Who We Are

Empowering Leaders

Rooted in our core belief that individuals are responsible for community change, a drop of water released into a larger body of water is the perfect symbol for the Academy. An individual, fully infused with world class leadership training, is represented by a drop of water. This drop is released into the community, represented by a pool of water. The drop hitting the water causes a ripple effect, symbolic of the individual's impact on the community. Their ripples form an enormous wave of positive change in all areas of the community- better schools, stronger economic empowerment and more harmonious diversity. We send out hundreds of these infused droplets every year.

The best investment I have made in myself in a long, long time. The experience continues to pay tremendous dividends in both my personal and professional life.
          - Susan Stephenson, Co-Chair & President, Independent Bank

Equipping Memphis to Attract the Best and Brightest

As the go to organization to assist in attracting and acclimating top talent in Memphis, the Academy provides comprehensive resources for talent acquisition professionals. Through a variety of resources, in-person programs and activities we equip recruiters to highlight local vibrancy and opportunities for employees, prospects and newcomers to connect with the community.

Engaging the Community

We hold steadfast to our belief in the city of Memphis’ potential. Throughout the year we reinforce what gives our city life and makes us proud to live and work here by inspiring Memphians to have pride and loyalty for their city, and respect for local government. Through luncheons, encouraging citizens to speak out about issues important to them and engaging with our diverse group of partners, our programs ensure that Memphis is positioned for the knowledge-based economy of the 21st century.

The LDI is a unique opportunity to participate in the nation's leading executive development program while connecting with a tremendous network of Memphis leaders.
          - Greg Duckett, Senior Vice President & General Counsel, Baptist Memorial Health Care Corp.

Invest in Moving Memphis Forward

You can be part of the impact we are making in Memphis by investing in this wave of empowered community leaders taking Memphis by storm! The Academy raises nearly $1 million every year to support leadership development in Memphis. For example, the 60 Fellows who complete our program each year are able to participate through the generosity of Memphis' funding community- corporations, foundations and individuals. Fellows pay back this investment to the community by investing their time, talent and expertise to build capacity of local nonprofit organizations.

Measuring Our Success

The Academy consistently delivers programmatic outcomes exceeding funder expectations. Our ongoing formal program assessment and quarterly external review of models and objectives ensure that we continue to produce measurable results.