MENTORING CHANGEMAKERS AND INFLUENCERS
Application for the 2026-2027 cohort
will open mid-May 2026.
People with ArrowsParticipants will gain the foundational knowledge and experience to contribute to positive change in our community with the opportunity to connect with many diverse groups and organizations. By the end of the academy, participants will have the knowledge base and leadership capabilities to affect change while enjoying an expanded circle of influence.
People with Arrows
OBJECTIVE OF THIS UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY
Eastern Leaders Academy (ELA) facilitates powerful exercises and enlightening interactions to assist emerging and established leaders in becoming changemakers and unifiers in their community.
Limited to 14 members each year, the academy is designed to empower participants with tools to critically examine key issues affecting our community and to foster high-level introductions and connections. Participants become part of Utah State University Eastern’s learning community.
Membership is $1500 for the full year and includes a two-day trip to Cedar City for the One Utah Summit and another two-day trip to Salt Lake City for State Government Days in February. Scholarships are available.
A PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE FOR CHANGEMAKERS
Now, more than ever before, our community is looking to leaders who can advance progress and promote unity. The Eastern Leaders Academy, facilitated by Utah State University Eastern, provides opportunities for personal and professional growth to new and established leaders in Carbon & Emery Counties through a high-impact, 9-month training schedule.
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Accepting
Applications
Check List
Participant
Selection
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Kickoff
Retreat
EASTERN EXPERIENCE DAYS
Held on one full day each month, ELA Experience Days are designed for established and future leaders in Carbon and Emery Counties to:
- Unite elected officials, economic developers, and other civic-minded leaders
- Provide an understanding of current and complex issues
Experience Days Themes
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Kickoff Retreat |
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One Utah Summit and Leadership Day |
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Service Enterprises |
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Education from Birth to Career |
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Community Health & Wellness |
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State Government Day at the Utah State Capital |
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Economic Growth & Development |
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Parks, Recreation & Tourism |
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Arts, Culture, & Belonging |
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May Graduation |
Experience Days are built around a different theme each month and include:
- Retreats
- Behind-the-scenes tours and meetings
- Guest lunches and VIP dinners
- An excursion to Utah’s Capitol Hill
ACADEMY FOUNDERS
Founders are recognized and established community leaders who provide focus and vision for the Eastern Leaders Academy (ELA). These founding mentors inspire Academy Champions, staff, as well as emerging and established leaders to be agents of change and unifiers in Carbon and Emery counties.
CHAMPIONS
Champions are local leaders who work closely with program staff to guide Academy design and implementation, ensuring that participant selection and adventure days are intentional. Champions also participate in facilitating growth and change, inspiring transformation, and developing local leaders.
For Information contact:
Brad Watson
Director of Community and Campus Engagement
Administration
Jaime Cowdell
Director - Community & Alumni Relations
Advancement & Alumni