Applications are now open for the Emerging Leadership Program and the Intercultural Leadership Program. Learn more and apply now until June 5th. Click here to learn more about the programs.

Emerging Leaders Program (ELP)

ELP Photo

"Leadership, at its core, is about making other people better as a result of your presence--and making sure that the impact lasts in your absence."

-Sheryl Sandberg

About the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP)

 

The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is a nine-month leadership development experience designed for Tulane University employees seeking to strengthen their leadership effectiveness, expand their influence, and drive meaningful institutional impact. Open to faculty and staff, the program supports leaders at various stages of their journey by building core capabilities in self-awareness, communication, decision-making, and leading others in complex environments.


Through practical, application-focused learning and real-world scenarios, participants deepen their leadership practice while building meaningful connections across the university.


Graduates of the ELP earn a certificate and digital badge, recognizing their commitment to continuous growth and their role within a network of leaders dedicated to advancing Tulane’s mission, fostering collaboration, and leading sustainable change across the university.

 

What to Expect


• Targeted Leadership Development – Strengthen core leadership capabilities, including self-awareness, communication, decision-making, and leading others in complex environments.

• Applied, Experiential Learning – Engage in interactive sessions, real-world scenarios, practical exercises, and personalized coaching designed for immediate application in your role.

• Cross-University Collaboration – Build meaningful connections and learn alongside peers from across Tulane, gaining diverse perspectives and insights.

• Real-World Impact – Bring current challenges and opportunities into the learning experience and apply new skills to drive meaningful outcomes that contribute to Tulane’s growth and impact.

Program Goals

Through the program, participants will:
 

  • Build a strong network of emerging leaders—Connect high-potential Tulane staff and faculty across departments to foster collaboration, shared learning, and a welcoming leadership community.

    Strengthen leadership knowledge and capabilities—Develop the skills, competencies, and confidence needed to lead effectively in today’s evolving organizational environment.

  • Deepen understanding of Tulane’s mission and impact—Gain a broader perspective of Tulane as an interconnected community of faculty, staff, students, and partners working toward Knowledge for Good.

    Explore leadership challenges and opportunities—Engage in thoughtful dialogue around real-world leadership topics, institutional priorities, and the opportunities shaping Tulane’s future. 

    Inspire innovation, collaboration, and meaningful change—Apply leadership learning to create positive impact through initiatives that support Tulane’s mission and contribute to the vitality of the New Orleans community.

     

Curriculum

Aligned with the goals of the program, the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is designed to support participants in navigating leadership opportunities at Tulane with greater confidence, clarity, and intention.

The curriculum integrates foundational leadership concepts with real-world application and opportunities for reflection and coaching, creating a learning experience that is both practical and relevant. Grounded in best practice adult learning principles, the program incorporates a variety of interactive approaches to encourage engagement, deepen self-awareness, and support meaningful growth.

Through this transformative experience, participants build the awareness, skills, and adaptability needed to lead effectively within their roles and contribute to the broader Tulane community.

The ELP will run from August 2026 through April 2027, featuring thoughtfully sequenced monthly learning experiences. Each month follows a structured 4-week cycle that integrates both synchronous and asynchronous learning, including a 3.5-hour in-person workshop, an asynchronous learning week, a 2-hour virtual practicum and reflection session, and a team coaching session with TULI coaches. This intentional design reinforces learning, encourages continuous reflection, and ensures participants can immediately apply new skills in their day-to-day leadership practice.


The dates for the live group learning sessions are outlined in the 2026-2027 Syllabus and Curriculum guide. Please note that these dates are tentative and may be subject to change.

Emerging Leadership Program Application

Each year, only 30 participants are selected to take part in this high-impact program, ensuring meaningful engagement, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The curriculum evolves annually to reflect the latest leadership research and organizational needs, preparing participants to thrive in Tulane’s ever-changing landscape. Review the details below to learn more about the application process and check your eligibility.

To be considered for the 2026-2027 ELP Cohort, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Employment and Tenure at Tulane. 
    • Applicants must be employed full-time and have at least 2 consecutive years of employment at Tulane University prior to the 2026-2027 Program Orientation in August 2026.
  • Leadership Experience
    • Applicants must have experience leading individuals, committees, and/or teams in their current role. This includes managing projects, overseeing team performance, mentoring colleagues, or holding positions of leadership within a department or team.
    • You do not have to be in a current supervisory role to qualify for the ELP.
    • Leadership experience must be confirmed by the applicant's Reporting Supervisor through a written verification of their leadership responsibilities in the required Supervisor Letter of Support as part of the application process.
  • Supervisor Support
    • Applicants must have the full support of their Reporting Supervisor to participate in the program. This includes commitment to support the applicant's development throughout the program and to allow them to dedicate time to the program's requirements (workshops, Zoom meetings, Coaching sessions, asynchronous assignments, etc.)
    • A written statement of support from the applicant’s Reporting Supervisor is required as part of the application.
  • Demonstrated Commitment to Growth and Development. 
    • Applicants should demonstrate a strong desire for personal and professional growth and be ready to enhance their leadership abilities through structured learning and development opportunities.
  • Current Role Alignment. 
    • Applicants must be employed by Tulane University in a role where they have the opportunity to actively apply leadership skills, influence decision-making, and contribute to the success of their team or department.


To apply for the 2026-2027 Emerging Leaders Program (ELP), applicants must submit the following materials:
 

  • ELP Applicant Questionnaire. 
    • Applicants must complete the official ELP Application Questionnaire, providing details about your professional background, leadership experience, and career aspirations. This questionnaire helps us understand your goals and how the program aligns with your development.
      • Save as: [LastName]_[FirstName]_ELPQuestionnaire.pdf
        Example: Fleming_Kim_ELPQuestionnaire.pdf
         
  • Letter of Support from Supervisor. 
    • A written endorsement from your supervisor confirming their support for your participation in all aspects of the program. This letter should highlight your leadership experience, leadership potential, contributions to your team, and how the ELP can further your growth.
      • Save as: [LastName]_[FirstName]_ELPletter.pdf
        Example: Fleming_Kim_ELPletter.pdf
         
    • ELP Letter of Support Template located under the “How to Apply” section.
       
  • Updated CV/Resumé. 
    • A current CV or resumé outlining your professional experience, skills, and accomplishments. This document provides insight into your career progression and leadership journey.a
      • Save as: [LastName]_[FirstName]_ELPresume.pdf
        Example: Fleming_Kim_ELPresume.pdf
         

All materials must be prepared and submitted via the ELP Application Submission Form by the application deadline to be considered.

 

To be considered for the 2026-2027 Emerging Leaders Program, applicants must submit a completed application via Qualtrics.

  • Review the 2026-2027 ELP Syllabus and Curriculum 
     
  • Confirm Eligibility. 
    • Review the Applicant Criteria above to ensure you meet the requirements for the program.
       
  • Gather Required Materials. 
  • Submit Your Application.
    • Access the 2026-2027 ELP Application Form via the link below. (available in 2026)
    • Complete the online Qualtrics form (approx. 10 minutes).
    • Upload your application documents.
       

All materials must be submitted by the deadline to be considered.

If you meet the above criteria for the ELP, we would love to receive your application.

Apply now until June 5th for the 2026 - 2027 Cohort below!