Applications for the Class of 2027
Applications open October 1, 2026, and will be accepted through November 20, 2026.
After you submit your application, Executive Director Brianna Cessna will email you to confirm that it has been received. If you do not receive confirmation within one week, please contact Brianna at HendersonLeadershipInitiative@gmail.com. This helps ensure that no application is lost or overlooked during the submission process.
We encourage prospective class members to apply as early as possible, as space is limited. Applicants will be notified of their selection status by the end of December 2026.
Complete and submit your application below.
After you submit your application, Executive Director Brianna Cessna will email you to confirm that it has been received. If you do not receive confirmation within one week, please contact Brianna at HendersonLeadershipInitiative@gmail.com. This helps ensure that no application is lost or overlooked during the submission process.
We encourage prospective class members to apply as early as possible, as space is limited. Applicants will be notified of their selection status by the end of December 2026.
Complete and submit your application below.
Please complete the form using the link below. If you should have any questions, please contact hendersonleadershipinitiative@gmail.com
CLICK HERE FOR THE 2027 CLASS APPLICATION.
Henderson Leadership Initiative Graduates & Fellows
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HLI Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How does HLI work?
HLI develops emerging community leaders through a yearlong program. Classes typically meet from 8am to noon on the third Friday of each month, with holiday schedule adjustments.
2. What do classes include?
Sessions cover team building, leadership styles, governance, public policy advocacy, community history, networking, and coalition building. Classes are held at locations throughout the community and include hands-on experience.
3. When does the program begin?
The Class of 2027 begins with an overnight leadership retreat in New Harmony, Indiana, in February 2027. Monthly classes begin in March, and graduation is held in January 2028. Participants must attend regularly and help plan a community improvement project, which may require work outside class.
4. What do HLI graduates go on to do?
More than 300 HLI Fellows serve in leadership roles throughout Henderson, including business, education, nonprofit organizations, government, and public service.
5. What is the cost?
Tuition is $1,500 and will be invoiced in December 2026. Tuition is nonrefundable and cannot be transferred to a future year. Financial assistance and payment plans may be available.
6. What is the application deadline?
Applications for the Class of 2027 are accepted through November 20, 2026. Applicants will be notified of their selection status by the end of December 2026.
7. Is everyone who applies accepted?
Class size is limited to 25 participants to provide the best possible experience. Some years, applications exceed the number of available spaces
Have more questions?
Email Executive Director Brianna Cessna at HendersonLeadershipInitiative@gmail.com.
1. How does HLI work?
HLI develops emerging community leaders through a yearlong program. Classes typically meet from 8am to noon on the third Friday of each month, with holiday schedule adjustments.
2. What do classes include?
Sessions cover team building, leadership styles, governance, public policy advocacy, community history, networking, and coalition building. Classes are held at locations throughout the community and include hands-on experience.
3. When does the program begin?
The Class of 2027 begins with an overnight leadership retreat in New Harmony, Indiana, in February 2027. Monthly classes begin in March, and graduation is held in January 2028. Participants must attend regularly and help plan a community improvement project, which may require work outside class.
4. What do HLI graduates go on to do?
More than 300 HLI Fellows serve in leadership roles throughout Henderson, including business, education, nonprofit organizations, government, and public service.
5. What is the cost?
Tuition is $1,500 and will be invoiced in December 2026. Tuition is nonrefundable and cannot be transferred to a future year. Financial assistance and payment plans may be available.
6. What is the application deadline?
Applications for the Class of 2027 are accepted through November 20, 2026. Applicants will be notified of their selection status by the end of December 2026.
7. Is everyone who applies accepted?
Class size is limited to 25 participants to provide the best possible experience. Some years, applications exceed the number of available spaces
Have more questions?
Email Executive Director Brianna Cessna at HendersonLeadershipInitiative@gmail.com.
CONTACT INFORMATION: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BRIANNA CESSNA
Hendersonleadershipinitiative@gmail.com
P.O. Box 372, Henderson, KY 42419
Hendersonleadershipinitiative@gmail.com
P.O. Box 372, Henderson, KY 42419