While participation in RFL Academy requires a substantial commitment in time and energy, graduates of our program tell us again and again that the skills and relationships they developed through their participation have transformed their lives. We hope you will consider this dynamic, transformative program.
We also recommend that you review our Class Agreements. The Class Agreements are the formal commitment participants make upon acceptance to the program.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What exactly is Roaring Fork Leadership?
A: We work with people who want to make a difference in the Roaring Fork and Colorado River Valleys. We are a non-profit founded in 1988.
Q: Who participates in Roaring Fork Leadership Academy?
A: We have over 1000+ alum, 80% of whom still reside in the region. Participants in Roaring Fork Leadership are from all sectors including government, education, large and small business, non-profit, and health. They come from all communities in the Roaring Fork and Colorado River Valleys, representing different ages, races, ethnicities, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, and diverse backgrounds, bringing a wide range of perspectives and experiences to the program.
Q: How do I apply for the Academy?
A: We run one RFL Academy per year, from late August through May. If you would like to review the application and requirements for the program, read on… If you are interested in our other programs – please check out our other programs RFL Mastermind, RFL Live, and, RFL CoLab.
Q: What is the timeline for RFL Academy’s selection?
A: The application period runs through July 15, each year. Upon receiving an application, a brief interview is held and notices of the decision is typically within a week. If selected, confirmation of participation is in early August including a non-refundable deposit to secure a spot. Spots not taken are filled by our waiting list.
Q: What if I don’t get in?
A: Our goal is to unite a diverse group of individuals. Our class size limit is around 40, and this means that sometimes we must turn away some applicants. We do encourage re-applications and hope you will return if we can’t make it happen in the current year.
Q: Do I need to have an alumnus write my nomination?
A: A nomination from an RFL alumnus is appreciated. They tend to be the best people to write your nomination because they understand the kind of experience our program provides. A nomination from a non-alumni is also acceptable.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Tuition for the RFL Academy 2020 is $3,950. Your tuition covers about 60% of the total costs of the program. The remaining 40% is raised by RFL through grant, sponsorships, and donations, and are considered an investment in you from the community.
Q: What if I can’t afford this?
A: We do have financial aid earmarked every year for participants who need help with tuition, as RFL does not want any financial barrier to exist to participate. No selection is made based on your ability to pay.
Application and Selection Process
The application and selection process strives to create a diverse representation of the Roaring Fork and Colorado River Valley communities. Applications are open to ANY interested community member.
- Each application must include the completed application form and a completed letter of recommendation or nomination.
- Applicants who re-apply to the program are given special consideration.
- Scholarships are available.
- Applicants participate in the interview process.
To submit an application, please complete our online application, see the top of this page.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Participation in Roaring Fork Leadership’s Academy requires a substantial commitment in time and energy from each class member (approx. 120+ hours per year.) The program meets generally from 8 am to 5 pm, usually 1 x per month, August/September – May. (There are a couple multi-day programs.) Please consider carefully the following requirements.
- Inability to attend the opening 2-day retreat in September and the 2-day Adaptive Leadership session in November will automatically eliminate a participant from continuing with the program.
- Participants who miss more than 2 sessions will be required to withdraw from the program. The integrity of the program requires that participants be present at all sessions to both learn the leadership skills and to develop personal relationships.
- Complete all reading and writing assignments in a timely manner.
- Respect the confidential nature of the comments and discussion made during the program.
- Tuition is to be paid in full prior to the start of the program as noted, unless by other arrangements have been made with the Executive Director.
TUITION REQUIREMENTS
Tuition for the RFL Academy Class of 2025 program is $3.950. After final selections are made, a $550 non-refundable deposit is due by August 5. The remaining tuition is due as noted in the tuition agreement form. A monthly payment plan may be worked out. We have a limited number of scholarship funds available each year. Tuition can be paid by the applicant, their employer, by scholarship assistance, or by a combination of these three sources.
