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Putting Leadership into Action, Solutions into Place.

About the Program

Bingham Fellows was created in 1988 through a $500,000 endowment from the Mary and Barry Bingham Sr. The program has provided experienced leaders with the opportunity to put into practice the skills that credential them as a leader of leaders. Side by side with peers, participants provide critical issues with visibility and momentum to move our community forward.

Outcomes from over 25 years of Bingham Fellows projects demonstrate both imagination and practical gathering of critical resources to address obvious social needs. Learn about the 2016 topic, “Empowering Citizens to Live Healthier Lives.”

In recent years, they’ve contributed to the development of a long-term vision for our community, enhanced environmental responsibility through initiatives at the grassroots and policy levels, worked to attract and retain talent with an internship program now managed by Greater Louisville Inc. and helped form the Kentucky Indiana Exchange, a regional leadership coalition.  The impact of the Fellows goes back to the 1990s with the creation of The Housing Partnership, the working concept of the Sustain Louisville arm of Louisville Metro government, growth of local farmers’ markets and numerous other positive outcomes. See highlights of the Bingham Fellows outcomes since 1989.

Learn about the 2017 topic

The Bingham Fellows topic for 2017 is: “Winning the Talent of the Future.”

Attend the info session on Tuesday. September 27 to learn more about this year’s topic. You’ll have the chance to learn more about the Bingham Fellows program, hear from past graduates about their experience, gain more insight on what the program hopes to accomplish, and network with a great group of leaders who are also considering the program.
RSVP for the info session – space is limited

  • “Bingham Fellows was an amazing opportunity to meet, learn from, and network with Louisville’s top leaders in every industry.  Additionally, I’m proud of the impact we were able to have on an important community issue, and look forward to seeing the results for many years to come.”
    Matthew Ayers (BF ’15), Chief Administrative Officer, Norton Hospital

  • “To be a graduate of the Bingham Fellows means a lot to me, especially with the significant legacy of the program’s namesake.  I especially appreciate the opportunity to meet and work with so many of the new generation of leaders from our region.  We came together around one common goal, and with their energy and enthusiasm, I know that together we are able to help create a better Louisville and a better Kentucky!”
    Skipper Martin (BF ’15), Strategic Partner, McCarthy Strategic Solutions

  • “Bingham Fellows provided an opportunity like no other to connect with top leadership around a community issue. My organization was able to contribute to a larger movement and have access to expertise and additional partners that will increase our impact in the community.”
    Steve Tarver (BF ’12), President and CEO, YMCA of Greater Louisville

How Individuals Benefit

    • You’ll have the rare opportunity to make a significant difference while putting your leadership skills to the test.
    • Gain recognition as a community leader providing solutions for tough civic challenges.
    • You’ll work with a unique gathering of experts and civilians and gain insights from leaders on particular topics or issues.

Read what our Bingham Fellows bloggers say about the experience.

How Organizations Benefit

  • Your organization will gain an insider’s view and new insights to particular community issues.
  • There’s simply no better way to meet and work with the area’s top experts and key players.
  • The program provides advanced leadership experience in thinking big and effecting change.

Who should Apply

Community leaders who have expertise or have a strong interest in the Bingham Fellows topic along with a commitment towards positive change should apply. Bingham Fellows participants are typically graduates of other Leadership Louisville Center programs including Focus Louisville, Ignite Louisville, Leadership Louisville and the Leadership Network. See the list of Bingham Fellows graduates since 1991. Graduates of other community and state leadership programs are also encouraged to participate. Nominate a friend or colleague who would make a great Bingham Fellow.

Learn how to apply

Time commitment

Bingham Fellows participants must attend the mandatory orientation in January and are expected to attend each of the program days. The program also includes a mandatory two-day retreat, usually in April. (see 2017 Bingham Fellows program calendar)

Additionally, a considerable amount of time is spent outside of the program day in small groups to further explore the topic and implement solutions.

How to Apply

Applications for the 2017 Bingham Fellows class are open August 29 – October 14. The online application considers subject matter expertise, career experience, past Leadership Louisville Center program experience and responses to essay questions.

Apply Now

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Questions?

See Frequently Asked Questions about Bingham Fellows or contact Angella Wilson at (502) 561-0458 or via email.