TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Leadership Collective (NJLC), the premier leadership development training academy for progressive changemakers in New Jersey, is proud to announce that applications are now open for its Class of 2026 cohort.

NJLC prepares rising progressive leaders through a six-month long academy that includes intensive skill-building, mentorship, and networking. Its alumni have gone on to serve in elected office, hold appointments in state, county, and local government, and lead campaigns and nonprofit organizations.

Applications are available at www.newjerseyleaders.org and are due by October 15, 2025.

To help prospective applicants learn more, NJLC will host a series of informational meet-ups across the state:

·        Wednesday, September 17, 6 p.m. – Pino’s Gift Basket Shoppe and Wine Cellar, Highland Park

·        Thursday, September 25, 6 p.m. – The Brightside Tavern, Jersey City

·        Thursday, October 2, 6 p.m. – The Victor Pub, Camden

·        Monday, October 6, 5 p.m. – The Lobby Club, Trenton

·        Tuesday, October 14, 7 p.m. – Virtual

These events are open to prospective applicants, alumni, and supporters.

“Our alumni consistently describe this as a life-changing experience,” said Mayrose Wegmann, NJLC President. “Fellows come to the program to learn and leave with a whole new community of support and a deep understanding of how to make progressive change.”

“This program brings together the brightest minds in the Garden State to drive progress by building community through collective power,” added Rob Matos-Moran, Vice President of NJLC. “As we open applications for the 2026 Class of Fellows, we encourage individuals to join us at one of our upcoming events to learn more!”

NJLC’s Founding Board of Directors includes:

·        Mayrose Wegmann

·        Rob Matos-Moran

·        Jose Calves

·        Intashan Chowdhury

·        Anthony Covington

·        Erik Cruz Morales

·        Ruth Delgado

·        Madelaine (Laine) Hicks

·        Fatima Heyward

·        Viri Martinez

·        Medinah Muhammad

·        Victoria Pacheco

New Jersey Leadership Collective (formerly NLC-NJ) is New Jersey’s leading training program for the next generation of progressive leaders. Founded in 2011 by Justin Braz, Partner at MAD Global, and Jackie Cornell, Human Services Deputy Director for Mercer County, NJLC equips fellows with the skills to run for office, manage campaigns, and build lasting networks. Its alumni network includes more than 300 changemakers across the state.

Learn more at www.newjerseyleaders.org