Leadership Programs

Leadership Programs

Where emerging leaders step into purpose

In a world that demands so much of those who step up to lead, our Leadership Programs offer not just inspiration, but essential support to ensure that expertise and momentum are not lost—but amplified. Our Leadership Programs are designed to help changemakers build the skills, resilience, and connections needed to address the most complex challenges of our time—whether in conservation, public health, or any other critical field.

Our Leadership Programs

Active Programs

COMPASS mCDR Communication Leaders

Nomination period open through July 13!

COMPASS mCDR Communication Leaders is a new initiative designed to support a cohort of mCDR experts who want to engage more deeply with policymakers, funders, the media, and communities about mCDR’s potential, complexity, and tradeoffs. Participants will build their communication skills, learn from guest experts across key public sectors, and find support in a peer network focused on responsible, ethical engagement.

Learn more about COMPASS mCDR Communication Leaders

COMPASS Pathfinder: Leaders in Conservation

Cohort selection announced!

This 8-month program supports conservation experts from across North America to navigate their journey with renewed clarity, energy, and purpose. Participants in the program will develop essential skills to build effective strategies, strengthen resilience, and foster trust and collaboration with others who share a commitment to the well-being of people and nature — both within and beyond the conservation field.

Learn more about COMPASS Pathfinders

Changing Food Systems: Communicating Negative Impacts of Industrial Animal Agriculture

Cohort selection in progress!

This program is desgined for researchers in the field of industrial animal farming in developing countries. Through 1:1 virtual coaching and group programming, they will develop a customized plan to grow their communication skills and forge a path for strategic, enduring change in this emerging field.

Learn more about Changing Food Systems

Past Programs

Scientist Sentinels

This 9-month program brought together diverse scientists in the United States to advance the role of science in society, inspire their peers, and support evidence-based decision making at the local level and beyond. 

Learn more about Scientist Sentinels

Wilburforce Leaders in Conservation Science

This program was designed to support conservation scientists to who work to advance equitable, inclusive, and just solutions to the challenges that people, lands, and wildlife in the rapidly changing west. 

Learn more about Wilburforce Leaders

Leaders for Sea Change Program

This year-long program was designed to build a strong network of scientist leaders who work on the most urgent crises affecting our oceans, from ecologists working with First Nations in British Columbia to human geographers working with fishing cooperatives in Baja.

Learn more about Leaders for Sea Change

When I joined the program, I wasn’t sure if I would stay in the conservation realm at all – even though I cared very deeply about the work that I was doing. I was so burnt out, and I felt really alone. Because of this program, I feel like I have community, I have a conservation vision re-ignited in me, and I feel motivated once again.

~ 2023 Wilburforce Leader in Conservation Science

I feel so much more empowered now. I actually have tools at my disposal, and this awesome network of people who are interested and impassioned. That’s been the greatest gift.

~ Dr. Se Jin Song, Director of Research, Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California

The connections made at the training are ones that will help change the world. It was a humbling experience to be with such astounding individuals with such passion, drive, and kind hearts.

~ Scientist Sentinel 

Program Outcomes

Our programs can be adapted to a range of focus areas, from ocean conservation to industrial animal agriculture and more. What unites and sets our programs apart is the focus on clarity of purpose and community. By creating a collaborative network, participants can grow together forming lasting connections that extend long after the program ends. These relationships, combined with renewed personal insight and purpose, support participants to sustain their work, expand their impact, and lead transformative change in their communities and beyond.

Resilience & Purpose
Our programs go beyond skill-building. We help participants develop confidence, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose, preparing them to face challenges and embrace new opportunities with intention and authenticity. Our programs support participants to grow in the following areas:

Strategic Mindsets and Resources
Participants gain hands-on training that addresses the unique challenges they face in their field. From framing complex issues to navigating tough conversations, they leave with actionable skills to create meaningful change.

A Lifelong Network
Participants become part of a vibrant, supportive network of peers—people who share their passion for making a difference and who offer ongoing accountability, encouragement, and opportunities for collaboration. This community is a powerful resource for growth and impact as they continue their work in the world.

Sponsor a Leadership Program

Looking to empower changemakers working in a specific field or topic area? Let’s collaborate to choose a dynamic cohort and design a tailored program that helps them lead with purpose and impact. Your support will fuel their journey to creating meaningful change.

Contact Us

Often the doors for career-enhancing opportunities are closed to people who don't fit a conventional model of a scientist, but real conservation depends on tremendously diverse skill sets. COMPASS and Wilburforce opened their leadership programs up to people with a variety of skills and backgrounds, and that's what really appealed to me. It was the highlight of my year.

~ Dr. Jonaki Bhattacharyya, Researcher and Technical Consultant – Stewardship Initiatives

I have the photograph from the very first day of the training, where we were making mental maps and putting up post-its of what we wanted to do, and in that photograph I was describing the vision I had for a project for my new job. That photo captured exactly what I’ve accomplished now—the partners, the process, the vision.

~ Sergio Avila, Local Outdoors Coordinator, Sierra Club

I learned a new identity for myself, that I can be a good scientist and a good citizen at the same time.

~ Michelle del Rio, PhD Student, University of Texas

I feel like my soul and my science have come together.

~ Dr. Jonathan Moore, Liber Ero Chair of Coastal Science and Management, Simon Frasier University