We empower leaders
to benefit society
and improve lives

The Leadership Development Institute at APA is the new central hub for the American Psychological Association’s leadership development, training, and mentorship programs.


The Leadership Development Institute is more than a collection of basic and bespoke training and mentorship programs — it's a powerful force for change, dedicated to uniting APA's existing leadership initiatives, pioneering groundbreaking new programming, and fostering meaningful mentorship opportunities under one dynamic banner. 

Our Guiding Principles

Leadership can be learned.

Every individual can become an even more effective leader.

Every individual should have an opportunity to develop their leadership capabilities.

Leadership and intercultural competence are inextricable, and leaders act as global champions of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Leaders are avid learners who acquire, use, and produce interdisciplinary knowledge and innovative approaches to leadership including history and context. 

Leadership matters and makes a difference in the lives of individuals and the vitality of organizations and society. 

Leadership is relevant to all places or positions in organizations and communities and applies to a variety of disciplines and functions.

Our Goals and Objectives

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ALIGN

Ensure programs align with APA’s strategic plan and values 

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SUPPORT

Support the advancement, success, and retention of all participants

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HAVE CLARITY AND IMPACT

Have clearly stated learning objectives and measurable outcomes 

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EMPOWER

Empower individuals to be more confident and competent

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ENSURE CONSISTENCY

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BUILD OPPORTUNITY

Create greater opportunities for the exercise of leadership 

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ADVANCE SOCIETY

Address and contribute to advancing societal issues and the common good

Get to Know Us

Flagship Programs

The Institute is built on the success of our flagship programs and their distinguished alumni.

APA’s premier institute designed to prepare, support, and empower women psychologists as leaders to promote positive changes in institutional, organizational, and practice settings.

APA’s acclaimed, federally-funded program providing financial support, professional development, and networking opportunities to underrepresented minority students and early career psychologists in the field of psychology.

Conceptual Framework

The Institute's conceptual framework for preparing program participants to engage in leadership is built upon three essential leadership elements and three levels of connection/relationship. This framework serves as a comprehensive guide, reflecting our perspective on the crucial aspects of effective leadership development. It informs the design of our programs, the assessment of participants, and the development of content.

Join our community

Become a catalyst for change by serving as a committee member, task force member, or mentor for one of the Leadership Development Institute's transformative programs. By sharing your expertise and experience, you'll contribute to the advancement of psychological and leadership science, facilitate the exchange of knowledge, and expand your professional network.

Get involved

Empower leaders through the institute

The Leadership Development Institute at APA depends on the generosity of donors like you to run our transformative programs and offer essential financial assistance to participants. Discover how your contribution can make a lasting impact by nurturing and inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.

Make a difference

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