Maria Whelan Leadership Institute

Delivering programs that uplift and strengthen Illinois’ early childhood providers and educators.

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Overview

About The Institute

The Maria Whelan Leadership Institute is designed to cultivate and empower emerging leaders in early childhood education. Named in honor of Maria Whelan, a champion for children and families, the Institute is dedicated to providing fellows with the tools, mentorship, and resources needed to lead with purpose and innovation.

Emerging Leaders Fellowship

At the Maria Whelan Leadership Institute, we believe that every early childhood professional has the potential to be a leader and advocate for positive change.

The Emerging Leaders Fellowship is a nine-month program offering comprehensive professional development, leadership training, networking opportunities, and more to early childhood professionals in Illinois. The program provides diverse, mid-level teachers and providers with the opportunity to enhance and refine their skills and become powerful advocates.

2025-26 Applications Coming Soon

Learn more about the fellowship

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Created In Honor of Maria Whelan

Illinois Action for Children created the Maria Whelan Leadership Institute (MWLI) to honor the life and legacy of its long-time leader, Maria Whelan.

Learn about Maria Whelan

Coming Soon

Meet the Fellows

Meet the incredible fellows in our Emerging Leaders fellowship.

Be A Mentor

Provide mentorship and expertise to our Emerging Leaders Fellows.

Have Questions?

For more information about the Emerging Leaders Fellowship, please contact:

Jacqueline Melendez

Director of Workforce Development

emergingleaders2024@actforchildren.org

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