LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
The Leadership Institute is YNPN Chicago’s flagship program for emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector. Within this transformative experience, promising nonprofit leaders from the Chicago area will unite to stimulate mutual growth, foster collaboration, and cultivate enduring relationships that extend well beyond the program's duration. Participants will gain invaluable access to seasoned nonprofit leaders who will serve as mentors and guest speakers. Upon completing the Leadership Institute, graduates will depart with the essential skills, heightened self-awareness, and a robust network of connections that will empower them to lead the nonprofit sector into the future.
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2024 LI Cohort Participants
Applications for the 2025 cohorts are now closed.
Applications for the 2026 cohort will open in Fall 2025.
Interested in becoming a mentor for the 2025 cohort?
"The YNPN Leadership Institute was instrumental in helping me prioritize and refine my leadership skills while providing a supportive space to openly discuss my current circumstances and receive valuable feedback. It offered an environment filled with like-minded individuals equally committed to their leadership development. I had the opportunity to learn from inspiring speakers, exchange questions and perspectives with others, and gain confidence in my leadership abilities through meaningful dialogue and assignments."
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–Daniel Kumapayi, 2024 Leadership Institute Alumni
"I initially applied for YNPN's Leadership Institute to further my leadership skills at work and after completing LI this past year, I realized I have gained so much more. Leadership Institute allowed me time and space to reflect on my journey as a leader, to hone managerial skills, and reignited my passion for learning and growing both professionally and personally. I have left LI with a new network of nonprofit professionals and a strong desire to continue to learn and grow in this space."
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– Angela Romero, 2024 Leadership Institute Alumni
MEET THE FACILITATOR
Kate Gannon is an experienced trainer and facilitator in the nonprofit field, with a particular focus on Workforce Development.
Kate has led on-the-job training programs for justice-involved adults re-entering the workforce, career changers, and high school-aged youth. Much of her experience has been with the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Windy City Harvest training programs. In her time with The Garden, Kate led experiential learning opportunities on the farm and in the classroom with a focus on growing social-emotional skills, career exploration, and job readiness. Kate currently specializes in training nonprofit and workforce development professionals as the Capacity Building Program Manager at the Chicago Jobs Council.
Kate is passionate about contributing to a more sustainable, more equitable workforce system. She is also an avid runner, home gardener, and a devoted pet parent.
Kate Gannon
Associate Director of Capacity Building
Trust for Public Land
