CPLA Program
About our Civic and political Leadership Academy
Welcome to the Civic and Political Leadership Academy (CPLA), a dynamic program offered by Greater Tucson Leadership. In just six months, we provide a nonpartisan, intensive experience that empowers individuals to become effective civic leaders. CPLA focuses on cultivating civic leadership and enhancing personal growth, preparing participants for active engagement in local governance and politics.
Through a tailored curriculum, we offer a comprehensive understanding of local government, political processes, campaign strategies, and the core skills required for civic leadership. You will connect with influential leaders, learn from their experiences, and develop a robust support network. Whether you aspire to run for office, work in local government, or contribute to your community, this program equips you with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to make a meaningful impact. Join us and be the change your community needs in just six transformative months.
This program was developed in 2019 in partnership with former mayor Jonathan Rothschild and the Rothschild Foundation. Since CPLA's launch in January 2020, seven alumni have been elected to office and numerous have been promoted to important community roles in Government, the Public Sector, and Government Affairs in the private sector.
Apply Now to join the 2026 Class!
Applications Close: November 23, 2025
Acceptance Notifications: by December 8, 2025
Class Begins: January 2026
Apply Here!
Click here for a list of CPLA Alumni
Class Days
Each Class Day is designed to engage participants in relevant topics related to elections, politics, and governance. Our curriculum comprises expert presentations, group discussions, and leadership development. CPLA class participants cultivate leadership competencies, including visionary thinking, responsiveness, courage, accountability, innovation, motivation, collaboration, ethics, and influential communication. The six-month program is held on the second Saturday of every month, with three virtual components throughout the course. Over the duration of the course, participants will develop and refine a three-minute elevator pitch on their area of advocacy within civic leadership. Participants learn:
Month 1: Start With Why & Political Parties
Month 2: Local Government 101
Month 3: Running a Successful Campaign & Community Involvement
Month 4: Media, Right Time to Run, & State and Local Initiatives
Month 5: Connecting with Stakeholders & The Electoral Landscape in Arizona
Month 6: Advocacy, Political and Government Positions & Graduation and Final Pitches
CPLA Speakers
Our class participants have been able to hear presentations from a number of notable local and statewide political leaders. Our goal is to connect students with a wide range of politicians, leaders within both parties, and local leaders to give them a well rounded view of what it takes to win an election and govern once elected. A selection of past speakers who have presented to our CPLA Classes.
Janet Napolitano, Former Governor of Arizona
Mike Ortega, City Manager, City of Tucson
Jan Lesher, County Administrator
Lea Marquez Peterson, Arizona Corporation Commission
Colleen Mathis, former Chair of the Independent Redistricting Commission
Russell "Rusty" Bowers, former Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives
Juan Ciscomani, U.S. representative for Arizona's 6th Congressional District
Greg Stanton, U.S. Representative for Arizona's 4th Congressional District
The Chairs of the Pima County Republican & Democratic Parties
Local School District Superintendents
Members of the Pima Community College Governing Board
Steering Committee
The CPLA class is a partnership between Greater Tucson Leadership and the Rothschild Fund for Civic Innovation. This bipartisan group works together to plan out the monthly class day and coordinate speakers form both sides of the aisle to present to the class.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
By aligning your organization with GTL and supporting its endeavors, you become part of a collective effort to improve Tucson's overall quality of life. You will get to interact with influential individuals in a unique way who play a significant role in shaping the community and leaders who are on the rise. Thank you!
Click here for CPLA Sponsorship Opportunities.
Contact GTL Development Manager, Jamie Leon-Guerrero at [email protected] or (520) 445-5059 to get signed up.
