African American Leadership Program (AALP)
Established in 2008, AALP is a transformational experience that has unleashed the talent of 250 African American professionals across the Metropolitan Milwaukee Region.
The unique aspect of AALP is the careful curation of Black leaders from various industries and organizational structures seeking a shared experience that elevates individual competencies, professional expertise, and managerial capabilities while deepening community connections to address the well-being of Milwaukee. We encourage public, private, non-profit, and entrepreneurial leaders demonstrating high-potential to lead self, others, and high-impact initiatives to apply. Successful applicants are committed to personal growth and development with a minimum of 5+ years of experience leading people, projects or initiatives, and a strong desire to take on increasing levels of responsibility at work and/or in the community.
Why AALP?
Leadership
AALP leverages each participant’s unique capabilities to enhance performance and boost career advancement.
Workplace
AALP strengthens and retains a diverse talent base for Milwaukee organizations.
Community
AALP builds a network of skilled leaders who cross the boundaries of geography and industry to help our community flourish.
AALAM’s comprehensive leadership development approach uniquely embraces the opportunity to cultivate leadership talent across all sectors, creating a powerful multiplier effect throughout the region. Our survey data from AALP Cohorts 1-12 demonstrates this broad-based impact.
Nearly 70% of alumni reported leadership progression resulting from the development program. Specifically, alumni reported the following advancements:
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- 21% moved 1 leadership level since AALP to supervisor
- 21% moved 2 leadership levels since AALP to manager
- 17% moved 3 leadership levels since AALP to sr. manager
- 14% moved 4 leadership levels since AALP to director or sr. director
- 12% moved 5 leadership levels since AALP to VP or higher
- 50% secured positions on community and nonprofit boards,
- improving governance and decision-making
- 50% reported earning one or more certifications through continuous learning
- 11% reported earning a bachelor’s or graduate degree after completion of AALP
- 10% launched or expanded entrepreneurial ventures, creating new jobs and economic opportunities
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These outcomes clearly demonstrate a single developed leader influences organizational cultures, board governance decisions, public policy initiatives, and business innovation, creating immeasurable value across the region.
Apply for cohort 16 today!
.At AALAM, we believe in empowering the next generation of leaders in Milwaukee who will create impactful change in their communities, organizations, and beyond. AALP is designed to provide leaders with the tools, knowledge, and experiences they need to excel in today’s dynamic world.
Whether you’re looking to develop your leadership skills, expand your professional network, or take the next step in your career, this program offers you the opportunity to grow in a supportive and engaging environment. By participating, you will gain practical insights from industry experts, work alongside like-minded individuals, and receive executive coaching that will shape your leadership journey.
Why Apply?
Increase Your Self Awareness: Define who you are as a leader through activities and assessments that will enable you to more effectively lead others, within your organization, and in the community.
Expand Your Professional Network: Connect with AALP Alumni, mentors, and influencers who can support your personal and career growth.
Access Exclusive Resources: Get access to valuable tools, workshops, events, and executive coaching that can accelerate your leadership journey.
Gain Real-World Experience: Apply what you learn through a hands-on project and experiences.
Who Should Apply?
The unique aspect of AALP is the careful curation of leaders from various industries and organizational structures seeking a shared experience that will level-up their personal and professional brand as well as leadership abilities while deepening their community connections toward meaningful impact.
We encourage public, private, non-profit, and entrepreneurial leaders demonstrating high-potential to lead self, others, and high-impact initiatives to apply.
Successful applicants will be committed to personal growth and development with a minimum of 5-7 years of experience leading people, projects or initiatives and desire to take on increasing levels of responsibility at work and/or in the community.
Cohort 14 Graduation
| Program Timeline | |
| Application Period | May 1 – August 1, 2025 |
| Interviews Complete | September 1, 2025 |
| Applicant Notifications | September 2025 |
| Opening Retreat | October 17-19, 2025 |
| Monthly Sessions | November 2025 – May 2026 |
| Fireside Chats | December 3, 2025 March 18, 2026 |
| Closing Retreat | June 5-6, 2026 |
| Closing Celebration | October 2026 |
Interested in AALP? Connect With Us.
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