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Maria Whelan Leadership Institute
Early Childhood Emerging Leaders Fellowship
Building the next generation of Illinois’ early childhood leaders and advocates.
Empowering professionals to be Illinois’ early childhood leaders and advocates.
We believe that every early childhood professional has the potential to be a leader and advocate for positive change. The Maria Whelan Leadership Institute (MWLI) serves as a catalyst for transformation, offering comprehensive programs designed to cultivate the skills, knowledge, and mindset necessary to make a lasting impact in the field of early childhood education.
The Early Childhood Emerging Leaders Fellowship engages mid-level professionals from various backgrounds across the early education field. The program develops their leadership, advocacy, and systems change skills, along with their knowledge of the state’s early childhood landscape.
Become A Fellow
Are you interested in becoming an early childhood leader and advocate in your community? We are seeking applicants from across the field for the 2025-26 Early Childhood Emerging Leaders Fellowship.
Become a part of our vibrant community of emerging leaders in early childhood education and care.
About the Fellowship
The MWLI Emerging Leaders Fellowship is tailored for mid-level professionals in early childhood education and care (ECEC) who aspire to enhance their leadership skills both professionally and civically.
Throughout this nine-month fellowship, you will join a cohort of 20 fellows from across the state of Illinois. Our program offers monthly facilitated sessions by experts focusing on leadership development, professional skills, advocacy, and systems change. Annually, we actively seek equity-minded applicants from diverse backgrounds and communities for our cohorts. All fellows receive a stipend for their participation in the fellowship program.
Meet The Emerging Leaders
Our Emerging Leaders Fellows are advocates, educators, and changemakers committed to driving meaningful change for children and families across Illinois. Each fellow brings a unique perspective, rooted in lived experiences and professional expertise. Get to know the extraordinary individuals in this year’s cohort, learn about their journeys, and see how they are shaping the future of early childhood education.
Have Questions? Get Answers!
For more information about the Emerging Leaders Fellowship, contact:
Jacqueline Melendez
Director of Workforce Development
VIA EMAIL
melendezj@actforchildren.org
