emerging leaders
Frequently Asked Questions
If employed, we encourage you to check with your employer to see if they will cover the $1,000 tuition, either in part or full, as an investment in your professional development. Need help making your case? Contact us and we can assist with talking points or connect you with alumni at your organization.
Partial scholarship assistance is also available for those with demonstrated financial need; the average award is 35-50% of the tuition cost. Information on applying will be provided to those selected for the class. Please note: full scholarships are not available at this time.
Tuition includes:
- Program roster
- Meals, snacks and beverages during program days
- All program materials
- 40+ training hours
- Opportunity to participate in a small-group Civic Action Project
- FOCUS Now graduation/networking event
- Individual FOCUS membership during your time in the program, providing you with discounted event registration, access to the online member directory and biweekly newsletter
The FOCUS Emerging Leaders program offers participants a total of 40+ civic leadership development hours, spread over the course of 3-4 months.
The program includes a mix of half-day and full-day sessions, all held on weekdays. You'll also participate in a small-group Civic Action Project. Expect to spend 10-15 hours on this project, with some work occurring during regularly scheduled program days.
While content is continually updated for relevance and to meet the needs of the class, each cohort covers the following topics:
- Understanding Self and Leadership
- Civic-minded Leadership
- Finding Your WHY as a Leader
- Understanding Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Sessions frequently include a mix of speakers, interviews with regional leaders, small-group discussion, interactive exercises and reflection activities.
Yes! If you know someone who could benefit from the Emerging Leaders experience, you're welcome to submit a nomination. We will follow up with the candidate to share program details and application link.
All prospective participants must still complete an application by the session deadline.