LGBT Leadership Institute Applications are Due July 15th

The LGBT Leadership Institute develops leaders in the LGBTQIA+ community. The program provides historical perspective of the community and the LGBT equality movement, enhances leadership skills, and prepares the next generation of diverse leaders for greater community engagement.

• Provide a safe and nurturing environment to develop skills and explore the critical issues facing the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Promote networking, dialog, and collaboration among leaders from across the community.
• Encourage participants to apply their talent and skills to the benefit of the LGBTQ and the overall community.

Alumni Testimonials

"The LGBT Leadership Institute strengthened my resolve as an Ally. It was an eye-opening experience as an Ally and as a first-generation Mexican-American to listen and learn of the history, challenges, advocacy, and wins of the community." - Maria Espinosa (Class of 2020) Sr. Manager, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Brinker International

"The program was beyond my expectations. I was able to connect with community leaders and learn about issues of our community. It provided the opportunity for me to be exposed to powerful leaders, in addition to unveiling to the diverse needs in the community." - Dr. Antoinette Oliver, SHRM-SCP (Class of 2022) Chief People Officer, Alliance for Children

"At one session, women from the House of Rebirth discussed the trans experience for women of color. Hearing their stories catapulted me on my ally journey. That’s something I took away from the LGBT Leadership Institute that continues to hold value for me." - Larry Nelson Gullen, CDE, CDT, SHRM-SCP (Class of 2020) Senior Talent Management Product Manager, American Family Insurance

From September 2024 through May 2025, the LGBT Leadership Institute class will meet once a month, usually the second Friday of the month from 9am-4pm.

In addition to leadership skills development and LGBTQ history, topics include:

• DEI
• Community Organizing
• Economic Development
• Strategic Planning
• City Governments
• ESG
• Corporate Strategy
• Small Business Ecosystem
• And More

The cost is $2000 for the semester. Financial aid is available. It can be requested in the application.

Questions? Contact Lisa Howe, (214) 865-7313 or lisa.howe@lgbtchamber.com