Leadership Exchange Academy

Where leaders come to exchange ideas and learn about good government practices, the public policy process, and free enterprise.

The goal of the cohort program is to create exceptional opportunities for adult leaders in Oklahoma to exchange ideas, learn about good governance practices, the public policy process, and increase their vision of growth based on free enterprise. The cohort program is designed so participants can build new and lasting relationships with program members, Oklahoma leaders, and public policy experts.

The program is administered and run by The State Chamber Research Foundation. 
PAST SPEAKERS

How does the cohort program work?

Cohort program participants must first apply and then be accepted into the cohort program. After being selected through an application process and paying the cohort program tuition, participants are admitted into the cohort program. Each cohort program consists of four days of programming. Full participation in each of the four days is mandatory.

What are the program details?

  • Submission Deadline: May 1, 2024

  • Program Dates: June 12 – 13 and July 17 – 18, 2025

  • Cost: $250 for all four days

Who should apply to the LEA cohort program?

We encourage leaders of any background to apply. In addition, applicants should have an interest in the public policy process, along with a strong desire to build lasting relationships with program members, Oklahoma leaders and public policy experts, and learn about good governance practices and free enterprise.

What is the size and makeup of the cohort program?

Because the cohort program is designed to be an engaging small group experience, the number of participants admitted is limited. We receive many applications and admit less than 40 into the program. We have a variety of backgrounds and ages represented in the cohort program. Our participants are all well-respected leaders in their professions and in their communities. We have had former mayors, top business, military, community, and public policy leaders participate in our cohort program. 

After the cohort program is completed, what is next?

Each cohort program consists of a different group of participants. Once the four-day cohort program is completed, participants become alumni. Upon successful completion of the cohort program, alumni are given further opportunities to continue to develop as leaders, interact with alumni from other cohorts and help mentor current and future program participants. Alumni are also given opportunities to participate in special events and activities. These opportunities are only available to program alumni. 

What topics are covered during the four-day cohort program?

In general, each cohort program typically includes the following topics:

Legislative Process 

  • Committee work and how a bill becomes a law 

  • How the budget process is managed 

  • Working with constituents and stakeholders 

  • The development of Oklahoma’s government and its unique characteristics 

Oklahoma Policy Overview 

Participants explore various aspects of policy topics in Oklahoma including: 

  • Economic Development 

  • Oil and Natural Gas 

  • Oklahoma’s Budget 

  • Corrections 

  • Education 

  • Infrastructure 

Campaign Structure and Mechanics

  • Best practices 

  • Mistakes and misconceptions 

  • Fundraising 

Leadership

  • Leadership needed in business and public policy 

  • Vignettes on leadership 

  • Problem solving 

Free Enterprise  

  • What is free enterprise and economic freedom? 

  • Foundational principles of free enterprise 

  • Innovation, risk taking and entrepreneurial opportunities 

  • Regulation and licensing