Application process

Thank you for your interest in applying for Leadership Maryland’s Emerging Leader Program!

The application process for the Class of ’25 is closed. Applications for the Class of ’26 will open in the Fall.

The Process
If you are interested in applying, please read the full application information and instructions as well as the checklist below.

Completed Application Checklist
(All items must be received for the application to be considered complete)
  • Application submitted online
  • Select payment method for Application Fee (check or VISA or MasterCard)
  • Financial aid request form and proof of income (if requesting aid)
  • Two references (added emphasis will be given if one is a Leadership Maryland alum)
  • One letter of recommendation
  • Authorizing official statement from the applicant’s manager/supervisor or CEO confirming their permission to participate in the program
  • High-quality professional color photo (head/shoulder shot, .jpg, .png, or pdf preferred)
  • Paid application fee (early bird rate of $50 if submitted by 5:00pm on Oct. 15, or $100 if submitted after that, check payable to Leadership Maryland, PO Box 2442, Easton, MD 21601, or paid online with VISA or MasterCard)
  • Submit a brief optional video response using the provided video tool

Nominations
Special consideration will be given to Emerging Leader Program applicants who are nominated or endorsed by an alum of Leadership Maryland’s Executive Program. If you know someone you think would benefit from our Emerging Leader Program, we accept nominations all year long! Submit your nomination here  or for questions about the program, email President & CEO David Fike.

session dates

If you're applying for next year's program, we suggest you block these dates on your calendar now.

2025
  • May 5 (Opening Reception - managers/supervisors encouraged to attend), Annapolis, MD | 6-8 pm
  • June 5 (Orientation – mandatory), Stevensville, MD
  • July 17, Annapolis, MD
  • September 18, Annapolis, MD
  • October 16, Annapolis, MD
  • November 6 (Closing Retreat), Stevensville, MD
  • December 2 (Graduation), Location TBD

2026
  • May 4 (evening reception)
  • June 4 (Orientation – mandatory)*
  • July 16*
  • September 17*
  • October 15*
  • November 5 (Closing Retreat)
  • December 1 (Graduation)

​2027
  • May 3 (evening reception)
  • June 10 (Orientation – mandatory)*
  • July 10*
  • September 9*
  • October 7*
  • November 4 (Closing Retreat)
  • December 2 (Graduation)

*Additional optional activities take place the Wednesday prior to the start of these sessions, offering the class more bonding time and the opportunity to further explore each region. We highly recommend blocking off these days as well on your calendar and participating in as many of these activities as possible.