Emerging Leaders Program

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs is soliciting nominations for its Emerging Leaders Program, Class of 2015. The Council seeks a diverse group of approximately 20 exceptional individuals who are in tune with global trends and who can spot and react smartly to the fast-paced events that will shape Chicago’s future. 

To nominate a highly talented individual with exceptional leadership qualities, please submit this nomination form (PDF), a letter of recommendation, and the candidate’s résumé to The Chicago Council no later than Friday, February 1, 2013. Upon receipt, we will notify candidates of their nomination and ask them to complete a separate application. 

The Chicago Council's Emerging Leaders Program, established in 2008, identifies young leaders making decisions that will equip Chicago to compete and thrive in the global era. Each year a selection committee identifies a new class of about twenty to twenty-two leaders to participate in the two-year program.

During the first year, the Emerging Leaders meet as a group in a series of seminars to examine timely issues such as the global economy, foreign policy, the environment and climate change, education, energy, and migration. In the second year, they work with Chicago Council staff to define, develop, and produce a report on a pressing global challenge that affects Chicago and the Midwest. The two-year term concludes with representatives of the class presenting their recommendations at a Chicago Council public program.

Support for the Emerging Leaders Program is generously provided by Chicago Council Vice Chairs John F. Manley and Shirley Welsh Ryan and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.