Session Logistics:
As we remain flexible to COVID-19 considerations, we’ll host the 2021 program exclusively online.
Who Should Apply:
This program is open to Michigan women with a demonstrated interest in serving as local government managers.
Program Cost:
We are proud of our commitment to keep this opportunity financially accessible. This five-month training is supported by the Michigan Municipal League along with a number of generous sponsors – and is provided cost-free to selected participants.
Application Requirements:
Complete application (online form) including supporting documents.
Application & Acceptance Timeline:
Applications for the 2021 Women’s Municipal Leadership Program will be accepted until June 16. Chosen applicants will be notified in early July.
Participation Expectation:
WMLP is a competitive program, with significantly more qualified applicants than spots available. For those accepted, the program incorporates practical topic education, personal leadership development, and interactive dialogue that rely on active participation for best results. For these reasons, participation in all five sessions is expected.
2021 Program Details
Program Dates
August 19-20
September 9-10
October 28-29
November 18-19
December 9-10
Program Location
Virtual
Program Deadlines
Application Deadline: Wednesday, June 16
Acceptance Notifications: early July
Curriculum at a Glance
Tentative
- Session I: August 19 & 20
- Session II: September 9 & 10
- Session III: October 28 & 29
- Session IV: November 11 & 12
- Session V: December 9 & 10
VIRTUAL SESSION
| Thursday, August 19 | |
| 9:00 am – 9:30 am | Welcome, Program Overview, Introductions & Purpose |
| 9:30 am – 12:30 pm | Eight Key Financial Areas Every Manager Should Know: Part I – Budgeting Karen Lancaster |
| Friday, August 20 | |
| 9:00 am – 11:30 am | Leadership & Executive Development Heidi Frye, President, UpWords, Inc. |
VIRTUAL SESSION
| Thursday, September 9 | |
| 9:00 am – 9:30 am | Welcome |
| 9:30 am – 12:30 pm | Eight Key Financial Areas Every Manager Should Know: Part II Karen Lancaster |
| Friday, September 10 | |
| 9:00 am – 11:30 am | Leadership & Executive Development Heidi Frye, President, UpWords, Inc. |
| 11:30 am – 12:30 pm | Panel: Leadership & Success as a Woman Executive |
VIRTUAL SESSION
| Thursday, October 28 | |
| 9:00 am – 12:30 pm | Economic Development Deb Stuart |
| Friday, October 29 | |
| 9:00 am – 11:30 am | Leadership & Executive Development Heidi Frye, President, UpWords, Inc. |
| 11:30 am – 12:30 pm | Panel: Ask for More: Seeking Out Opportunities to Enhance Upward Mobility |
VIRTUAL SESSION
| Thursday, November 11 | |
| 8:00 am – 9:00 am | Local Government Roles & Responsibilities Chris Johnson |
| 9:00 am – 11:00 am | Council-Manager Relationships Victor Cardenas, Asst. City Manager, City of Novi Adam Smith, City Administrator, City of Grand Ledge |
| Friday, November 12 | |
| 9:00 am – 11:30 am | Leadership & Executive Development Heidi Frye, President, UpWords, Inc. |
VIRTUAL SESSION
| Thursday, December 9 | |
| 9:00 am – 12:30 pm | Interviewing & Negotiation Joyce Parker, Deputy State Treasurer, State of Michigan |
| Friday, December 10 | |
| 9:00 am – 11:30 am | Mock Interviews |
| 11:30 am – 12:30 pm | Leadership Wrap-Up |