Ensuring that future leaders have the skills they will need to face unexpected challenges and address complex problems has never been so crucial. Our Emerging Leaders Academy targets promising, non-managerial staff to support skills development around leadership, interpersonal communication, relationship-building, and navigating change. Participants gain skills that can be applied immediately to increase their effectiveness while organizations gain a more prepared and engaged talent pool to draw from for the future.


Select a cohort option below to learn more or register. Note that our system requires we list 'KS' in the location but we welcome participants from anywhere.
August 13, 2026 to December 18, 2026, (Olathe, KS)
August 14, 2026 to December 18, 2026, (Kearney, MO)
August 20, 2026 to December 17, 2026, Online (-, ONLINE)

The Heartland Certified Public Manager Annual Conference brings together current and past participants in the CPM program for two days of skill-building, connection, and renewal. This year's theme, "Communication as Infrastructure: Rebuilding Trust in a Fragmented World," will focus on designing communication approaches that not only inform, but also listen, connect, and sustain trust over time. The conference will be held from 9:00 - 4:30 September 9 and 9:00 - 3:00 on September 10, 2026; with an optional social event on September 9 from 5:30-7:00.
September 9-10, 2026, Kansas Memorial Union (Lawrence, KS)