Loyola University New Orleans Opens Applications for Ninth Cohort of Women's Leadership Academy

10-month leadership development program connects professionals with executive mentors, prominent speakers, and a network of nearly 400 graduates

NEW ORLEANS, La. (October 2026) – Loyola University New Orleans is accepting applications for the ninth cohort of its Women's Leadership Academy (WLA), a 10-month professional development program designed to strengthen leadership skills, expand professional networks, and increase participants' impact within their organizations and communities. Cohort 9 begins in March 2027.

Offered through Loyola's Office of Professional and Continuing Studies, WLA brings together professionals from diverse industries and backgrounds for an immersive leadership development experience. Since its launch in 2019, the Academy has grown to include more than 375 graduates and a network of more than 100 active mentors and speakers across the Greater New Orleans region.

"One of the things that makes WLA so special is the opportunity to bring together leaders with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives who share a commitment to growing and supporting one another," said Jill Boatright, Assistant Dean of City College at Loyola University New Orleans. "Participants challenge themselves, learn from accomplished professionals, and build meaningful relationships that extend well beyond graduation. It's especially rewarding to see those relationships grow into a lasting community of leaders who continue to learn from and champion one another."

A Comprehensive Leadership Development Experience

Over the course of 10 months, participants gather for one full day each month on Loyola University's campus. Sessions feature prominent keynote speakers, interactive learning experiences, and discussions of real-world leadership challenges.

Each participant receives a dedicated professional mentor and joins a small peer accountability group to encourage reflection, collaboration, and progress toward individual leadership goals. Optional individual coaching provides additional personalized support.

Upon successful completion, participants earn a Loyola University New Orleans Certificate of Completion and 6.0 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

WLA is designed for professionals seeking to deepen their leadership skills and broaden their perspectives. While participants typically hold mid- to senior-level positions, the Academy welcomes applicants at different career stages who are ready to engage in the experience and contribute to the cohort.

Applications Open for Cohort 9

Applications are open through December 11, 2026. The priority application and scholarship deadline is November 9, 2026. Partial scholarships are available, and applicants seeking financial assistance must submit a separate scholarship application by that date. Program tuition is $4,299.

Prospective applicants can attend a virtual information session on Wednesday, November 4, from 11 a.m. to noon, to learn more about the program, application process, and scholarship opportunities. Register here. 

Learn more at https://wla.loyno.edu/ or apply at https://wla.loyno.edu/apply-now.

About Loyola University New Orleans' Office of Professional and Continuing Studies

Loyola's Office of Professional and Continuing Studies provides non-credit professional development, continuing education, and workforce training programs. Its professional certificates, leadership development programs, and customized training help individuals and organizations build skills and respond to evolving workforce needs.

Contact:
Office of Professional and Continuing Studies
Loyola University New Orleans
wla@loyno.edu
https://wla.loyno.edu/