Strengthening civic leadership is the goal of the newly launched Northeast Nebraska Elected Leaders Academy, a one‑year leadership development program designed specifically for elected officials and emerging civic leaders.
The Northeast Nebraska Elected Leaders Academy (NELA) is part of the 6 Regions, One Nebraska (6R1N) initiative started in 2024 across Nebraska. Northeast Community College is leading the effort along with several other partners including UNL Extension.
The Northeast Elected Leader Academy is a one‑year experience that meets quarterly, with sessions shaped by input from approximately one hundred Nebraska elected officials and community leaders. Northeast Community College played a central role in supporting curriculum development to ensure the content is relevant, actionable, and responsive to real‑world leadership challenges.
Governor Jim Pillen will attend the Academy’s opening session on April 28, underscoring the importance of leadership development and reinforcing statewide support for initiatives led in partnership with Nebraska’s community colleges.
6R1N is a partnership of the Governor’s Office, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, and the Nebraska Chamber, created to address workforce challenges across the state. Regional navigators were appointed within each community college district to lead this work locally. Wilkinson, the Navigator for the Northeast Region, collaborates closely with Northeast Community College, which serves as a foundational partner in convening leaders, shaping workforce strategies, and delivering education aligned with regional needs.
“Local leadership is essential to strong communities,” said Denise Wilkinson, 6R1N Northeast Regional navigator. “Through our partnership with Northeast Community College, and UNL Extension, we are committed to supporting elected officials and civic leaders with practical, accessible leadership development.”
The Northeast Region of 6R1N held numerous meetings with community leaders across its 20-county area to identify priorities for addressing workforce challenges. Through these discussions, the leadership of elected officials emerged as a key priority. Local leaders recognized that elected officials play a critical role in community growth and development, yet many begin their roles without formal preparation or training. The academy is designed to help address that gap by providing practical tools, peer-to-peer learning opportunities, and a strong professional network. Whether newly elected or experienced, participants will gain knowledge and confidence to better understand community challenges, remove barriers, and support local economic growth.
“Strong leadership is essential to the long‑term success of our communities and workforce,” said Michela Keeler‑Strom, dean of academic outreach at Northeast Community College. “Northeast is proud to partner on a program that delivers relevant, high‑quality leadership education right here in the region.”
Interested individuals are encouraged to visit: https://northeast.edu/nela. Registration is limited, and participation is determined through a brief online application process. Accepted participants will be notified directly.
