Local Government Leadership Intensive
Friday, Oct. 9, 2026
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. ET
Do you serve in local government and frequently deal with complex challenges? Could you benefit from fresh perspectives of other public servants making a difference in their communities? The Great Lakes Leadership Academy (GLLA) and MSU Extension are partnering to offer a 1-day leadership intensive for local government staff and elected or appointed officials.
Leadership can happen from any chair. Whether you’re an elected or appointed official, department head, or staff member, you have leadership potential to develop and an important role to play in your organization and community.
Through this highly interactive 1-day Local Government Leadership Intensive, designed in partnership with the Great Lakes Leadership Academy, participants will explore their leadership approach while applying what they learn to a relevant, real-world leadership challenge. Participants will:
- Explore their unique leadership path and what it means to be a values-guided leader.
- Identify and examine a relevant leadership challenge through the lens of personal and shared values.
- Learn with and from others through facilitated activities while setting a strategic goal and actionable next steps.
Course Fee
Regular registration is $125 per participant. The course fee covers registration, course materials, and lunch.
Early bird registration, at $95 per participant, closes on Sept. 24, 2026.
Limited scholarships are available. If you would like to apply for a scholarship, please email Eric Walcott at walcott3@msu.edu.
Course Location
The program will be held at Grand Traverse County Government Center - 400 Boardman Ave., Traverse City, MI 49684
Cancellations
Registrations cancelled on or after Oct. 1, 2026, will be assessed a $25 cancellation fee.
Registration for Local Government Leadership Intensive is open.
Registration closes at 11:59 p.m. ET on October 5, 2026.
There are 30 openings available.
Accommodations
Michigan State University Extension programs, services events, and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, or veteran status. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting the event contact two weeks prior to the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.
Contact Information
For more information, contact Eric Walcott at walcott3@msu.edu.