The U.S. Leadership Accelerator (USLA), a program by Global Health Corps (GHC), is a 9-month leadership development initiative aimed at empowering emerging public health leaders to advance health equity in the United States. This tuition-free program integrates in-person and virtual learning experiences designed to enhance leadership skills, build networks, and foster systems-level change.

The program runs from September to May and includes monthly virtual workshops, small group learning, asynchronous learning tasks, one-on-one executive coaching, and 360° assessments. Fellows also attend two in-person retreats with covered travel, lodging, and meals. They gain access to additional resources, mentorship, and integration into GHC’s global network of over 1,300 alumni spanning 40+ countries. Topics covered include systems leadership, wellness, relationship building, and mobilizing collective action.

Eligibility is open to early-career professionals aged 21–30 working full-time in U.S.-focused public health roles in non-clinical capacities. Candidates must live in and be authorized to work in the U.S. and have at least six months of experience in their current role. Public health leaders across sectors, particularly those from historically marginalized groups and critical areas like environmental health, behavioral health, and health IT, are encouraged to apply.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority consideration given to those submitted by March 31, 2025, and a final deadline of April 14, 2025. Applicants need to submit a résumé, references, a supervisor’s letter of recommendation, and responses to prompts assessing leadership fit. Notification of acceptance will occur by May 30, 2025.

Upon completing the program, fellows transition into GHC’s lifelong alumni network, continuing to engage in leadership development and health equity advocacy. Prospective applicants can contact the USLA team for support and further details.