Leadership Academy
Developing strong, confident, impactful leaders in aging services
Leadership Development for Aging Services Professionals
Leadership Academy is a nine-month, cohort-based program that delivers high-impact, mission-aligned leadership development for emerging and mid-level leaders in aging services. Through leadership curriculum, coaching, experiential learning, and personal reflection, participants build the confidence, skills, and mindset to lead teams, support staff, and deliver exceptional care. Graduates leave more capable, more self-assured, and better prepared to lead with purpose.
Program Impact
What Leadership Academy Graduates Develop
Alumni of the program report meaningful development in the following areas
Leadership confidence
Feeling confident and self-assured in decision-making
Navigating conflict
Growth in having difficult conversations and leading teams
Coaching skills
Shifting from fixing problems to empowering staff
Authentic leadership
Self-awareness, alignment with personal leadership values, and knowing how to set boundaries
Hear from a leadership academy alumni
“I am truly excited about the tools I received during Leadership Academy. I feel more confident as a leader and gained an invaluable amount of knowledge. I also benefitted from the experiences the other students shared. I will be able to use the tools, knowledge and networking to improve my community.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to participate?
Leadership Academy welcomes aging services professionals at all stages of their leadership journey, regardless of job title or supervisory experience. The program is ideal for individuals currently leading teams or processes, preparing for greater leadership responsibilities or seeking to grow professionally. A minimum of two years of experience in aging services is recommended, but a formal leadership title is not required. Applicants must be employees of a LeadingAge Minnesota member-organization.
What will I learn?
Participants develop essential leadership skills through four core areas: authentic leadership, critical thinking and emotional intelligence, leading people and teams, and leading change and innovation. The program emphasizes practical skills such as effective communication, conflict resolution, decision-making, coaching and navigating organizational change. Participants also complete an Action Learning Project that applies their learning to a real-world organizational challenge.
What is the time commitment?
Leadership Academy combines in-person workshops, virtual learning sessions, coaching and independent activities over approximately nine months. Participants should expect to dedicate an additional 10–15 hours per month to program activities outside scheduled workshops. Some in-person sessions may require travel and overnight accommodations.
How much does it cost, and are scholarships available?
Tuition for the 2026 Leadership Academy was $2,150, covering program materials, assessments, continuing education units and select meals during in-person sessions. Participants are responsible for travel and lodging expenses. Limited scholarships covering partial or full tuition may be available through the LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation based on financial need.