America's Leaders of Change are current public service leaders chosen from the National Urban Fellows alumni and mentor networks. Leaders of Change are also community leaders from throughout the nation.

Cohorts represent high potential leaders of color and women in public service. All participants meet or exceed the following criteria:

• Currently holds a leadership position
• Aspirations for a position of higher leadership authority in three to five years
• Possesses a track record of leadership performance and impact
• Demonstrates civic leadership and a commitment to social justice
• Provides assurance to fully participate in all program activities
  1. attendance at forums and monthly webinars
  2. allocate time for participation in peer and executive coaching sessions
  3. other preparation time that may be required
• Willingness to co-invest by paying for or allocating resources to cover the cost of travel expenses to and from forums (Hotel, food and other program costs will be supported by National Urban Fellows through Walmart sponsorship).

Program Elements

The America’s Leaders of Change program consists of the following program elements. Combined with supporting activities and assignments, the following curriculum allows participants to build a conscious leadership practice that is effective and powerful; supporting National Urban Fellows as a catalyst for excellence and diversity in public service leadership in America.

• 360˚ Assessment
• Four Live Forums
• Monthly Webinars
• Networking
• Peer Coaching
• Executive Coaching
• Individual Leadership Development Plan (ILDP)
• Homework and Reading Assignments

Continuing Support and Network

National Urban Fellows and program partners are committed to the ongoing support of the leaders of change who complete the Program.  An Alumni Leadership Network has been established to offer continuing leadership development, celebrate accomplishments, and offer collective support to leaders as they face challenges and explore opportunities.

Staff and Partners

National Urban Fellows 

Paula Gavin, President, Bobbi Hahn, Director of Operations, Mohamed Soliman, Program Coordinator and Jason Leon, Alumni and Social Media Manager provide leadership, strategic direction, and logistical support for America’s Leaders of Change. 

Kansas University

KansasUniversity is the University partner of the America’s Leaders of Change. Successful graduates of the program receive a certificate of completion from KansasUniversity. Professors John Nalbandian and Charles Jones of KansasUniversity’s Schoolof Public Managementwork with DKBWAVE and National Urban Fellows to provide expertise in the area of public administration and public service management. 

Walmart Stores, Inc.

Is a key partner and presenting sponsor of America’s Leaders of Change.  Walmart provides leadership support  and helps to identify speakers that complement the America’s Leaders of Change curriculum.  Ronnette Smith, Corporate Affairs Sr. Manager for Walmart is the program leadership partner and corporate liaison.