Spring 2023 Indigenous Leadership Academy cohort at the Reservation Economic Summit in Las Vegas, Nevada

Indigenous Leadership Academy

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Building Leadership

The ILA is the first program inclusive of Indigenous leadership principles. The differentiating factor for this program is that it is not for just Tribal leaders, it's for emerging Indigenous leaders in Arizona and nationally. The ILA program started in January 2022 with seed funding from Arizona Public Service (APS). By collaborating with APS, various schools at ASU, and professors, we created a brand and curriculum that attracted emerging Indigenous and community leaders from Arizona and nationwide.  This signature program is committed to building the next generation of Tribal leaders. As of January 2024, we've had 112 participants, representing 51 Tribal Nations from 24 States & D.C. More than half of our cohort participants or 58% live in Arizona. 

Eligibility Criteria

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must be committed to attending all 10 meetings (January 13, 2024 - March 11, 2024)
  • Must have adequate internet for Zoom, majority of sessions are conducted virtually.
  • Must commit to all required work for the cohort
  • Must reside within the United States (US Residents Only)
  • Must have an understanding of Tribal sovereignty and Tribal communities in the United States
  • Must be age 21 or over
  • Is interested in being an emerging leader in Indian country
  • Must have a desire to positively impact your home community
  • Must have a project in mind that will benefit Indian country
  • Must be willing to expand knowledge, skills, and network
  • Must be excited to work with a diverse group of people
  • Someone who has a can-do attitude
  • Must have a desire to solve an issue
  • Must have a LinkedIn profile

Preferred Qualifications

  • Evidence of a Bachelors degree, Evidence of an AA degree, or 5 years minimum of work experience

Cost

  • The cost is $1650 for the 10-week program
  • Scholarships are available and applicants are automatically considered

Outcome

  • Upon program completion, participants will receive an ASU digital certification
ILA cohort
Indigenous Leadership Academy Inaugural Cohort Spring 2022
Photo: Roshan Spotsville/Photography by Roshan

What our participants learn

Meet our cohorts

Fall 2023

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Fall 2022

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Spring 2023

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Spring 2022

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Sponsors

The American Indian Policy Institute (AIPI) signature program Indigenous Leadership Academy works with emerging Indigenous leaders from throughout Arizona and nationally to expand their knowledge, skills, and networks to address long-term issues faced by Indigenous governments, communities, associations, and corporations. The program will inspire and motivate participants to execute strategies and lead change. There is no comparable program in the Nation.

Testimonial