Elliot L. Richardson Leadership Lab 2026

Overview

Hosted by the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA), the Elliot L. Richardson Leadership Lab is an exclusive, invitation-only event designed to expose emerging public service leaders to accomplished scholars, practitioners, and public servants. The lab combines leadership development, interactive exercises, real-world scenarios, mentorship, and professional networking. The 2026 event takes place on November 8, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C. Additionally, selected participants are invited to remain for NAPA's full National Conference running from November 8–10, 2026, at no extra cost.

Benefits

• Travel and accommodations covered by the Academy.
• Complimentary participation in the full NAPA National Conference from November 8–10, 2026.
• Direct engagement with senior scholars, practitioners, and public servants through interactive roundtables and a Signature Leadership Conversation.
• Networking opportunities with a select cohort of emerging leaders and the wider NAPA community.

Eligibility

Open to undergraduate and graduate students.
Candidates must demonstrate exceptional leadership potential and a serious interest in public service, government, public administration, civic engagement, and community impact.
Participation is strictly by institutional nomination; students cannot submit individual self-applications.

How to Apply

Students must approach their college, university, or appropriate academic department early to request an institutional nomination. Nominations must be submitted by the candidate's institution through the official channels provided by NAPA.

Deadline

The nomination deadline is September 25, 2026.