The Policy Institute, based in Helena, Montana, blends authoritative research and hands-on political engagement to create public policy based on economic justice, fair taxation, corporate accountability and environmental responsibility.

Leadership Seminar Series

Each year The Policy Institute identifies emerging progressive leaders in Montana and invites them to participate in the Leadership Seminar Series. The program blends a comprehensive agenda with skilled instructors and a productive learning environment to enable participants to reach their full potential as Montana’s future progressive leaders.

The Leadership program engages men and women who share a desire for public policy based on progressive values – economic justice, fair taxation, corporate accountability, and environmental responsibility. Participants in the program may be local elected officials, college activists, small business owners, career professionals, laborers or community organizers. They may have diverse interests in issues – consumer protection, education, energy, human rights, environment, sustainable development, low-income justice or voter turnout.

The Leadership series is comprised of four weekend sessions convened over a year’s time. Each session is held in a retreat setting, with locations varying from the historic Hotel Finlen in Butte to the wilderness setting of the BBar Ranch, adjacent to Yellowstone Park. Session topics include examination of the conservative and progressive movements; analysis of the overarching issues important to progressives; the mechanics of acquiring and exercising political power; and the opportunities for progressive action and achievement in Montana.

Program instructors, recruited statewide and nationally, offer top-quality experience and expertise. They have included Montana Senator Christine Kaufmann, former U.S. Representative Pat Williams (pictured above), former Public Service Commissioner Ken Toole, Sierra Club National Director of Conservation Greg Haegele, and other accomplished leaders from electoral, administrative, research and media arenas.

Since its inception in 2005, more than 100 progressive leaders have taken part in the Leadership Seminar Series. This year, the program includes 25 more individuals, with participant selection made to reflect diversity in geographical residence, issue background, gender and race.

If you are interested in applying to participate in the Leadership Seminar Series, please contact Molly Severtson.

Dates of the 2013 Leadership Seminar Series

A Short Video About the Program

Leadership Seminar Series Class of 2012

The Conveners of the Leadership Seminar Series

Keynote Speakers from Past Seminars

Presenters from Past Seminars

What It Means to Be "A Progressive" Quotes from Participants' Essays

The Alumni of the Leadership Seminar Series

Leadership Seminar Series Photos on Flickr

Materials from Past Sessions