteers to think and operate strategically, effectively, and inclusively.

About the Program

We believe in supporting the next generation of leaders in MetroWest because effective leaders can build strong organizations, and strong organizations 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 hope to provide new skills, an expanded professional network, and the opportunity to reflect and grow as leaders for local nonprofit and town agency staff.

This 10-session program for emerging leaders at MetroWest nonprofit organizations provides new skills to help these emerging leaders be more strategic and effective–and expand their network. There is no fee to attend this program, which is once again being led by Bob Greene, MS, ACC. We are excited about all that the participants will learn and can bring back to their organizations.

The program is best suited for those who are new senior managers or anticipate becoming senior managers in the near future. Participants can look to gain:

  • Increased insight regarding your leadership style, strengths, and areas for growth
  • Clear developmental goals with action steps to meet those goals
  • Increased effectiveness with professional relationship-building
  • Increased understanding of how to be effective in complex organizational systems
  • An enhanced professional network

The ELA touches upon the following learning themes throughout the program:

  • Identifying your unique development journey
  • Self-awareness and mindfulness
  • Diversity and inclusion
  • Effective workplace communication
  • Melding reflection with action

There is no tuition or fee associated with participation in the ELA

What to Expect

Participants will attend ten, 2-hour sessions. Sessions will be mostly virtual with the potential opportunity to gather in-person periodically as it is safe to do so.

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 phone) with the program’s facilitator and will participate in peer networking matches. Sessions will also include a variety of guest speakers to enhance conversations and learnings.

Check back here for session details when they become available.

Who Should Apply?

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. This program includes an application process and we ask that you submit a resume and letter of recommendation.

The Emerging Leaders Academy is ideal for those applicants who:

  • Are currently employed by a nonprofit or a town agency located in MetroWest or serving the region.
  • Town agencies should focus on human services, the arts, and/or the environment
  • Have between five and ten years of experience working in the nonprofit sector
  • Demonstrate leadership experience and/or potential
  • Are willing to actively participate, commit to challenging themselves, and are open to learning from thefacilitator, guest speakers, and their peers

The Foundation reviews applications based on five criteria:

  • Personal leadership objectives
  • Professional experience in the nonprofit sector
  • Community experience
  • Quality of applicant’s responses to application questions
  • Quality of letter of recommendation

Questions?

For additional information about the program, contact Matt Jose, Program Officer at the Foundation for MetroWest.