The Health Leadership Fellows program, established by the Health Foundation in 2005, seeks to build a collaborative network of nonprofit leaders dedicated to addressing health challenges for young children and older adults in western and central New York. This 18-month fellowship program, now accepting applications for Cohort 12, is designed for experienced leaders in health-related nonprofits, safety-net organizations, and public agencies. Leaders from underrepresented communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, are encouraged to apply. Independent consultants, however, are not eligible.

Eligible applicants must be in senior leadership roles with at least five years in a management position, possess decision-making authority within their organizations, and demonstrate a commitment to racial and socioeconomic equity. In addition, they should exhibit adaptability, receptiveness to learning, and a commitment to collaborative work. Organizations must support the fellows’ participation throughout the program.

The fellowship includes four residential sessions lasting two to three days each, covering areas like personal leadership development, change management, and collaboration. Fellows will also participate in three additional day-long seminars, ongoing project work with small inter-organizational teams, and executive coaching sessions. Each fellow gains access to a suite of learning resources, contributing to both individual and collective impact across the health sector.

Applications for Cohort 12 are due by November 26, 2024. Interviews will begin in late 2024, with preparatory activities scheduled for summer 2025 and in-person sessions commencing in October 2025. Interested candidates can access information session recordings to learn more about the fellowship experience.