All application submissions will be carefully reviewed to ultimately assemble a diverse class of Fellows (in terms of life experience, work experience, geography, type of organization, as well as other unique characteristics). A committee of LeadingAge California member leaders will evaluate applications using the following criteria:

• How well-defined, insightful and introspective are the leadership essays?
• How well does the applicant demonstrate a personal commitment to the field of aging services?
• How well does the applicant demonstrate a dedication to life-long learning?
• To what extent does the applicant possess the capacity to become a transformational leader?
   

Application Checklist

Please submit all of the following information along with your completed application (remember that incomplete applications will not be reviewed):

• A resume or brief description of your work experience, educational background and other pertinent information (please limit your submission to no more than two pages).
• Recent photo (headshot with plain background; in-focus, and appropriate for professional setting; high-resolution of 300 dpi or better; and taken within the last 12 months). The photo will not be included in the selection process. If selected, the photo will be used for any EMERGE promotional placements, including recognizing the new class on LeadingAge California’s website. You may upload your photo via the online application or you can email your photo to Kevin Tuuaga at ktuuaga@leadingageca.org
• A brief summary description of your experience in the field of aging services and the responsibilities associated with your current position (please limit your submission to no more than one page).
• A 1-2 page essay response to all three questions below (applicants must submit three separate essays total). Please make sure you provide enough information to give the selection committee insight into your experience and desire to be part of this program. One or two sentence answers are not recommended (please limit your submission to no more than two pages per essay).
   

Application Essays

• Essay #1: Describe the capabilities you possess that make you an effective leader and the specific ways in which you have utilized these attributes in your personal and professional life. In doing so, please refer to a significant professional achievement, your specific role in attaining that achievement and the impact it had on you and your organization.

• Essay #2: Describe the perspective and knowledge you hope to acquire as a result of your participation in EMERGE.

• Essay #3: Describe your personal commitment to the field of aging services and how you envision using your experience in EMERGE to enhance aging services within your organization, your community and at the state level.

• Letters of Reference: Three letters of reference (one personal and two professional). We suggest approaching selected references early in the process to ensure they are completed prior to the February 28, 2025 deadline (please limit your submission to no more than one page per letter). Please include letters of reference in your completed application packet.

Scholarships/Additional Information

A limited number of tuition scholarships are available. For additional information on EMERGE scholarships or for questions regarding the application process, please contact Kevin Tuuaga at 916-469-3365 or ktuuaga@leadingageca.org