Rising Leaders

 

The Rising Leaders program is specifically designed for emerging and new leaders in the Greater Buffalo area who are eager to grow in their leadership journey. This year-long program focuses on cultivating essential leadership skills, fostering personal and professional growth, and providing a deeper understanding of servant leadership principles.

 

Participants engage in monthly sessions featuring interactive workshops, peer collaboration, and connections with local organizations and thought leaders. The program equips participants with the tools and confidence to navigate leadership challenges, broaden their perspectives, and make meaningful contributions to their organizations and communities.

 

Rising Leaders is ideal for individuals in the early stages of their leadership path, offering a supportive environment to develop their potential and create a lasting impact in the Buffalo region.

 

Applications for the 2026 Cohort will open in the spring.

2025 Schedule

January 8 – Welcome Reception

January 16 and 17 – Opening Retreat

February 12 – Hunger and Poverty

March 12 – Education*

March 19 - LBU

April 16 – Criminal and Social Justice   

May 13 – Arts, Culture, History, and Tourism*

May 21 - LBU

June 4 – LBU

July 16 – Environment and Ecology*

July 23 - LBU

August 20 – Neighborhood and Transportation*

September 10 – Economic and Workforce Development*

September 17 – LBU

October 15 – Healthcare

November 13 and 14 – Closing Retreat

December 3 – Graduation

*Indicates sessions combined with the Class Experience cohort.

 

Exploring What Matters

Key issues and topics are explored throughout the program year providing an in-depth view of the critical issues facing our community. These are experienced by sharing hands-on experiences and networking with other leaders in the Buffalo Niagara community.

Such topics include Hunger and Poverty, Education, Criminal and Social Justice, Diversity, Arts and Culture, Neighborhood Discovery, Transportation, Economic Development, Ecology and Environment, and Health Care.

Tools to Make Change

Each participant will have the opportunity to create action by utilizing newly found knowledge.

Team projects are developed at the conclusion of the program year. Projects are sustainable providing continued support of the community and engagement with classmates.

Being a Better Leader

The program environment is a non-traditional form of learning. The city is our "classroom".

Throughout the year, personality assessments are conducted and participants work in teams to challenge and strengthen their leadership skills. The year focuses on Servant Leadership traits and relies on experiential learning.