Initiatives

Our focus on building strong community leadership for Memphis has led to an infusion of empowered leaders taking action in this city, including through Academy initiatives:

Mentoring through The Grizzlies Charitable Foundation

The Leadership Academy and the Memphis Grizzlies Charitable Foundation have TEAMED UP to provide youth mentors to serve in locations across the city. 

MemphisConnect.com

Developed and administered by the Academy, MemphisConnect.com responds to the community's call for an online space where diverse, city-shaping Memphians discuss the opporunities, organizations and activities that inspire them to make Memphis home.

Speak Out Initiative

Constructive dialogue about our community’s strides in public safety, greening, education and other quality of life initiatives excites the public about what gives our city vitality, shapes its future for the better, and creates a civic image that makes Memphis more attractive to top talent. Through our Speak Out initiative we encourage and empower our alumni to speak out on behalf of our community with positive, informed messages. 

Nonprofit Board Placements

Local nonprofit organizations regularly come to the Leadership Academy with requests for board members. We are pleased to match our friends and alumni with our partner organizations based on careful consideration of interests and expertise. Putting our city's most talented individuals on the boards of our most effective nonprofits infuses these organizations with fresh perspectives and new ideas. Board placement also contributes to the success of our efforts to retain top talent in Memphis while moving Memphis forward.

Commercial Appeal Young Leaders

At the Leadership Academy Young Leaders Forum, hosted by the Commercial Appeal, a diverse group of Fellows share their informed perspective about our city’s most compelling issues.  The Forum is on-the-record, attended by the CA editorial staff and led by our Academy staff.