The field of public health continues to face complex challenges that demand dynamic leadership approaches. The Great Plains Leadership Institute has been honored to serve the region and beyond for almost twenty years. During the year-long experience, scholars can focus on their individual growth and development goals, create new and lasting relationships, and foster change within the organizations they serve.

Three multi-day onsite Intensives (Kickoff, Midyear, Graduation) anchor the Institute; at each, scholars participate in lectures with faculty and guest speakers, small group discussions, simulation experiences and interactive workshops.

The Intensives are complemented by distance-based learning opportunities including expert-led monthly webinars, access to online learning modules, and recommended readings. To help put skills into practice, each scholar participates in professional coaching, mentoring, and peer coaching opportunities spread throughout the program. Small groups of scholars form learning clusters to discuss experiences and application of the Institute materials. Finally, scholars work on individualized leadership development plans tailored to meet their personal development goals.

Our curriculum is grounded in eight foundational leadership competencies, informed by the current public health workforce’s needs:
– Owning Your Leadership Identity
– Valuing Culture and Differences
– Developing Others
– Leading Positive Change
– Influencing Organizational Culture
– Creating Effective Partnerships
– Building Political Savvy
– Interpreting Complex Systems