"GTL is a transformative experience unlike any other learning opportunity I've had in my life!  You will be amazed by the treasures, both people and organizations, that exist in our beautiful community."  - Julie Evans 

greater Tucson Leadership

Developing Leaders  -  Strengthening Community  -  Engaging Programs

Since 1980, Greater Tucson Leadership (GTL) has been where Tucson's changemakers get their start. We recognize, develop, and engage driven leaders to be catalysts for change - through immersive programs grounded in nationally recognized leadership curriculum and the Gallup CliftonStrengths Assessment. From high school students discovering their strengths to professionals stepping into public office, more than 1,500 GTL alumni are leading in every corner of Southern Arizona - in boardrooms, classrooms, nonprofits, and City Hall. Your leadership journey starts here.

Why GTL? Connect. Learn. Lead.

Connect - Every GTL experience is built on relationship: with your cohort, with respected community leaders and speakers, with our alumni network, and with the GTL team that walks alongside you. You won't just meet Tucson's leaders - you'll join them.
Learn - Our locally tailored, strengths-based training goes where no classroom can: behind the scenes of the institutions, industries, and issues shaping our region. Curated learning experiences from diverse expert perspectives - delivered with the organizational excellence and hospitality GTL is known for - create an open, inclusive space where even the difficult conversations move us forward.
Lead - You'll leave with a deeper understanding of yourself, your strengths, and your community - and the confidence to lead with purpose in exactly the right spaces to create the change you want to see.

Our Programs

Lead Tucson Our Flagship Program


Tucson's premier leadership experience since 1980, Lead Tucson is a ten-month immersive program connecting emerging and established leaders with the issues shaping our region. Join more than 1,500 alumni who've turned monthly Issue Days into lifelong impact.

Civic and Political Leadership Academy


This six-month, nonpartisan academy gives future public servants a comprehensive understanding of local government, campaign strategy, and civic leadership. Whether you aspire to run for office or lead change from where you are, CPLA opens the doors.

Tucson Youth Leadership Academy


TYLA is a completely free leadership and career-readiness program for Title I high school students, built in partnership with the Pima County School Superintendent's Office. Students discover their strengths, explore careers, and complete real-world job shadowing with Tucson professionals.  

Leader of the month

Greater Tucson Leadership’s Leader of the Month (LOTM) initiative is in its 4th year of recognizing community members who make a positive impact. Whether they’ve inspired others, led a project, or quietly made a difference, anyone can be nominated—and anyone can win! It’s quick and easy to submit, and honorees are revealed monthly with a special surprise and celebrated at our annual Community Impact Awards. Let's celebrate those who are positively impacting our community. Nominate your favorite Leader today! https://forms.gle/G1xS7RB7X5iXVD4dA  

Since 2022, LOTM has shined a light on the leaders who make Tucson stronger. Nominations are open to all community members and are due by the last day of each month. Submit your nomination today and help us celebrate the people shaping our community’s future!

Special thanks to our 2025 LOTM sponsors: BNI SoZona, the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, and Malama ia Floral Design. Nominate now: https://forms.gle/G1xS7RB7X5iXVD4dA

.

Greater Tucson Leadership (GTL) is more than just an organization; it catalyzes community transformation. Our comprehensive programs and events are designed to develop future leaders, foster community engagement, and drive positive change. Become a sponsor today!
CLICK HERE for sponsor opportunities