Seventeen fellows will graduate on Wednesday, December 11, 2019 from the fall session at the New American Leadership Academy (NALA), sponsored by the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods. The ceremony will begin from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Coleman Government Center, located at 111 North Front Street, Room #204, Columbus, Ohio.

Also, application for the New American Leadership Academy 2020 cohort opened Monday November 25, 2019. The sessions will be offered beginning February 19, 2020 and conclude October 28, 2020. Applications are accepted now through December 17, 2019 at Noon. For more information visit www.columbus.gov/NALA

The academy is a leadership and professional development program focused on civic engagement for New American residents in Columbus, Ohio.

Participants at the academy received mentorship, professional development and cover topics such as government, civic responsibility, and implicit bias.

The Academy selected individuals believed to be ready to grow and enhance their knowledge of civic engagement, community stewardship, leadership, and discover new ways to contribute to community.

“Knowledge gained as a result of the program will equip participants with the skills needed to empower their communities in a culturally appropriate manner,” said Director Carla Williams-Scott.

The NALA provides opportunities to:

• Receive lectures and presentations on local government, public policy, and neighborhood and community leadership
• Engage in a service project that reflects the skills learned in the program
• Engage with community and government leaders

By the end of the academy, participants will have gained the skills necessary to navigate local governments and, in turn, help not only themselves and their professional development but, empower their communities to do the same.  The academy is open to all qualified applicants 18 years or older with a high school diploma or equivalent.