Frequently Asked Questions
Answer: The participant will earn a Certificate from the University of Georgia, Fanning Institute of Leadership Development. The participant will ALSO earn a CWDL (Certified Workforce Development Leader) through NAWDP.
Answer: The CWDL is active for a period of 3 years. You will receive an electronic certificate showing your certification number, date, and expiration date. To recertify, the individual must show 60 hours of professional development in the leadership academy competencies during the 3 years your certification is active. You will receive an email prior to the expiration date with instructions on how to renew your CWDL.
Answer: The cost of the cohort is $2,500. Additional costs will include hotel accommodations and travel expenses to and from the in-person sessions. The in-person sessions will be located in May 2025 in Virginia Beach, VA and May 2026 in Phoenix, AZ
Answer: Absolutely! The Leadership Academy will be held either prior to or immediately following the NAWDP Annual Conference. It is not required that the participant attends the conference, however, if a Leadership Academy participant would like to attend the full Annual Conference, they will receive a discounted registration rate of $400. NAWDP staff will provide instructions on how to be registered at the discounted rate once conference registration opens.
Answer: The NAWDP Leadership Academy is designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. Attendance at all mandatory sessions is required to complete the program and is crucial to fostering a collaborative environment among all participants. Any exceptions, whether for family, medical, or other emergencies, will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Answer: Yes. In order to apply for the Leadership Academy, you must be a member of NAWDP. You can use this link to register for NAWDP membership online: https://nawdp.org/membership/join-renew/
Answer: The in-person sessions are held in conjunction with the NAWDP Annual Conference. In May 2025, the location will be Virginia Beach, VA. In May 2026, the location will be Phoenix, AZ.
Answer: Applications will be scored using a blind review method. Reviewers will rate applicants based on the quality of their statements on application. A process is in place to ensure a variety of applicants are chosen from different organization sizes, regions, and years of experience. The initial cohort will have a maximum of 25 participants.
Answer: Any individual who serves in a leadership role within their organization who wants to gain valuable skills for their role as a leader.
Answer: After an applicant receives official acceptance into the cohort (mid-December), the payment of $2,500 will be due to NAWDP no later than March 1, 2025.
Answer: If you have any questions about the leadership academy or application process, please email Jason Estep at jason.estep@uga.edu or Brendan Leahy at bleahy@uga.edu.
Answer: You will receive an official email from NAWDP no later than December 15, 2024, on the status of your selection to the cohort.
Answer: If you decide not to join prior to the March 1, 2025 payment deadline, an alternate will be put in your place. If you decide not to attend after the March 1, 2025 payment deadline and BEFORE April 15, 2025, NAWDP will issue a refund. A $500 cancellation fee will apply. There will be NO refunds issued after April 16, 2025. Requests for refund MUST be submitted via email to kim@nawdp.org AND cc: jackie@nawdp.org.