empowering leaders for sustainable communities

As the fields of community planning, resource management, and urban development have evolved over the last 30 years, so has the need for robust mentorship and leadership training. Organizations across various sectors, including the Society of Municipal Arborists (SMA) Municipal Forestry Institute (MFI), the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), and others, have developed valuable leadership training platforms. These programs, along with those from our professional peers such as the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), Indiana University's Executive Leadership Development Program, and the American Public Works Association’s Emerging Leaders Academy, provide a strong foundation in organizational leadership.

Recognizing the growing challenges posed by climate change, societal, and political pressures, a diverse group of conservation leaders came together to advance this next-level leadership opportunity.

The Green Communities Leadership Institute (GCLI) offers a platform for experienced leaders in urban planning, stormwater management, municipal forestry, parks and recreation, city management, and other related fields to enhance their skills. Our Core Leadership Team is dedicated to equipping mid to upper-level managers with the tools they need to succeed and thrive. The Institute fosters a community of leaders who grow together, tackle tough challenges, and build creative solutions for a more resilient future for our communities, industries, and professions.

During the naming process for our leadership program, the core leadership team wanted to highlight the desired outcomes rather than the resources managed. The name "Green Communities Leadership Institute" was chosen to emphasize our commitment to empowering leaders to create sustainable and environmentally friendly communities. The Institute focuses on enhancing leaders' impact and influence in building greener, more resilient communities.

The Green Communities Leadership Institute (GCLI) distinguishes itself by offering advanced leadership development that complements existing industry programs without competing with them. While many institutes provide foundational leadership training, GCLI focuses on next-level skills through a collaborative environment. Participants benefit from six weeks of educational content, including interactive online modules, webinars, and a face-to-face synthesis session.

A key differentiator is our strong alumni network, fostering long-term professional relationships that support and enhance leaders in their roles. Many alumni have advanced into higher-level leadership positions after completing the course. This network allows alumni to continuously learn from each other, share experiences, and collaborate on initiatives to build sustainable communities. The shared leadership experience with the Institute Core Leadership Team, instructors, and cohorts ensures a lasting impact on both individual and community levels.

The Institute curriculum is designed around a three-dimensional leadership model comprised of: Individual, Organizational, and Society/Community domains. The Institute focuses on three tangible outcomes: (1) Expanding Personal Leadership Influence and Competencies; (2) Increasing Organizational Leadership Impact; (3) Growing Community Leadership Capacity.

Tuition for the full three-month cohort experience is $1,800. Attendees are responsible for covering their travel and lodging for the in person education in Boise. This investment includes comprehensive educational content, interactive learning modules, webinars, and a valuable in-person session. Previous in-person sessions have been held in Corvallis, OR, and Knoxville, TN, and the upcoming session will be in Boise, ID. Participants gain access to a robust network of professionals, long-term mentoring, and opportunities to advance into higher-level leadership positions. Alumni report significant career growth and enhanced leadership capabilities, making this an invaluable experience for mid to upper-level managers.

At the Green Communities Leadership Institute (GCLI), we believe in the power of community and shared leadership. Our institute operates on a cohort model, bringing together accepted participants from across the country and various natural resources fields to form a close-knit team. This approach allows participants to engage deeply with diverse guest speakers and the cross-sector members of our core leadership team. More importantly, it fosters collaborative learning and growth among cohort members themselves.

Central to our philosophy is our shared leadership model. We believe that leadership is not about individual achievement but about collective empowerment and collaboration. At GCLI, every participant has the opportunity to contribute their unique perspectives and skills, shaping the institute's direction and impact. This shared leadership approach not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares our attendees to lead effectively in their respective fields and communities.

The Green Communities Leadership Institute offers a dynamic schedule designed to maximize learning, collaboration, and connection among participants. The upcoming cohort, running from January to March 2025, promises an enriching experience through a blend of virtual and in-person sessions.

Participants will engage in four virtual weeks from January to February, featuring interactive sessions with industry experts and peers. Each week requires approximately 5 hours of commitment, allowing for deep dives into leadership principles and practical applications.

In February, a dedicated virtual week unfolds with a total commitment of about 8 hours spread across daily 60-90 minute webinars. This intensive period offers focused discussions and skill-building exercises, fostering meaningful connections and knowledge exchange.

Culminating the experience is a pivotal in-person week-long session starting March 31st in Boise, Idaho. This immersive gathering provides unparalleled networking opportunities, hands-on workshops, and site visits to local sustainability initiatives. Participants will collaborate closely with our core leadership team and esteemed guest speakers, gaining insights that transcend traditional learning environments.

APPLICATION PERIOD: JULY 8 - SEPTEMBER 9, 2024

Thank you for your interest in joining a cohort for the Green Communities Leadership Institute. 

The Institute is designed for any leader working to create more sustainable communities, encompassing a variety of professions and industries. The Institute is designed around a cohort model, where rather than registering, people will apply through a competitive process to be selected for an annual cohort. Each cohort will encompass a diverse group of individuals working in spaces that include, but are not limited to: urban forestry/arboriculture, urban and regional planning, landscape architecture, natural resources, civil/water engineering, energy, healthcare, park supervision, community leadership and organizing, public works management, and many others.

Before you dig in, here's what you can expect to share in this cohort application: 

• Basic contact information

• Your most recent resume/CV and a link to your LinkedIn page

• Answers to a handful of questions that focus on you: as an individual, in your job, and in leadership roles outside of work

• Details on how you heard about the Green Communities Leadership Institute 

• At least two (2) letters of support from professional contacts who would recommend you for the Institute.

CLICK HERE FOR THE 2025 APPLICATION

CLICK HERE FOR APPLICANT LETTER OF SUPPORT