Minority Leadership Program: Executive Activator (MLP EA) is a supplement to the original program and includes classic MLP elements and newly designed content. MLP: EA will build on previous cycles of the program by curating a space rooted in social justice, for senior level health department leaders of color to engage in critical conversations around relinquishing power; program sustainability; overcoming institutional barriers to equity; developing succession plans; addressing workforce wellness; dismantling white supremacy; and establishing leadership accountability mechanisms.
MLP has traditionally served as a launchpad for dozens of public health professionals of color to visualize and own their leadership roles in ending health inequities. NASTAD recognizes the need to further increase the capacity of senior level executives of color in health departments, and this version of the program will equip them with the peer support and introspection needed to advance their own leadership goals and the priorities of their respective health departments.
Application
We encourage all interested and eligible applicants of color across the nation to apply. Please reach out directly to Vrushabh Shah if you have any questions, clarifications, or comments regarding the application process or requirements. We look forward to reviewing your materials!
Ideal characteristics for MLP: EA applicants
- Person of color in senior-level leadership position with at least 7 years of experience at a state or CDC directly funded city/county health department position within an HIV, viral hepatitis, or drug user health program:
- Eligible jurisdictions include state health departments in the continental U.S., Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and Pacific Island members of NASTAD (American Samoa, Guam, the Federated States of Micronesia, Marshall Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, and Palau).
- Eligible CDC funded jurisdictions include health departments in LA County, Baltimore, Houston, Philadelphia, DC, San Francisco, New York City, and Chicago.
- Ex. Health Department Bureau Chiefs; HIV Program Directors; Senior SSP Leads etc.
- A strong professional work history that demonstrates increasing development of skills and increasing responsibilities.
- An appropriate professional position to share and communicate their work with public health peers and the general public.
- Demonstrated expertise exercising leadership in the field of HIV and/or viral hepatitis.
- A passion for dismantling white supremacy work culture and advancing health equity.
- A willingness to share lessons learned and wisdom with professional peers and participate in accountability planning beyond retreat participation.
- A proven commitment to giving up professional power and investing in leadership opportunities for other leaders of color.
- An ability to attend the in-person MLP: Executive Activator retreat August 5-9, 2024, in Tucson, Arizona.
The estimated timeline for the application process is as follows:
- April 29, 2024: Applications Due
- May 6 –31, 2024: Applicant Interviews
- June 10, 2024: Acceptance Letters Delivered
MLP: EA applications are due no later than Monday, April 29, 2024 at 5:00 PM ET. Thank you for your time and interest!
Application Materials
Webinar
NASTAD hosted this webinar to share more background on this exciting new program, its distinction from previous MLP cycles, and opportunities to participate. We encourage all interested applicants with any questions to review this recording and share additional questions directly with Vrushabh Shah.