NEW ORLEANS − Interested in a premier leadership program that fosters connections across the ten-parish region? The New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute (NORLI) is now accepting applications for its 2018 class. NORLI is open to all business, civic and public-sector leaders in the ten-parish region – Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington parishes. The deadline to apply online is Monday, May 15.
Each year NORLI brings together a class of 40 business, civic and community leaders representing all races, genders, industries and communities with a mission to promote regional collaboration. The program provides a forum for the exchange of diverse viewpoints and is designed to enhance personal leadership skills by examining issues central to the advancement of the entire ten-parish region.
According to NORLI Chairwoman Christe Brewton, "NORLI raises awareness for community issues, affecting positive change in current and future leaders. I look forward to the connections participants will make in the upcoming year and adding another class of civically engaged leaders to our growing network of alumni.”
A nine month program spanning from September to May, NORLI consists of two overnight retreats and seven full day sessions. The program curriculum examines public policy, education, healthcare, workforce development, diversity, criminal justice, public safety, environment and sustainability and focuses on how these issues affect economic development and quality of life.
How to Apply
Leaders from across the ten-parish region may submit an online application detailing their employment information and community involvement along with two letters of recommendation. A $35 non-refundable application fee is due upon submission of the application.
If accepted into the 2018 NORLI class, tuition is a non-refundable fee of $2,750, which covers all program costs and materials, including meals, as well as all the expenses associated with the retreats. A limited supply of scholarships are available on an as needed basis.
NORLI will be hosting a series informational sessions about the program and how to apply. Program alumni and current program participants will be on hand to discuss the benefits of the program and answer applicants’ questions. The schedule of informational sessions includes:
Thursday, April 6 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Metairie Bank (3rd Floor Board Room)
3344 Metairie Rd.
Metairie, LA 70001
Thursday, April 13 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
St Bernard Port Harbor and Terminal District (2nd Floor, Suite 10, Chamber of Commerce Board Room)
100 Port Blvd.
Chalmette, LA 70043
Monday, April 17 from 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Volunteers of America Greater New Orleans
4152 Canal St.
New Orleans, LA 70119
Thursday, April 20 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Gambel Communications
111 N. Causeway Blvd., Suite 205
Mandeville, LA 70448
Monday, April 24 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Louisiana Federal Credit Union Training Center
406 E. Airline Hwy.
LaPlace, LA 70068
All NORLI informational sessions are free and open to the public; space is limited, so advance registration is highly recommended. To register, email info@caulfieldconsulting.com
Benefits of NORLI
Participating in NORLI creates benefits for not only the individual participant, but employers and the greater community as well, NORLI reps said.
For the participant, NORLI creates opportunities to connect with influential leaders and provides experience in group dynamics, team leadership, presentation skills, ethics, decision-making, and critical and creative thinking. Over the course of the nine month program, participants grow as individuals by gaining a better understanding of the many facets of their community, learning cutting-edge leadership skills, and enhancing their business relationships, NORLI reps said. Most importantly, NORLI builds confidence and motivation for participants to become actively involved in promoting positive change for the entire ten-parish region.
For the employer, NORLI develops increased organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills in the employee participant.
Additionally, it gives employees a unique perspective on how to become involved in the community by offering new insights, helping identify where strategic alliances might be forged.
For the community, NORLI helps develop committed, knowledgeable, and action-oriented individuals to serve as catalysts in promoting positive change, NORLI reps said. The program also encourages creative partnerships and initiatives between the public and private sectors.