The Inaugural APHSA National Leadership Academy Cohort: Leading the Future of Human Services

In March 2026, APHSHA celebrated 24 leaders representing 22 states who successfully completed the inaugural APHSA National Leadership Academy, demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to leadership growth, collaboration, and community impact. Through shared learning, authentic dialogue, and applied practice, the cohort not only strengthened their leadership capacity, but also built lasting relationships and cross-state networks that will continue to support and influence the human services field for years to come.

49 leaders. Countless communities. One powerful beginning.

On April 28, leaders from across the United States came together for the kickoff of two APHSA National Leadership Academy cohorts—and what unfolded over two days was nothing short of transformational.

They gave themselves a rare and powerful gift: PAUSE. Space to step back from the urgency of the day-to-day. Space to reconnect with their purpose, their leadership, and the communities they serve. Space to move beyond traditional learning—building authentic relationships, learning from one another, and strengthening a network of support that will last far beyond the in-person sessions.

Watching those connections form in real time? Powerful doesn’t begin to cover it.

Empowered. Inspired. Encouraged.

Leaders left feeling reignited, equipped with an entirely new perspective on what it means to lead. This was only the beginning. With eight more modules ahead, the learning deepens, the connections strengthen, and the impact these leaders will drive across their organizations and communities nationwide continues to grow.

Are YOU ready to lead differently?

Applications open June 1, 2026! Stay tuned—your seat at the table may be closer than you think. Leaders driving impact, elevating their skills, and making connections across states. The best is yet to come!

What is the National Leadership Academy?

The APHSA National Leadership Academy is a transformative leadership experience designed for public sector, nonprofit, academic, and community leaders dedicated to creating meaningful impact. Through a hybrid model combining virtual learning and in-person engagement, participants explore next-generation leadership competencies, build authentic partnerships, and drive change centered in people and community.

The purpose of the Academy is to develop adaptive, visionary, and community-centered leaders ready to navigate complexity and lead with belonging.

Who It’s For

Leaders at all levels across human services, health, education, private sector, and community-based organizations who are seeking to expand their influence, strengthen collaboration, and drive meaningful systems and community change.

Why Join the Academy?

Build Your Capacity for Greater Impact

  • Next-Generation Leadership Skills: build skills grounded in visionary impact, workforce well-being, participatory design, generative partnerships, fostering belonging, operational impact and political literacy.
  • Expand Your Network: connect with peers nationwide who share your commitment to people-first leadership.
  • Transform Your Leadership Journey: gain tools, assessments, and practical frameworks that translate directly to real-world results.
  • Lead Boldly: turn insights into impact through a capstone Leadership Challenge.

Hands-On Resources & Tools

  • Hybrid Delivery: live virtual modules + in-person two-day sessions
  • Tool-Driven Application: assessments, interactive activities, toolkits, & action guides
  • Online Learning Community: APHSA’s Training Hub for Resources, Innovation, and Virtual Exchange Learning Management System (THRIVE LMS) 
  • Real-World Leadership Challenges: leaders apply concepts to an organizational or community challenge 
  • Built-In Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI): each module includes reflection, evaluation, and implementation tracking to align learning with impact

What Leaders Are Saying

“I have evolved as a leader. This experience gave me the tools, confidence, and community I needed to
lead with purpose and vision.”

“The sessions have been amazingly helpful and engaging.” 

“The Academy challenged me to lead differently — with purpose, compassion, and courage.” 

“I now live my leadership impact statement as a value that shows up with authenticity every time, every day.”

“I have really appreciated the participant engagement and discussions.”

“I’m always engaged and take things away.” 

What to Expect

  • Program Format: program will be presented as a hybrid model with live virtual modules and an in-person session. 
  • Session Highlights: interactive learning, leadership simulations, peer collaboration, and a leadership challenge. 
  • Featured Voices: engage with featured speakers and facilitators in person and virtually.
  • Cohort Stories: showcase success stories from previous participants. 

Key Dates for the 2026 Cohorts

  • Applications Open for Fall 2026 Cohort: NOW OPEN!
  • Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
  • Fall 2026 Cohort Program Kickoff: October 14, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Who should apply?

Leaders from public, nonprofit, community, academic, and private sectors committed to advancing human-centered leadership.

What is the time commitment?

Approximately 4 hours per month, including virtual sessions and one in-person convening.

Is there a cost to participate?

Yes, details will be available on the application page once it is live. Member discounts apply.

What makes this leadership academy unique? 

The Academy integrates research-backed leadership frameworks through a mix of engaging sessions, peer collaboration, and practical resources, strengthening participants’ leadership capacity while shaping meaningful change in their organizations and communities.

Ready to Lead Boldly?

Fall 2026 Application Now Open!

If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Trinka Landry-Bourne, Organizational Effectiveness (OE) Consultant.