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.