Emerging Leaders Program

Purpose

Washington, DC is a national hub for government, public policy, thought leadership, and civic life. As the center of the most educated region in the country, tapping into the talent around us will unlock our potential to be a national leader in innovative policy solutions. Addressing the challenges we face as a city requires new, creative ways of thinking from diverse perspectives. 

At the Federal City Council (FC2), we harness the strengths and talent that exist in all quadrants of the District of Columbia through the Emerging Leaders Program. This initiative informs up-and-coming city leaders on DC’s challenges and areas of opportunity. The FC2 Emerging Leaders are a cohort of mid-career professionals who represent DC’s top talent. 

Emerging Leaders are provided with a network and tools to advance their professional lives for careers of service and leadership in Washington, DC. A one-year program with ten monthly sessions that include content-focused workshops led by local policy experts and city thought leaders. Topics have included:

• The History of the District and Federal Ties
• How to Give Effective Testimony
• Media Training
• Social Responsibility and Impact

Goals

• Leader Cultivation: The Emerging Leaders Program will open up new opportunities for civic leadership for its participants and deepen the pool of knowledgeable and talented leaders committed to the improvement of the District of Columbia.
• Education: Topics discussed will include transportation, education, public finance, workforce, housing, and economic development. Emerging Leaders will have the opportunity to learn from professionals in these fields and consider nuanced perspectives on complex urban issues. 

• Networking: In addition to networking with city leaders and panelists, Emerging Leaders will have opportunities to network with each other, civic leaders, and members of the Federal City Council. 
• Engagement: Participants will be exposed to new opportunities for civic engagement and leadership through their participation. 

Eligibility

• Professionals in government, non-profit or private sector positions  
• Dedication and strong potential to contribute to the economic, civic, and social advancement of Washington, DC  
• Interest in education, economic development, public finance, workforce development, transportation, or housing