Leadership Advancement Program 2026

The Leadership Advancement Program (LAP) is an action-packed, year-long program that includes: 2 classroom intensives, 3 community-based regional experiences, 2 virtual cohort projects, and 1 international travel experience to Northern Patagonia. The LAP is designed for leaders who are committed to strengthening their leadership skills and empowering their communities and organizations to lead for the common good. This transformational leadership experience offers a mixed approach to learning designed around meaningful reflection and application. We will explore complex issues related to agriculture, natural resources, community development, conservation, food systems, sustainability, agribusiness and more.

The Leadership Advancement Program is an all-inclusive experience. The $6,000 tuition covers comprehensive educational materials designed and delivered by experts as well as the cost of all meals, lodging, international travel and airfare. The value of the program for each individual is over three times the cost of tuition. Individuals are responsible for their transportation to and from the Michigan meeting sites. As an investment in your professional development, your employer may be willing to assist with all or a portion of your tuition. A limited number of need-based scholarships are available. Tuition is due by Feb. 1, 2026.

Program Timeline 

Orientation - Virtual Orientation
Date: Jan. 22, 2026

Classroom Intensive (Bay City, MI)
Dates: Feb. 9-11, 2026

Classroom Intensive (Bay City, MI)
Dates: March 9-11, 2026

Virtual Session
Date: May 7, 2026

Regional Experience: Agriculture and Food Systems (Hart, MI)
Dates: June 22-24, 2026

Regional Experience: Community Development (Detroit, MI)
Dates: Aug. 3-5, 2026

Regional Experience: Conservation, Natural Resource, and Environment (Upper Peninsula, MI)
Dates: Sept. 13-16, 2026

1 day in-person Session
Date: November TBD

International Travel Experience (Northern Patagonia)
Dates: Jan. 15-26, 2027

Graduation (East Lansing, MI)
Dates: Feb. 22-24, 2027

Please hold all dates on your calendar, you are required to attend all listed LAP sessions.