Audaz Leadership Program – Class 1

Collective Responsibility: Leading Together for Greater Impact

The first class of the Audaz Leadership Program sets the foundation for the entire cohort experience. This session introduces participants to the purpose, structure, and expectations of the program while grounding them in the core principle that effective leadership is collective, not individual.

Participants will explore why today’s most impactful leaders must work across sectors, roles, and networks to create meaningful change. Through guided discussion and hands-on group activities, attendees will begin building relationships within their cohort and learn how shared responsibility strengthens leadership outcomes in business, nonprofit, and civic environments.

This session also provides a practical introduction to nonprofit engagement and fundraising as a leadership skill. Participants will learn how to identify opportunities, make strategic asks, and activate their networks with intention. Working in small groups, attendees will take on defined leadership roles—such as storyteller and advocate—to practice collaboration, accountability, and influence in real time.

By the end of the session, participants will:

• Understand the vision and structure of the Audaz Leadership Program

• Build early connections within their cohort

• Learn why collaboration is essential to modern leadership

• Gain practical tools for strategic outreach and fundraising

• Begin applying leadership roles and responsibilities within a team setting

This opening class establishes the mindset, relationships, and momentum that will carry participants through the remainder of the Audaz journey.