MSU Extension Great Lakes Leadership Academy

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We invite YOU to become part of this very special group of leaders who will learn about themselves, develop their leadership potential, and share their knowledge around a broad range of issues affecting our quality of life in Michigan and beyond!

The Emerging Leader Program is delivered over a six-month period, with three, three-day sessions. Program focus is on developing individual and organizational leadership skills and applying those skills in a collaborative fashion. The program provides both classroom-based and experiential learning and is an outgrowth of the Natural Resource Leadership Project that has been conducted by the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources since 2002.

Tuition for the Emerging Leader Program is $4,000, which includes all meals, lodging and materials. Individuals will be required to cover their own transportation to and from the meeting sites. Your employer may be willing to assist with all or a portion of your tuition. Limited scholarships are also available from the Great Lakes Leadership Academy, based on need.

1. The 2027 Emerging Leader Program application will open on July 1 and close on October 1, 2026. If you would like to be added to our recruitment list, please email us at glla@msu.edu
2. When the application is available, complete the online application form.
3. Applications are reviewed and individual interviews are scheduled with invited candidates.
4. Due to the limited participant capacity and the need for a diverse composition of participants in any given group, not all qualified candidates are chosen. Individuals are strongly encouraged to re-apply in subsequent years.

Timeline:

Application deadline: October 1, 2026
Interviews: October/November 2026
References due: October 15, 2026
Applicants notified of selection decision: February 2027
ELP kicks off on April 2027

Application Checklist:

Here are some tips on information you will need and/or materials you can prepare before going online to complete your Great Lakes Leadership Academy application. 

1. Secure support for your time and financial commitment to the program from:
   • Your employer and/or business partner (if applicable). Determine if they are willing to provide financial assistance for your participation in the program.
   • Your spouse/partner (if applicable).

2. Download the PDF below to preview the application questions and prepare your responses in advance. Please note this document is for reference only and is not a fillable application. When you're ready, submit your application through the online Google Form—we are unable to accept completed PDFs or emailed responses.

   Download Application PDF

If you have further questions or concerns about the application process, contact us at glla@msu.edu

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, or veteran status.