About EMERGE

In a healthcare landscape marked by ongoing change and increased demands on organizations to achieve more with limited resources, professionals in older adult services play a crucial role. They are expected not only to lead but also to drive innovation. To support these professionals, LeadingAge California offers EMERGE, a year-long leadership development program that goes beyond the basics. 

Since 2010, EMERGE has been a catalyst for individuals seeking to transform their leadership skills to lead highly engaged and innovative organizations. EMERGE goes beyond education. It inspires creativity, resilience, and forward thinking. Participants build a powerful network of peers who mentor, support, and drive change across aging services. In a world demanding innovation with limited resources, EMERGE empowers professionals to lead with impact.
 

Goals & Benefits

EMERGE seeks to prepare future leaders in the older adult services industry, help member communities develop motivated leaders to fuel organizational success, and enhance the effectiveness of the wider older adult services community. Goals include:

• Create a shared meaning of leadership and its fundamental principles
• Help Fellows explore various dimensions of transformative leadership, with a focus on relationship building
• Support Fellows in their individual leadership journeys, promoting self-awareness and authenticity
• Develop a network of Fellows who will support one another as well as the values of the program
• Enhance engagement and loyalty to LeadingAge California
• Increase the value to member organizations that sponsor Fellows

Fellows graduate at the LeadingAge California BOLD Annual Conference, joining an alumni network of transformative leaders across the state.

Learn more about the program here.
 

Program at a Glance

EMERGE is a one-year immersive leadership journey featuring:

Applications for 2026-2027 Cohort

Ready to grow your leadership impact? Applications are now open until February 25, 2026.
Learn more about the application and process here.