Eastern Leaders Academy Now Accepting Applications

Community members ready to grow as leaders and make a lasting impact in Carbon and Emery counties will soon have their opportunity. Applications for the Eastern Leaders Academy are now open through June 30, inviting emerging leaders to take part in one of the region’s most impactful leadership development programs.

Eastern Leaders Academy is designed to develop changemakers, individuals committed to strengthening their communities through collaboration, innovation and informed leadership. Through a nine-month immersive experience, participants gain valuable insight into the issues shaping Carbon and Emery counties, while building meaningful relationships with fellow leaders across industries.

Limited to just 14 participants each year, ELA offers a highly personalized and hands-on learning environment. The program focuses on helping leaders better understand complex community challenges while equipping them with the tools to create positive, lasting change.

Participants engage in monthly “Impact Days,” each centered around a key theme impacting the region. These include topics such as economic development, education, government, tourism and community health. Through behind-the-scenes tours, expert-led discussions and direct interaction with decision-makers, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of how Carbon and Emery counties function, and how they can play a role in shaping their future.

Carbon County Commissioner Jared Haddock, a founding supporter of the program alongside Commissioner Larry Jensen, said the academy has real-world impact.

“As a commissioner, my time is extremely limited, but Eastern Leaders Academy is one of the most valuable places I can invest it,” Haddock said. “I’ve seen firsthand how it changes the way leaders communicate, collaborate and approach complex challenges. The academy brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds; and what they gain here doesn’t stay in the classroom, it carries into their businesses, organizations and communities. That ripple effect is what drives meaningful, positive change across our region.”

The program goes beyond local engagement, offering participants exclusive access to statewide leadership experiences. This includes opportunities such as:

• A two-day Leadership Summit.
• Government Day at the Utah State Capitol.

These experiences connect participants with broader leadership networks and provide insight into policy, infrastructure and statewide collaboration.

At its core, the Eastern Leaders Academy is about unity and progress. The program brings together elected officials, business leaders, educators and community advocates to foster collaboration and a shared vision for the future.

Jennifer Colosimo, growth and outreach director for Castleview Hospital and a 2026 graduate of the program, shared how the experience shaped her personal and professional growth.

“Eastern Leaders Academy helped reshape how I listen, connect and show up for others,” Colosimo said. “It challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and grow into a leader who leads with both confidence and purpose. The relationships and perspective I gained have truly changed how I approach my role in the community.”

Applications for the upcoming cohort are now open and the deadline to apply is June 30. Participant selection will take place in August and the program officially begins with a kickoff retreat in September. Learn more and apply at eastern.usu.edu/ela.

The full program runs through May, concluding with a graduation celebration. Tuition for the academy is $1,500, with limited scholarships available.

For those looking to expand their leadership skills, build powerful connections and make a difference in Carbon and Emery counties, Eastern Leaders Academy offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity.