Fellows FAQ

All Fellows must submit an application and receive acceptance into the Program, then make a commitment to attend all scheduled sessions. We strive to ensure the makeup of our programs represents the diversity of our city. Fellows come to us from all industry segments, including public and non-profit organizations. We are looking for applicants with diverse perspectives, leadership potential, and a passion to better themselves and their community.

Please visit the "about" section of the New Memphis website for additional information. As we navigate changing workplaces, New Memphis is still committed to providing the development you deserve.

Full participation by each member of a Fellows cohort is key to the group's cohesiveness and crucial to the individual Fellows experience. As such, attendance at every session over the year long program is expected. It is usually possible to address a single conflicting date, but more than one is strongly discouraged. If the conflict overlaps with Foundations of Leadership or Team Trek, we encourage you to consider applying at a later time.

The total number of hours spent over the course of the 12 month program is approximately 125 hours and is inclusive of classes, Team Trek and the CAP project. Most Fellows sessions are 3 hours in length, with some sessions lasting longer.

Fellows pay a $1,200 administrative fee to help ensure a top quality experience. This fee can be paid over time, and a range of payment options are available. The true cost of the yearlong experience is more than $7,000. However, New Memphis receives generous support from corporations, foundations, and individuals to significantly offset that cost, safeguarding a level playing field.

Sessions are primarily held at the New Memphis office, with select classes held at various locations in Memphis, and a single weekend spent at Team Trek in Heber Springs, Arkansas.

Each cohort has about 30 diverse participants. Cohorts are kept intentionally small to encourage self-exploration and team building.

Yes. Christina, our Director of Leadership Programs, is a graduate of our Fellows program and is happy to speak with you or put you in touch with a Fellows graduate to share about their experience. Please feel free to reach out to her at christina@newmemphis.org.

There are two Fellows cohorts a year, one beginning in April and one in September. April sessions primarily meet during the evening, while September sessions meet primarily during the morning. Applications are accepted year round and cohorts are notified of acceptance a month before the program starts.

Fellows receives a high number applicants per year, therefore, we cannot accept all qualified candidates. However, we encourage you to re-apply if you aren't accepted the first time. Applications are valid for a year after submission.