Frequently Asked Questions
The Academy for Excellence in Leadership program gives organizations the tools they need to create highly customizable leadership development paths for their future leaders. Here’s what makes our program unique:
Leadership Training Forums
During each year of the two-year program, 8 one-hour webinars led by our team provide a forum for discussing key principles of leadership. Participants are required to listen to the live or recorded audio presentation. After each forum, they are also required to discuss the presentation with their guide: what they learned and what they will do about it, enforcing the process of learning to do, doing to become.
Leadership Development Goals
We believe leadership skills are best learned by doing. After each forum, participants will identify and accomplish one related goal in the next 30 days. We provide a list of potential goals and participants choose and tailor a goal to complete before the next forum.
Guides
The process of learning new principles and skills is almost always easier when accompanied by someone who has previously walked the same path. We ask organizations to pair each participant with an experienced guide—a respected leader from within the organization—who will work with the participant throughout the two-year program to help set and accomplish goals and assignments. We provide training and materials to individuals selected to serve as guides.
Leadership Project
Each year, participants complete a challenging (10+ hours) leadership project that will benefit their organization, satisfy one or more goal requirements, and allow individuals or teams of emerging leaders to further develop important skills. The AEL team will provide project advice, suggestions, and examples, and guides will work closely with participants to ensure accountability and accomplishment of the desired objectives.
Measured Progress
Participants and guides will have access to tools (including an online “members-only” page) that allow them to track progress on goals and projects throughout the year. We will also provide a link so organizational leadership can monitor progress for all participants.
Annual Conference
Program participants have the option of attending our free annual conference. The conference provides an opportunity for participants to network with peers, share ideas, and gain insights on current and emerging organizational challenges so they can bring new energy, ideas, and best practices back to their teams.
2026 Conference Details:
Conference Dates: TBD
Welcome Reception: TBD All participants, guides, and their guests are encouraged to attend.
Location: TBD
Guide Attendance Cost: $495, which covers the cost of registration and meals (hotel and travel excluded).
Affordable Investment
The two-year program’s annual fee is $2,995 and is all-inclusive. This fee covers program materials, training sessions, and full access to the annual conference, including registration costs and meals (excluding hotel and travel expenses). This fee structure provides a seamless experience, allowing participants to concentrate on learning, growing, and networking without any additional administrative concerns.
The guide’s attendance at the annual convention costs $495, which covers the cost of registration and meals (hotel and travel excluded).
Program Registration
The Academy for Excellence in Leadership has produced remarkable results, with participants taking ownership of their careers, implementing impactful improvements, and fostering positive change within their organizations. Through this valuable leadership program, the next generation of leaders is prepared and motivated to help their organizations reach the next level.
The cost of the two-year program is $2,995 per year for each participant and includes:
- Eighteen different online seminars provided by topical experts and industry leaders
- Guide training and material
- Support through individual development goals and an impactful leadership project
- Two conference events in a reginal location (airfare, hotel and meals not included)
- Program tracking and goal measurements through secure member portal
Access to community banking experts and real-world leaders who thrive on your success
Register Today
Download the registration form and mail it in or complete the online form below.
Download the Registration Form