Application & Selection
Masters Leadership Program (MLP) candidates are proven leaders in their fields with a strong track record of accomplishment. They are driven by a desire to serve the community. MLP seeks students who represent and/or appreciate people of diverse backgrounds and experiences. MLP candidates look for an opportunity to enhance the lives of others through nonprofit board and civic commission service.
Applications for Class XX (2023-2024) are now closed. Class XXI applications will open January 1st, 2024.
To see what information is required to apply, a sample application is available for review here.
Eligibility Criteria
Ideal MLP Candidates are:
- In full control of their schedules, able to fully commit to attending ALL 12 full days of classes. Please review the class schedule to confirm your personal calendar allows commitment to attend ALL classes.
- Recommended by either a member of the “MLP Family;” i.e., a graduate, board, emeritus member, or staff. Or nominated by a person knowledgeable about MLP and with whom the applicant is familiar.
- From San Antonio and surrounding area.
- Able to demonstrate an active desire to serve, impact change, and stay connected in our community through a role of service on a nonprofit board or civic commission.
- Are motivated by a desire to serve as vital contributors in creating equitable, inclusive outcomes for our community through their service activities.
MLP Applicants Commit to:
- Reviewing these Application Tips to help you prepare for the application and selection process.
- Fulfilment of $1,500 tuition.
- Active attendance at all 12 full class days. Class XX Schedule (2023-2024)
- Financial contribution to the class fundraising project.
- Reporting your community service on the graduate website.
- Serving on a nonprofit board or civic commission upon graduation.
- Participating in our MLP Alumni Association (MLPAA) — annual fees are $150.
Nominators, the mentorship and assistance you provide your nominee makes a significant difference in their application. Please review these Tips and Hints to help prepare your candidate for the application and selection process.
Program Timeline
Application
January 1 - March 31, 2023
Fifty-four (54) candidates, and aproximately five alternates, are selected each year for participation in the program. Due to the large number of applications, classes will fill, and applicants may be invited to re-submit for a following year.
Interviews
April
Candidates with completed applications may be invited for a face-to-face conversation with an MLP graduate. These 30-minute conversations are structured to answer any questions you may have about MLP and offer an opportunity to add more context to your application.
A selection committee, consisting of MLP graduates, staff, and Board members assesses all applicants and makes the final determination on candidate selection.
Notification
Mid-May
Accepted candidates are notified and receive detailed information for confirming their commitment. One-half of the $1,500 tuition fee is due at the time commitment form is submitted in late June. Remainder is due in early August. Limited scholarships are available based on financial need — contact the MLP Executive Director for details
Course Work
October - April
The program spans seven months with 12 full days of curriculum. See program description or class schedule.
Graduation
April
Equipped with a depth understanding of the community aspirations, strengths and gaps, graduates engage on their service journey through
- Dialogue with nonprofit agencies and city / county commissions to identify matches with strengths, skills, talents and passion for mission
- Expressing interest to serve
- Being appointed and actively serving
- Joining the MLPAA
- Reporting service positions, as acquired
- Nominating future potential candidates