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Leadership Long Beach Institute

The 120+ hour Leadership Long Beach Institute program is offered annually from September through June. The program provides principled leadership development class sessions that focus on the pressing issues that face Long Beach.

  • The Institute program spans 10 months, challenging community leaders to build cross-sector collaborative relationships and discover ways to better serve Long Beach.
  • Participants engage in panel presentations and interactive sessions led by community leaders and subject experts to learn about local issues in the economy, government, education, arts and culture, healthcare, and social services in Long Beach.
  • Applications are open from early May through mid-July.
  • APPLICATION DEADLINE: 11:59:59 PM, July 19, 2026.

Video Courtesy of Lost Traveler Productions.

Institute Sponsors

Applications Are Open through 11:59:59 PM Sunday, July 19, 2026

Tuition: $4,995

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FAQs

Who should participate?

The Leadership Long Beach Institute is open to any adult who lives and/or works in the City of Long Beach. Through experiential learning and in-depth discussions, participants increase their knowledge of Long Beach. This program is ideal for participants who are interested in becoming integrated into an extensive network of professionals at every level in all sectors of Long Beach.

How will I benefit from participating?

The program explores current issues with key individuals and stakeholders, gaining knowledge and data to be able to make informed decisions going forward in their public, private, and nonprofit careers. The program will provide numerous opportunities to build connections and access a network of professionals and city leaders that would normally take years to cultivate.

What is the program/topic schedule?

The Institute program is designed to stay ahead of the dynamic needs of Long Beach, ensuring that our participants gain knowledge and skills that can be used to better serve our community.  Our sessions feature presentations and discussions with Long Beach leaders across all sectors, providing valuable insights and real-world perspectives.

All class sessions focus and reflect on our 14 Principles of Leadership: Integrity, Vision, Teamwork, Ethics, Compassion, Personal Responsibility, Respect, Accountability, Courage, Trusteeship, Service, Commitment, Congruence, and Values.

Class Sessions are held the first Thursday of each month from September through June, typically from 9:00 am to 5:30pm. Exceptions to this are the Retreat (October 23-25, 2026), MLK Day Parade (January 16, 2027), MLK Day of Service (January 18, 2027), and Graduation (June 10, 2027). The sessions for the 2026-2027 Institute are:

  • Thursday, September 4, 2026: Welcome & Pre-Retreat
  • Friday-Sunday, October 23-25, 2026: Retreat at Camp Oakes
  • Thursday, November 5, 2026: Education
  • Thursday, December 3, 2026: Public Safety
  • Thursday, January 7, 2027: Group Project Planning
  • Saturday, January 16, 2027: MLK Day Parade
  • Monday, January 18, 2027: MLK Day of Service
  • Thursday, February 4, 2027: City Government
  • Thursday, March 4, 2027: Nonprofit
  • Thursday, April 1, 2027: Arts and Culture
  • Thursday, May 6, 2027: Business
  • Thursday, June 3, 2027: Last Day
  • Thursday, June 10, 2027: Graduation

Absences from class are discouraged, and all participants are required to comply with absentee policy.

What are the class projects?

Participants will work in groups to create and implement a community project(s) that results in constructive benefit for the Long Beach community. These projects help to further develop our participants’ leadership through teamwork and community trusteeship. This will require engagement outside of the scheduled monthly sessions. Projects will be identified at a special class day session in late January. Then, participants are expected to gather information, collaborate with other classmates and meet with identified subject experts to deliver their project(s) before the program conclusion in June.

What is the cost?

$4,995

Leadership Long Beach has scholarships available for program participants. Eligibility requirements vary by scholarship fund. Please complete the optional “Scholarship” section of the application to be considered for one of our scholarships. Only one scholarship will be awarded per eligible candidate; multiple scholarship awards will not be awarded to a single applicant. Scholarships awards range from $1000 – $2000.

What is the application process?

Up to 35 community leaders are accepted into the Institute each year. Each year candidates are considered individually and collectively to create a uniquely dynamic class that represents Long Beach demographics as best possible. Participants are selected to ensure as equal distribution as possible of representation from the nonprofit, civic, and private sectors.

Applications are accepted in May, June, and early July. Interviews are conducted virtually over Zoom in June and July. All applicants will be interviewed by a panel of Leadership Long Beach alumni volunteer for acceptance into the Institute program. All applicants will be contacted by email the week of August 18th, 2025 to learn their participation status.

The deadline to submit applications for consideration to become a part of the Leadership Long Beach Institute Class of 2026 is midnight on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

Applications Are Closed

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Apply for Youth Leadership Long Beach
Application PDF for Reference

Youth Leadership Long Beach

Youth Leadership Long Beach is a unique opportunity for 30+ high school students to join with emerging youth leaders from Long Beach to experience an environmentally focused community leadership program.

  • Student participants will discover and enhance their leadership strengths through interactive activities and reflection opportunities.
  • Student participants will actively work to create solutions for local issues while fostering critical problem-solving skills.
  • Student participants will become well-informed community members as they advocate for environmental issues and sustainability.
  • Student participants will learn to leverage these experiences and personal connections for academic and professional advancement.

For further information, contact Maria Alderete, Director of Programs, at maria@leadershiplb.org.

Youth Leadership Sponsors

Youth Leadership Long Beach is tuition-free for students thanks to the generous contributions of the Bess J. Hodges Foundation, Dwight Stuart Youth Fund, Evelyn Bauer Foundation, Long Beach Rotary Club Foundation, Port of Long Beach, and the Rudolph J. and Daphne A. Munzer Foundation. If you or your business is interested in supporting youth leadership development in Long Beach, reach out to Matt on our team today at matt@leadershiplb.org.

faqs

WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE?

Orientation: Mid-October

Overnight Retreat: Mid-November

Class Meets: One Saturday each month from 8:30 AM – 4:30 P.M

From October – June.

Location: Each meeting will be held at a different location in Long Beach

Session Dates

Saturday, October 25 – Welcome Session

11:00am to 5:00pm


Friday, November 14 through Sunday, November 16 – Retreat

Camp Oakes in Big Bear


Saturday, December 13, 2025 – Participant Session


December Service Experience – TBD


Saturday, January 10, 2026 – Participant Session


Saturday, January 17, 2026 – MLK Parade

8:30am to 12:00pm


Monday, January 19, 2026 – MLK Day of Service

8:30am to 1:00pm


Thursday, February 5, 2026 – City Hall Day

8:00am to 5:00pm


Saturday, March 14, 2026 – Participant Session


March Service Experience – TBD


Saturday, April 11, 2026 – Participant Session


April Service Experience – TBD


Saturday, May 9, 2026 – Participant Session


May Service Experience – TBD


Saturday, June 20, 2026 – Graduation

Executive Leadership Series

A 5-Week Leadership Experience for Senior and Mid-Level Executives.

Relevance. Adaptability. Impact.

In today’s fast-changing world, experience alone isn’t enough. The leaders who thrive are those who blend wisdom with curiosity, agility, and emotional intelligence.

This immersive program brings together senior and mid-level executives to sharpen their leadership edge, build trusted peer networks, and define the legacy they want to leave.

The Experience

Format: 5 weekly sessions

Structure: 4 hours of guided learning + curated conversation after each session

Cohort Size: 12-20 executives

Approach: Expert insights, group building, reflection, and real-world problem solving.

What You’ll Gain

A Fresh Lens on Leadership – Practical tools to stay relevant.

A Trusted Network – Deeper relationships through shared learning.

Applied Solutions – Frameworks for today’s real leadership challenges.

Personal Clarity – A clear vision of your legacy and next chapter.

Who Should Join

Senior executives re-energizing on their leadership journey.

Mid-level leaders preparing for greater influence.

Professionals ready to turn wisdom into impact.

This is not a lecture. It’s a premium leadership experience that challenges your thinking, expands your network, and equips you to lead with wisdom and principles. 

Weekly Themes

Classes meet weekly from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesdays from April 14th to May 12th.

 

Week 1 – The Modern Elder

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Reframe your value. Blend wisdom with curiosity to stay relevant.


Week 2 – Adaptability in Action

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Build resilience in the face of disruption. Lead change with clarity.

Week 3 – Leading Across Generations
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Bridge divides and unlock the power of intergenerational teams.

 

Week 4 – Emotional Intelligence as a Leadership Edge
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Use empathy and EQ to influence, inspire, and navigate complexity.

 

Week 5 – Legacy and Impact

Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Clarify your leadership imprint. Create your “Wisdom Manifesto.”

  • ELS is a 5-week program specifically crafted to address the unique needs of executive leaders in Long Beach.
  • The program ensures meaningful interaction by maintaining a small group size, fostering in-depth discussions among executive leaders and aspirants.
  • Unlike generic leadership programs, ELS combines instructional, experiential, group learning, and reflection activities to provide a comprehensive and distinctive learning experience.
  • Whether you're a novice or a seasoned executive, ELS is designed to elevate your leadership skills to the next level.
  • ELS goes beyond traditional programs, offering a holistic approach to leadership development through a blend of instructional methods, practical experiences, and reflective practices.

Executive Leadership Series Sponsors

Learn More Notify me when applications open

Applications Opening Soon

Subscribe to be Notified of the Next Application Cycle

$2,995

Apply Today

Featured Facilitator

Damon Colaluca

Founder & Principal Consultant
C&A: Social Impact Consulting

Damon Colaluca is a seasoned leadership strategist who helps executives turn bold visions into lasting results. As Founder of C&A: Social Impact Consulting, he partners with leaders to navigate change, sharpen their strengths, and build high-performing teams. In the Executive Leadership Series, Damon guides participants to reflect on the wisdom gained from their careers, bridge generational perspectives, and craft a lasting legacy of leadership. His facilitation style is engaging, practical, and designed to spark meaningful growth and connection.

FAQs

Who should participate?

The program is designed for executive leaders of Long Beach organizations and companies. The program’s group size is kept small to provide more interaction and create meaningful discussions.

How will I benefit from participating?

ELS provides relevant and meaningful information on Long Beach government, business, and community through presentations and discussions with leaders who are shaping the city’s future. The program provides an opportunity to build connections and access to a network of city leaders and professionals that would normally take years to cultivate.

What topics are covered during the year?

Orientation & Leadership Assessment

Building Teams Through Trust

Executive Communication Skills

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Selfcare and Wellness

What is the program schedule?

This cohort will meet once a week for four consecutive weeks. Class sessions will begin at 12 PM and conclude at 8 PM. Lunch and Dinner will be provided. Each session is held in a different location around Long Beach to help build connections throughout the community.

Thursday, May 2nd
Thursday, May 9th
Thursday, May 16 th
Thursday, May 23rd
Thursday, May 30th
 

The dinners provide additional opportunities for sharing, learning and connecting.

What is the cost?

$2,995

 

How do I apply?

Applications will close on April 17th

Please click on the button below and fill out the application form.  You will then be contacted by our staff for additional professional information and program payment.

Learn More Apply Now

Youth Environmental Leaders

Do you know a middle schooler who is passionate about saving the planet?  This program will engage students by exploring elements of environmental leadership and learning what they can do to advocate for a sustainable future!

  • Welcomes students with a deep interest in environmental topics, regardless of prior expertise, fostering a passion for learning.
  • Provides a unique group-training program focusing on principled leadership, empowering youth to become community trustees and tackle challenges through individual responsibility.
  • Highlights the vital role of STEM fields in the community, broadening students' understanding of the impact of science and technology.
  • The program covers Environmental Sustainability, Green Jobs, Urban Agriculture, Plastics and Pollution, Leadership Strengths, Finding your Growth Zone, and Nature in Long Beach, offering a comprehensive exploration of environmental education and leadership skills.

Youth Leadership Sponsors

FAQs

Who should participate?

The program is designed for current middle school students that live or go to public or private schools in Long Beach. This program is eligible for students who are about to enter the 7th, 8th or 9th grade during the 2022-23 school year.

We are looking to bring in students who are interested in beginning their environmental leadership journey. Students do not have to excel in these areas but should show a deep interest in learning more about these topics.

How will I benefit?

The Youth Leadership Long Beach program is a unique opportunity for area high school students to join with emerging youth leaders from other schools to experience a group-training program based on principled leadership. It empowers youth to accept roles as community trustees and the importance of solving the community’s challenges through individual responsibility. In addition, this program aims highlight important role STEM fields play in our community.

What topics are covered during the workshop series?

This workshop series will provide students with a jumpstart in Environmental Education concepts and build leadership skills along the way.

Here are just a few of the topics this program covers!

  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Green Jobs
  • Urban Agriculture
  • Plastics and Pollution
  • Leadership Strengths
  • Finding your Growth Zone
  • Nature in Long Beach
What is the program schedule?

This program will be offered twice during the summer of 2022

Cohort 1 August 16-19th

Cohort 2 August 23-26th

 

All Workshop Sessions are from 10 AM-2 PM

Note: Lunch is included

What is the cost?

There is no charge for the youth to participate in the program. The youth program is generously sponsored by community foundations, Leadership Long Beach alumni and other groups who value the the future leaders of our city. We take care to find students who are passionate and committed to the goals of this program; to improve themselves and Long Beach.

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our principles

The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. It is generally a personal choice to uphold oneself to consistent moral and ethical standards.  

The possibilities we see in the context of our core values; a picture of what we want “it” to be.  

The collaborative effort of a group of people to willingly achieve a common goal or complete a shared task.

Standards of duty and virtue that indicate how we should behave; involves two aspects:

1) the ability to discern right from wrong, good from evil, and propriety from impropriety;

2) the commitment to do what is right, regardless of temptations and pressures otherwise

The feeling of sympathy and concern for the suffering of others coupled with the desire to help to alleviate it.

To take responsibility for our lives. Instead of blaming circumstances, conditions, or chance for our behavior, we choose our own responses and make our own decisions.

To honor and value ourselves first and then others or, we choose our own responses and make our own decisions.

To be counted on to keep our word; to do what we say we will do. 

To dare to take action; to take a personal stand.

To hold in trust, take responsibility for, protect, and act on behalf of an asset; stewardship.

The action of helping or doing work from someone else.

To devote ourselves to a purpose and/or person.

Agreement or harmony; compatibility

The regard that something is held to deserve; the importance, worth, or usefulness of something

Since 1989, Leadership Long Beach (LLB), through its principled leadership programs, helped inspire, create and cultivate more than 2,000 community-engaged alumni to give back to Long Beach.

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Address

Leadership Long Beach

4401 Atlantic Avenue

Suite 200

Long Beach, CA 90807

Phone

(562) 997-9194

Email

info@leadershiplb.org

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Leadership Long Beach Institute

Applications for our Institute Program are being accepted through midnight on Sunday, july 13, 2025.

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