Apply now!
We are now accepting applications for the 2022 Civic Leadership Academy. Apply now, or nominate a candidate today!
The Civic Leadership Academy (CLA) is designed for high-performing nonprofit and government leaders who seek rigorous leadership development.
The Civic Leadership Academy meets every other Friday from January to June. Facilitated by distinguished UChicago faculty, the six-month program delves into foundations of leadership and institutional reform, and pushes fellows to think critically about practical application through a one-week global practicum and a monthly civic practitioner leadership series.
Successful CLA fellows are intellectually curious, reflective, ambitious and innovative, collaborative, and committed to positive change. Job titles for nonprofit candidates could include chief executive officer, chief operating officer, executive director, deputy director, senior program manager, and regional director. Job titles for government candidates could include deputy commissioner, assistant commissioner, director, budget director, and chief of staff.
Candidates should:
Be a full-time employee of a Chicago nonprofit organization, the City of Chicago, Cook County, or local government agencies
Demonstrate a strong track record of leadership, innovation, and high performance
Have a minimum of five years of work experience in the civic sector
Be nominated by a supervisor and provide one additional letter of recommendation
To apply:
Submit one letter of recommendation
Provide a nomination from your supervisor
Information Sessions
We invite you to learn more about the program at one of our upcoming virtual informational events, where CLA staff and alumni will present and answer your questions about this innovative program. You can RSVP to an information session here.
Tuesday, June 29, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Tuesday, July 13, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Friday, July 16, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Tuesday, July 27, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Tuesday, August 10, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Friday, August 13, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Tuesday, August 24, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Tuesday, September 7, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Friday, September 10, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Tuesday, September 21, 2021 from 12-1pm CT
Friday, September 24, 2021 from 12-1pm CT