The African American Leadership Institute of Southern Arizona (AALI), a program of the African American Legacy Fund in partnership with the State of Black Arizona, welcomes Southern Arizona leaders who identify as Black and/or African American.

AALI is committed to the individual development of African American leaders to increase African American participation in key civic, political, and workforce-related leadership roles.

2024 Theme: Emotional Brilliance: Mastering EQ for Greater Equity

This theme invites students to explore the vibrant spectrum of emotional intelligence as a transformative force in achieving social equity. The course will uncover how EQ can empower individuals to effectively navigate interpersonal conflicts, systemic barriers, and personal challenges, turning them into opportunities for advocacy and social change.

Upon graduating from the Institute, AALI participants have a deeper understanding of the dynamics around culture and race across Arizona’s history and how these dynamics manifest in key sectors today. They will also come away with actionable steps to build Black leadership in themselves and their networks.

Tuition for this program is $1,000 and includes all required materials, supplies, meals, and snacks.

Applications open on August 1 and close on September 6 via the State of Black Arizona website here for the 2024 cohort.

Questions? Please contact info@stateofblackarizona.org.

Information Sessions

We encourage interested applicants to learn more about 2024 application guidelines and program components during our free information sessions.

Virtual Information Session
Date: Thursday, August 15 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Register To Attend

In-Person Information Session
Date: Friday, August 16 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: Community Foundation Campus
Register To Attend

About The African American Leadership Institute Southern Arizona

AALI leverages collective power to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth in our Black communities through 10-week sessions to be held from October 3 – December 7th at the Community Foundation Campus.

We do this by increasing the number of African American leaders and broadening the community’s awareness of a wider pool of capable, civic-minded African American professionals.

  • AALI foregrounds the role culture plays in leadership development and attainment.
  • Our curriculum is designed to build on participants’ strengths and life experiences, promoting personal and professional development with authentic expressions of identity and practical visions for advancing Black representation in positions of influence across Arizona.
  • The Institute also sparks critical conversations about the state-wide diversity and inclusion gaps. Through education, reflection, and networking, participants identify solutions for building racial equity in their communities and workplaces.