FAQ - Learn more about the African American Leadership Institute.

Q: How can I expect to benefit from this institute?

A: As an institute participant you will deepen your self-awareness, strengthen your leadership competencies, skills, and abilities, position yourself for career enhancement, build networks across sectors with other professionals, and gain access to established leaders and decision-makers.

Q: Who is this institute for?

A: This institute targets African American professionals who work in Phoenix and Southern Arizona area organizations: private, public, and nonprofit but accepts applications from all individuals interested in building their capacity for African American issues. Participants should have a minimum of five years of professional employment, have the potential for advancement, and hold a position with some influence, which would include at least one of the following: decision-making, program/department management, or supervisory responsibilities.

Q: Why is this institute focused on African American professionals?

A: African American professionals are often perceived professionally as "different” which presents unique challenges as these professionals seek to establish themselves within their organizations. The African American Leadership Institute provides a platform to examine these challenges as well as to consider the impact of race on an individual and collective level while building their capacity for leadership across sectors.

Q: What is on the application?

A: You will need to provide information about yourself, a resume, a headshot and complete hour responses to questions with a minimum of 125 words for each response.
These questions are:

• Q1: Describe a time when you faced a significant challenge or setback. How did you navigate the situation, and what lessons did you learn about resilience and leadership? How has this experience shaped your approach to problem-solving and decision-making?
  
• Q2: A strong leader not only adapts to change but also creates stability and continuity for those they serve. Share an example of how you have contributed to long-term impact within your community or organization. How did you ensure that your efforts would remain sustainable beyond your direct involvement?
  
• Q3: What does “advancing Black leadership through collective power” mean to you? How do you see yourself contributing to collective progress within your community or field, and why is it important for Black leaders to move beyond zero-sum thinking in this moment?
  
• Q4: How do you see your participation in AALI supporting, enhancing, or changing the trajectory of your career goals?
  

Q: How will I know if you have received my application?

A: A confirmation email will be sent upon receipt of your application materials.

Q: When will I hear if I have been accepted into the institute?

A: Applications will be reviewed following the application deadline. Applicants can expect a response to their application within two weeks of review.

Q: How often do the institute participants meet?

A: The AALI meets on Tuesday or Thursday evenings (depending on your location) for 10 weeks. Each session is three hours and participants are required to attend our leadership retreat which average about six to eight hours per retreat and a graduation ceremony over the course of three months.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: The cost of the institute is $1,500, which includes masterclass sessions, leadership assessment and retreats, facilitation, materials, and meals.

Q: Who pays the fee for my participation in the institute?

A: Organizations typically pay the fee for participants in the institute. Checking with your manager or Human Resources Department for clarification is best. Small business owners, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit administrators are also encouraged to participate.

Q: Are scholarships available?

A: Yes. For 2025, two location-specific scholarships are available.

• The Ebonee Sifuentes Leadership Scholarship supports leaders in the Phoenix metro area who have lived in Maricopa or Pinal counties for at least one year prior to and following the program.
• The Southern Arizona Alumni Scholarship supports leaders in Southern Arizona who have lived in Pima, Santa Cruz, or Cochise counties for at least one year prior to and following the program.

Both scholarships require demonstrated financial need, employer approval, a commitment to full participation, prior volunteer service, and a pledge to support the scholarship fund in the future. You may only apply for the scholarship aligned with the region you live in and will be selected as participant.

Q: How do you decide who is accepted into the institute?

A: Applications are reviewed by a selection committee made up of several alumni from the program. Decisions are based on the criteria described in the institute materials and the merit of your application narrative.

Q: How large are the classes and is there a limit to their size?

A: The group capacity is 40 individuals. 25 Phoenix participants maximum and 15 Southern Arizona participants maximum.

Q: Can a professional based outside of the Phoenix and Southern Arizona area participate?

A: The institute is focused on strengthening talent in Phoenix and Southern Arizona areas however African American professionals from anywhere in the state are welcome to attend if distance is not a barrier to full participation.

Q: When is payment due for participation in the institute?

A: The program tuition must be satisfied, in process on or before the first class.