Project

Leadership Development Series

YLC began the Leadership Development Series (LDS) as a service to its members in 2003. While we have been developing leadership in our members since 1986 through hands-on volunteerism, LDS was conceived as YLC's formalized leadership course to train members in numerous intangible and foundational leadership skills. LDS provides members the unique opportunity to learn from New Orleans top leaders as well as fellow YLC members.

How it works

In 2003, YLC began hosting a formalized leadership course dubbed Leadership Development Series. This course was offered in addition to the hands-on volunteerism opportunities that have been used since the organization’s founding in 1986 for developing leadership skills in young professionals.

The 2022 Leadership Development Series is currently underway. View our 2022 LDS class HERE. A big thank you to Laitram for sponsoring LDS again in 2022.

The Leadership Development Series (LDS) is a 10-week series that engages young professionals with an interest in developing leadership, networking, and communication skills. LDS offers a hands-on approach to increasing leadership and networking traits through a multi-faceted framework of content speakers and small-group interactions. The series includes presentations from a diverse group of city leaders, covering a wide array of topics, including non-profit management, civic engagement, team building, and leadership. 

Past LDS guest speakers have included:

  • Michael Hecht | GNO Inc.
  • Jennifer Avegno | City of New Orleans
  • Rod Teamer | Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Lee Zurik | Fox 8 News
  • Adrianne Jackson | Magnolia Yoga Studio
  • Andrea Chen | Propeller
  • Patrick Comer | Lucid
  • Wes Palmisano | Impetus

How Do I Apply?

Entry to the class is competitive with approximately 20-30 students accepted each year. Class members are selected through an application process.

Applications for the 2022 Leadership Development Series are now closed. Sign up for future LDS announcements HERE.

Questions? Email LDS at lds@ylcnola.org.

Project Leaders

John Carlisle

Jordyn Spizale

Drew Chapman

Jay Howard

Nick Lacour

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