Fasttrack

Overview

Leadership Memphis aims to equip and rally leaders to collaborate for the greater good of the entire community. The FastTrack Program specifically targets emerging leaders with significant potential, driven to make a positive impact in the Greater Memphis Area. Over a twelve-week duration, participants delve into challenging concepts, transformative tools, and a network of opportunities geared towards fostering positive personal and community change.

FastTrack leverages participants’ current leadership skills, enhancing their understanding of community programs, policies, and established change-makers. Through experiential learning and interaction with prominent community leaders, participants develop a robust grasp of how to amplify their influence across various sectors.

The FastTrack Program guides participants through weekly learning sessions, offering heightened exposure to influential leaders and impactful organizations. It also provides an extended network that connects participants to the current challenges Memphis faces and the prospects for the future of Memphis.

Ideal FastTrack Program participants are:

Early to mid-level professionals across various sectors, driven to enhance their community leadership skills;
Professionals who are new to the Greater Memphis Area and aspire to gain knowledge and connections within the community; and
Executives seeking a "fast track" experience to deepen their understanding of Memphis's significant historical and current assets and challenges.

Tuition for the FastTrack Program is $1,995 plus a $35 online application fee. Tuition covers all program materials, meals, and the cost of activities.

FastTrack Fall 2025 Sessions

Unless otherwise specified, all Class Days will take place in-person on Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Optional pre-class meal and networking begins at 5:30 pm.

- FastTrack Orientation: Saturday, September 20, 2025, 10:00 – 12:00 pm
- Session 1: Memphis 101 – Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Session 2: City Planning – Tuesday, September 30, 2025, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Session 3: City & County Government – Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Session 4: Community Development – Tuesday, October 21, 2025, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Session 5: Economic Development – Tuesday, October 28, 2025, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Session 6: Philanthropic Investments – Tuesday, November 4, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Session 7: Educational Equity – Tuesday, November 11, 2025, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Session 8: Health & Wellness – Tuesday, November 18, 2025, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Session 9: Arts & Culture – Tuesday, December 2, 2025, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Session 10: Community Projects – Tuesday, December 9, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Graduation/Closing Session: – Saturday, December 13, 2025, 9:00 – 11:30 am

Commitment & Expectations

As a FastTrack participant, you are joining a dynamic cohort of emerging leaders committed to personal growth and community impact. To ensure a transformative experience for all, participants are expected to uphold the following program expectations:

1. Commitment to Engagement

Attend all scheduled sessions and actively participate in discussions, workshops, and experiential learning activities.
Arrive on time and remain present for the full duration of each session.
Be prepared by completing any pre-readings, assignments, or reflections as required.

2. Leadership & Collaboration

Engage with fellow participants, guest speakers, and community leaders with professionalism and respect.
Contribute to a culture of collaboration by sharing insights, offering support, and providing constructive feedback.
Embrace diverse perspectives and be open to challenging conversations that foster personal and community growth.

3. Application of Learning

Seek opportunities to apply new knowledge, leadership tools, and strategies within personal, professional, and community settings.
Identify ways to leverage FastTrack’s network to contribute meaningfully to community initiatives and civic engagement.
Actively participate in discussions on community programs, policies, and change-makers to deepen understanding of Memphis’ landscape.

4. Accountability & Responsibility

Communicate promptly with program staff regarding any absences, emergencies, or conflicts that may affect participation.
Uphold the integrity and values of Leadership Memphis by representing the program positively in all interactions.
Commit to following through on any program-related responsibilities, including group projects or service opportunities.

5. Long-Term Engagement & Impact

Stay connected with fellow cohort members and the broader Leadership Memphis network beyond the program’s duration.
Continue seeking ways to lead and contribute to the Memphis community using the knowledge and connections gained.
Embrace the role of an active change-maker by identifying and engaging with pressing issues affecting the Greater Memphis Area.

By adhering to these expectations, participants maximize their experience in FastTrack and position themselves as leaders who will drive meaningful change in Memphis and beyond.

The average time commitment for FastTrack is approximately 40 hours, including:

Apply or Nominate a Leader for FastTrack

The FastTrack Program challenges young professionals and rising leaders to think more broadly – perhaps outside of their normal scope – and to work through complex issues related to culture, economics, community, and more.

Leadership Memphis will contact applicants regarding acceptance, next steps, and orientation by August 31st, 2025.
Tuition will be invoiced and can be paid online, over the phone, or by check mailed to Leadership Memphis.

What Participants Say

Leadership Memphis FastTrack has taught me that I can make a difference. It has taught me that ignorance is not bliss and the more you know, the better person you will be. It has taught me that it is easy to sit around and complain about the problems; however, it is totally different to figure out solutions and make them happen. It has taught me that we are a very diverse community and that learning more about that diversity only brings us all closer. Leadership Memphis FastTrack has made me a better person, a more well-rounded person.