Coastal Leadership institute
Become a leader in the movement to protect and restore Louisiana’s coast.
• Learn from experts about the ecological, cultural, economic and political factors impacting the coast.
• Visit the places and people on the front lines of the land loss crisis.
• Connect with like-minded individuals and help create a thriving, sustainable coast for all.
How it works
Enroll in a Cohort
Join forces with 20 to 25 aspiring coastal leaders from across Louisiana. Contribute your unique perspective and learn from peers at diverse industries and career levels.
Attend Monthly Sessions
Once a month, spend a day learning from ecological, cultural, economic and political experts. Each day includes a visit to sites and communities most impacted by land loss.*
Flex Your Skills
Leverage the tools and knowledge acquired in the program to write op-eds, deliver public comments and build connections that make positive change for Louisiana’s coast.
Session Schedule
• Virtual Orientation, August 29, 2025
• Session 1 | Baton Rouge | September 19, 2025
Ecology of the Coast, Part I: Louisiana’s Relationship to the Coast
• Session 2 | South Plaquemines Parish | October 17, 2025
Ecology of the Coast, Part II: Addressing the Problems of Louisiana’s Coast
• Session 3 | Terrebonne Parish | November 21, 2025
Coastal Cultures, Part I: Celebrating and Examining the Distinct Cultures at Risk
• Session 4 | St. Bernard Parish | December 12, 2025
Coastal Cultures, Part II: Celebrating and Examining the Distinct Cultures at Risk
• Session 5 | Lafourche Parish | January 16, 2026
Economy of the Coast, Part I: Exploring the Industries of Louisiana’s Working Coast
• Session 6 | Cameron Parish | March 20, 2026*
Economy of the Coast, Part II: Exploring the Industries of Louisiana’s Working Coast
• Session 7 | St. Mary Parish | April 17, 2026*
Policy of the Coast, Part I: Understanding the CPRA and Master Plan’s Role in Restoring and Protecting Louisiana’s Coast
• Session 8 | Louisiana State Capitol | May 15, 2026*
Policy of the Coast, Part II: Understanding the Legislative Process in Restoring and Protecting Louisiana’s Coast
• Session 9 | TBD | Summer 2026
Graduation
• Make up days to save in the event of rescheduling – February 27, 2026 & June 12, 2026
*Dates and locations of sessions 6, 7 and 8 may change to accommodate Coastal Day at the State Capitol.
Eligibility
People from across Louisiana are welcome to apply to the Coastal Leadership Institute. Nominees represent a range of ages, from early to mid-career or retired, and work in a variety of industries, such as energy, tech, healthcare, renewable energy, nonprofit, media, politics, education, faith-based, legal and others.
Tuition
The cost to participate in the Coastal Leadership Institute is $1,000. Scholarships are available for a limited number of applicants. If you would like to apply for a scholarship, please select the designated box at the bottom of the application.
Questions?
Email the program director at ethan.melancon@crcl.org.
Note: Site visits may include transportation by boat.
Corporate Sponsors
Citgo
Colonial Pipeline
Wells Fargo