Cornerstone Program
Transform. Lead. Surpass Expectations.
Metro Detroit's Flagship Leadership Experience
Is This Your Next Step?
- Expand your influence beyond your current role
- Connect with leaders across diverse sectors
- Make meaningful impact in your community
- Navigate complex organizational dynamics
- Transform your leadership capabilities
The Cornerstone Program offers the network, knowledge, and opportunities to elevate your leadership journey.
Why Leadership Oakland's Cornerstone Program?
This isn’t just another leadership course—it’s Metro Detroit’s premier collaborative leadership experience. For over 35 years, we’ve been transforming professionals into regional leaders through:
- Comprehensive Scope: Dive deep into the region’s most important areas—from economy and government to diversity and the arts—developing a thorough understanding of regional opportunities and challenges.
- Diverse Community: Connect with leaders across industries, expanding your perspective and building lasting relationships that extend far beyond the program.
- Real-World Impact: Apply your learning through hands-on projects and discussions that drive tangible change in your organization and community.
“I got my dream job through a person I met at Leadership Oakland. I can’t think of any other business group that has made such an impact on my professional network.”
The Cornerstone Experience
Leadership Development Retreat
Begin your journey with an immersive 2.5-day retreat that sets the foundation for your transformation.
Monthly Sessions
Economy & Government:
Understanding regional economic forces
Nonprofits & Human Services:
Exploring community impact
Culture, Engagement, and Inclusion:
Building inclusive leadership
Health:
Navigating healthcare challenges
Comprehensive system insights
Education & Workforce Development:
Addressing talent development
Arts & Culture:
Connecting creativity and leadership
Planning for sustainable futures
Your Outcomes
- Enhanced leadership capabilities across all contexts
- Deep understanding of regional challenges and opportunities
- Powerful network of diverse, influential leaders
- Clear vision for community impact
- Actionable strategies for organizational growth
“Because of Leadership Oakland, I now sit on two non-profit boards and am much more involved with community projects.”
Common Questions Answered
Already too busy?
The program is structured for active professionals, enhancing rather than competing with your existing commitments. This is about investing in yourself in a manageable, impactful way.
Not enough leadership experience?
We welcome both emerging and established leaders. Your potential and willingness to grow matter more than your current leadership level.
What about the investment?
The program tuition is $3,995, with partial scholarships and payment plans available to ensure accessibility. This investment in your leadership development creates lasting value for your career and organization.
Wondering about the career impact?
Beyond immediate skill development, you’ll gain access to an influential network, deep regional insights, and enhanced visibility in the business community.
What are the session dates for the class?
Here are the session dates and topics for LOXXXVII
- August 30, 2026 – September 1, 2026 – Leadership Development Retreat
- September 23, 2026 – Government
- October 21, 2026 – Economy & Workforce Development
- November 18, 2026 – Nonprofits and Human Services
- December 9, 2026 – Culture, Engagement, and Inclusion
- January 20, 2027 – Health
- February 10, 2027 – Justice System
- March 10, 2027 – Education
- April 14, 2027 – Arts & Culture
- May 12, 2027 – Environment
- TBD – Day of Service Project
- June 2, 2027 – Shaping the Future
- June 3, 2027 – Graduation
Apply Now for Class LOXXXVII
Application Options
Applications now open for LOXXXVII
Important Dates
Mandatory Retreat: August 30 – September 1 at Higgins Lake
Early Application Deadline: April 30
Standard Application Deadline:
Tuition
Program Cost: $3,995
Connect With Us
Schedule a conversation about your leadership goals