Nomination Guidance
You know a community leader who would benefit from an ALF Class — now what?
Nominating someone for ALF is more than submitting a name. It is an invitation, a commitment,
and an opportunity to walk alongside a leader as they consider whether this experience is the
right next step in their leadership journey.
1. Stay engaged with your nominee
Nominating someone for ALF is a process, not a single event. Be prepared to support your nominee
through the selection process. It may take more than one round, and your encouragement can make a
meaningful difference.
2. Help set the right expectations
Each ALF class is unique. No class will be exactly like yours. The value of the experience is shaped
by what each person brings to it — their honesty, curiosity, effort, and willingness to build trust
with others.
3. Understand how classes are built
ALF classes are intentionally balanced and diverse. The application pool changes each year and is
influenced by many factors. Because of this, applicants from over-represented sectors may not be
selected the first year they are in the pool.
4. Look for leaders ready to build across difference
ALF looks for people who are already leading in their sector and who are committed to building
partnerships that strengthen our community. Successful applicants demonstrate leadership ability
and are ready to deepen their relationships, expand their networks, and grow alongside others.
5. Talk openly about the financial commitment
A high-quality leadership program is costly. The current cost is $12,000 per person.
Scholarships are limited, with the average scholarship approximately $2,000.
Everyone selected for the program is expected to make a minimum personal contribution of
$1,500.
Nominees should also be prepared to seek support from employers, family, personal sponsors, or other
funding partners to cover the remaining cost.
6. Support strong application materials
The Selection Committee reviews three application documents: the nomination form, the candidate’s
responses to the nomination questions, and a resume. Take time with your nominee to make sure the
materials are thoughtful, complete, and reflective of their leadership story.
Not selected this year?
Reach out to your nominee. Disappointment is natural, and some candidates may feel overlooked or
unappreciated. It can help to remind them that ALF is building a balanced class from a large and
diverse South Sound leadership community, with only 24–26 seats available each year.
Encourage them to stay connected through public ALF events, continue demonstrating leadership in
their sector, and update their application as needed. Candidates remain in the pool for three years.
Selected?
Celebrate with them. Excitement and nervousness often show up together. Help your nominee keep
expectations grounded — their experience will not be exactly like yours, and that is part of the value.
Check in throughout the class year, introduce them to other Senior Fellows, and help them continue
broadening their leadership network.