A recent study by the National Community Leadership Collaborative (NCLC) examined over a decade of alumni from programs across the country. The findings are inspiring: these programs equip leaders to understand complex community challenges, forge diverse networks, and confidently drive positive change. Most importantly, they develop the critical ability to communicate across differences—a skill our nation needs now more than ever.

As the 2024 election draws near, the divides in our nation—political, generational, and cultural—are more pronounced than ever. Yet, while much of the conversation focuses on polarization, community leadership programs across the country are quietly cultivating leaders with the skills to bridge these gaps and foster inclusive dialogue.

With over 1,000 Community Leadership Programs (CLPs) nationwide, these initiatives educate more than 25,000 leaders each year, equipping them to drive meaningful change in their regions. From Tulsa to Cleveland to Seattle, former directors of these programs have witnessed firsthand the power of relationships, listening, and community stewardship to unite people across differences.

In a time of heightened division, the lessons of community leadership—building trust, listening across differences, and leading with curiosity—are more critical than ever. As our nation prepares to face the challenges of a new election cycle, CLPs offer a hopeful model for how we can come together to build stronger, more inclusive communities.

Alumni Spotlight: G.T. Bynum, Mayor of Tulsa
Organization: City of Tulsa
Community Leadership Program: Leadership Tulsa

Mayor G.T. Bynum credits Leadership Tulsa with transforming his understanding of the city and shaping his leadership style. Having returned to Tulsa after living out of state, the program gave him a deeper perspective on the city’s challenges and opportunities.

At the National Community Leadership Collaborative (NCLC), we honor leaders who have demonstrated the power of bridging divides and creating community connections. Today, we highlight the journey of Councilmember Rudolph “Rudy” K. Metayer of Pflugerville, Texas, a graduate of Leadership Austin’s Emerge Class of 2011 and Essentials Class of 2015. Rudy’s story showcases the transformative power of leadership programs in helping leaders navigate differences and foster a more inclusive community.

Building Bridges: Real Stories of Leadership and Impact

The National Community Leadership Collaborative (NCLC) is a mindtrust of community leadership programs from coast to coast who want to grow impact in their communities and regions as well as collectively across the country by working together. Get to know our national movement by meeting alumni from various programs across the country.

Martha Choe's story is a testament to the power of community leadership programs like Leadership Tomorrow. From envisioning a vibrant downtown Seattle to influencing state-level decisions and fostering decades-long relationships, her journey shows how these programs can create a ripple effect of positive change, transforming both individuals and their communities for the better.

Mayor Aftab Pureval’s story illustrates the transformative power of community leadership programs. From addressing complex local issues to staying committed to his city when faced with personal career crossroads, his journey reflects how investing in local leadership can create ripples of positive change far beyond any single program or individual.

Mayor Craig Greenberg’s story demonstrates how community leadership programs can play a critical role in shaping not just the careers of individual leaders but also the future of entire cities. His journey from Leadership Louisville and Bingham Fellows to the Mayor’s Office exemplifies the power of connection, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to community.

Through his leadership, Craig is now working to ensure that Louisville continues to thrive, drawing on the lessons, partnerships, and insights gained through his involvement in these transformative programs.