Applications for the 2026–2027 U.S. Leadership Accelerator are now open through March 19, 2026!
Applications submitted by March 5, 2026 will receive priority consideration.
Read on to learn more and apply.
About the U.S. Leadership Accelerator
The U.S. Leadership Accelerator is a tuition-free, 9-month hybrid leadership fellowship designed for early-career, non-clinical public health professionals based in the United States.
Through immersive leadership training, executive coaching, and connection with a global community of peers, fellows strengthen their ability to lead change and advance health equity — all while continuing to work in their current roles across a range of public health institutions.
A Workforce in Crisis
The public health workforce in the United States is facing unprecedented challenges:
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Persistent underfunding of critical public health infrastructure
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Staffing shortages at state and local departments
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Burnout driving experienced workers out of the field
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An impending leadership gap as many leaders near retirement
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Widening health inequities disproportionately affecting historically marginalized communities
These systemic challenges require a new generation of confident, equity-centered leaders prepared to navigate complexity and strengthen the public health system. The U.S. Leadership Accelerator addresses this need by equipping rising leaders with the competencies, networks, and support systems to lead with impact.
Why Organizations Invest in Their Teams
Leadership development strengthens organizational performance. Supporting staff to participate in the U.S. Leadership Accelerator yields measurable benefits:
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85% of fellows assumed expanded leadership roles during the fellowship
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97% reported increased leadership competencies (e.g., equity, systems thinking)
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100% of supervisors said fellows were critical to organizational success
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88% of supervisors indicated they would consider promoting the fellow
The fellowship is designed to benefit both the individual and the organization by applying leadership learning to real challenges in real time.
What Fellows Gain
Deepen Self-Awareness
Fellows develop clarity around their personal strengths, leadership values, and vision for advancing health equity.
Extend Strategic Networks
Participants connect with peers, mentors, and advisors across the U.S. and globally, joining a community of over 1,300 alumni.
Build Learning Capacity
Fellows learn how to identify barriers to growth, construct personalized learning agendas, and expand their leadership potential.
Understand Systems Change
The program equips fellows with tools to analyze complex public health systems and design strategies for lasting impact.
Increase Leadership Efficacy
Through coaching and practical application, fellows gain confidence in achieving results in workplaces and communities.
Access Ongoing Resources
Graduates remain part of GHC’s lifelong network and have access to ongoing professional development opportunities.
Key Dates for 2026–2027
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February 16, 2026: Applications open
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March 5, 2026: Priority deadline
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March 19, 2026: Final deadline
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June 2026: Applicants notified
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September 2026: Fellowship kickoff and first virtual convening
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October/November 2026: First national in-person retreat (4–5 days)
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May 2027: End-of-program national in-person retreat and transition to alumni community
A full program calendar will be provided upon acceptance.
What to Expect
The U.S. Leadership Accelerator follows a hybrid learning model with mandatory engagement in the following components:
Learning
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Monthly virtual Leadership Academy workshops (3 hours)
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Monthly small group learning sessions (1–2 hours)
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Asynchronous preparation (1–2 hours per month)
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Optional webinars, trainings, and networking opportunities
Coaching
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360° assessment
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Executive one-on-one coaching
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Ongoing GHC staff coaching and support
Connection
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Two national in-person overnight retreats (fully covered)
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Mentorship from GHC alumni and partners
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Integration into GHC’s global network spanning 40+ countries
Participation in all core components is required unless otherwise noted.
Who Should Apply?
The U.S. Leadership Accelerator is designed for high-potential, early-career public health professionals committed to personal and professional growth.
We welcome applicants working in a broad range of public health settings — including:
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State and local health departments
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Federally qualified health centers
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Community-based organizations
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Universities and research institutions
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Government agencies
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Nonprofit and private sector partners
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Health communications, data, informatics, and behavioral health
Diverse lived experiences and perspectives — especially those informed by navigating health inequities — are strongly encouraged.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, you must:
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Be an emerging public health leader
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Be 21–30 years old by September 1, 2026
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Live and work in the United States full-time
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Be authorized to work in the United States
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Be employed full-time in a U.S. public health role in a non-clinical capacity
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Have worked in your current role for at least three months
There are no specific educational degree requirements.
How to Apply
Applications are open through March 19, 2026, with priority consideration for submissions by March 5, 2026.
Apply here:
https://ghcorps.submittable.com/submit
Step 1: Submit your application online
Include:
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Resume
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References
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Short written responses about your leadership experience
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Demographic information
Step 2: Provide Supervisor Recommendation
A letter of recommendation from your supervisor is required to complete your application.
Step 3: Finalist Interviews
Finalists will be interviewed in May 2026.
Step 4: Notification
All applicants will be informed of their status by June 30, 2026.
Apply here:
https://ghcorps.submittable.com/submit
Before applying, access the application preview to prepare your materials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For detailed FAQs about eligibility, program structure, commitment expectations, and more, visit the official U.S. Leadership Accelerator FAQ page:
https://ghcorps.org/what-we-do/u-s-fellowship-faqs/
Conclusion
The U.S. Leadership Accelerator 2026–2027 offers a tuition-free opportunity for early-career public health professionals to grow as leaders, expand their networks, and contribute more effectively to advancing health equity across the United States.
Fellows gain practical leadership tools, personalized coaching, and connection to a global community — all while continuing in their full-time roles.
Apply by March 19, 2026, with priority consideration for applications submitted by March 5, 2026. This is your chance to elevate your leadership impact and contribute to the future of public health in the U.S.
Apply here:
https://ghcorps.submittable.com/submit
For detailed program information, visit the official overview:
https://ghcorps.org/what-we-do/u-s-fellowship-program-overview/
