Disability Lead

Interested in applying for the Disability Lead Institute?

The Institute is the only leadership program in the nation specifically for leaders with disabilities, and that makes connections to opportunities for civic engagement and leadership. The Institute is a year-long fellowship that centers disability identity to explore leadership skills, civic engagement, and understanding of self and others.

Join us for an upcoming informational webinar where we’ll talk about the 2027 Institute. Our Director of Programs, Clare Killy, will discuss what to expect about the fellowship experience, the application and selection processes, and answer questions live.

📅 Thursday, June 11
⏰ 11:30 AM–12:30 PM CT
📍 Zoom

A recording will be shared with those registered and on YouTube.

🔗 Register today and learn more about the Institute. https://www.disabilitylead.org/events/institute-webinar

Applications are now open for the 2027 Institute!

The Institute is the only leadership program in the nation specifically for leaders with disabilities, and that makes connections to opportunities for civic engagement and leadership. The Institute is a year-long fellowship that centers disability identity to explore leadership skills, civic engagement, and understanding of self and others.

What you need to apply.
1️⃣ Live in Chicagoland or Southwestern Pennsylvania
2️⃣Part one and two of the application
3️⃣Answer the (3) essay questions in part two of the application
4️⃣A completed nomination form

Application deadlines
☀️ Early Bird – Wednesday, July 1, 2026*
🗓️ Final – Wednesday, September 9, 2026

*Applicants who submit their application by the early bird deadline are guaranteed an interview.

Are you ready for a transformative leadership development experience? Apply today. www.disabilitylead.org/apply