Memphis Workforce Leadership Academy, Class of 2023

The Memphis Workforce Leadership Academy — launched in partnership by Greater Memphis Chamber and the Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program — brings leaders from across the Memphis workforce ecosystem together for a year-long series of retreats, workshops, and action learning projects. The Academy provides a forum for local leaders to work collaboratively to identify local and regional systems-based challenges and create shared solutions for economic opportunity for all. Fellows work with leading practitioners throughout the country as they deepen networks; strengthen systems leadership skills; apply race, equity, and systems change frameworks to their work; and increase understanding of effective strategies and programs.

“We don’t just want to be known as the logistical hub that keeps the world moving. We want to be known as the city that moved its people to economic stability. Participation in the Memphis Workforce Leadership Academy will support the creation of a workforce ecosystem that ensures no one is left behind during this historic period of economic growth in Memphis.”

The Memphis Workforce Leadership Academy is one of eight local academies launched in 2023. Alumni of the Academy become part of the Aspen Institute’s Economic Opportunity Fellows Network, joining Fellows from fourteen previous Academies in eleven cities in the US and Canada.