Leadership Maryland, a statewide professional development program now heading into roughly its 34th year, has opened applications for its 2027 Executive and Emerging Leader program classes.
The organization will select 53 applicants for the Executive Program’s Class of 2027, an eight-month hands-on program focused on Maryland’s most pressing social, economic, and environmental issues. Selected members convene monthly across five different regions of the state for two-day sessions — one day centered on successful local programs and notable places in that region, the other on statewide issues including education, economic development, health and human services, criminal justice, the environment, agriculture, and multiculturalism and diversity, with more than 100 experts from business, government, education, and the nonprofit sector serving as panelists.
Separately, the organization will select up to 40 applicants for the Emerging Leader Program’s Fourth Class, a six-month program aimed at helping participants build self-awareness and gain the skills to become more adaptive, inclusive, strategic, and impactful leaders. Both programs are designed to reflect a cross-section of the state, with selection committees weighing geographic location, profession, ethnicity, age, and gender diversity among applicants. A full tuition scholarship is available for one Emerging Leader applicant who lives and works in Garrett or Allegany County.
Leadership Maryland was incorporated in September 1992 as an affiliate of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, earned its nonprofit status the following year, and held its first class later in 1993 before becoming an independent organization in 1997.
Executive Program applicants must be senior-level executives with significant career or community achievements; Emerging Leader applicants should be advancing in their careers and actively involved in their communities. Complete application packages require an online application, a non-refundable application fee, two references, one letter of recommendation, an authorizing statement from the applicant’s supervisor or CEO (unless self-employed), and a professional color photo; scholarship applicants must also submit a request form and proof of income.
Applications and fees are due by 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026. Accepted candidates will be contacted for a selection committee interview, and the 2027 class will be announced in early February 2027. More information, including tuition and financial assistance details, is available at LeadershipMD.org, or by calling 410-841-2101.
