Applications for 2nd Cohort of Young Women's Leadership Academy Now Open

NEW ORLEANS - The Loyola University New Orleans and Councilmember Lesli Harris Young Women’s Leadership Academy (YWLA) is expanding programming for its second year to support young women, ages 18-25, looking to grow as leaders. The workshop, which seeks to build community through leadership training, peer learning and networking, is now accepting applications.

“After the success of last year’s inaugural cohort, we are excited to offer an expanded second cohort of the program for up to 50 participants, ” said Jill Boatright, executive director for professional & continuing studies at Loyola. “This program empowers tomorrow's leaders today, fostering resilience, ambition and collaboration in every participant. Through a dynamic curriculum and networking opportunities, we cultivate a community where young women thrive, equipped with the skills and confidence to shatter glass ceilings and shape a brighter future.”

Participants will work collaboratively to understand their personalities and leadership styles, define their career goals and build their professional networks. This year, YWLA is partnering with Dress For Success New Orleans to show cohort participants the value of dressing for the job they seek. 

“Since the inception of the Young Women's Leadership Academy, it has been important to me to ensure that our cohort reflects the diversity of our city. Young women in New Orleans should have the tools and strategies that will help them reinvest back into their communities,” said Councilmember Lesli Harris. “When women have the access and ability to strive professionally, cities see more economic and educational development; I am excited to meet the Spring 2024 cohort in May.” 

This program builds on the success of the Women's Leadership Academy at Loyola. Launched in 2019, the Academy connects, educates and empowers leaders across Southeast Louisiana. Today, it's New Orleans' premier women's leadership program and the only one of its kind run by a university in New Orleans. The Academy has graduated more than 200 women and paired them with top female leaders and executives in the area in a 1:1 mentorship program.

Program Information

Applications are due April 22, 2024. Apply here.

Day 1: Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Councilmember Lesli Harris will welcome the cohort to this full-day session with guest speakers and learning modules. A networking event will end the day with Women's Leadership Academy alumnae. Light breakfast, lunch, snacks, beverages, hors d'oeuvres and mocktails at the networking event will be provided.

Day 2: Thursday, May 23, 2024

This half-day session will continue with learning modules, panel discussion, and a special presentation by our partner, Dress For Success New Orleans. Participants will end the day receiving their certificates of completion from Councilmember Lesli Harris. Light breakfast, snacks and beverages will be provided.

Cost: $399*

*Full and partial scholarships are available for those unable to afford the registration fees.