Western Governors’ Leadership Institute (2026 Cohort)

The Western Governors’ Leadership Institute is designed to recognize, reward, and promote the effective exercise of leadership by young adults across the West.

Duration: One‑day leadership development forum + attendance at WGA Annual Meeting Format: In‑person, hosted alongside the WGA Annual Meeting Activities:

• Intimate conversations with governors, CEOs, and thought leaders
• Leadership training sessions
• Networking with peers and policymakers Benefits:
• Recognition as a delegate representing your state/territory/tribe
• Full expenses covered
• Exposure to high‑level leadership and governance discussions

• Ages of 21 and 26 years old
• Young adults representing western states, territories, or tribes (Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming)
• Alternatively, candidates who are enrolled members of state or federally recognized tribes and residing in the West may apply to represent their tribes.
• Application + two recommendation letters required
• Commitment to attend the leadership forum and WGA Annual Meeting