*If you have any questions about the class, please send an email to contact@emergeky.org*
We encourage you to begin your application well in advance of the closing date due to the detailed nature of the application.
Who Should Apply?
Emerge Kentucky seeks Democratic women from diverse backgrounds who are committed to effective political leadership and are interested and plan to run for elective office and who have:
- Evidence of political leadership experience or potential, and meaningful involvement in workplace or community;
- Plan to run for office within the next 5 years;
- Ability and desire to build effective networks;
- Ability to articulate a personal political vision;
- Commitment to full participation and attendance requirements of the trainings.
- Applicants must be women who are Democrats and who reside in the state of Kentucky.
Emerge Kentucky will select 20-25 women from across the state who meet the above criteria and who we believe have the potential to be political leaders.
Emerge embraces diversity and encourages applications from all women regardless of age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, marital status, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, socio-economic status or physical ability. Our mission to build the bench of Democratic women ready to run for office acknowledges both systemic and historic barriers to running for office as well as the barriers women impose on themselves.
To be considered for the 2025 Emerge Kentucky training program, applicants must complete a written application by December 1st. Online applications will be evaluated by a selection committee and qualified applicants will be invited to an in-person interview in November and December 2024. Invitations to join the 2025 class will be extended in January.
Time Commitment
The success of the Emerge Kentucky program depends upon commitment to the program’s entire schedule by each participant. Over the six-month period, approximately 70 program hours are scheduled. Some time outside of regularly scheduled trainings will be necessary for homework and training preparation. While emergencies sometimes arise, attendance at the first day of training is mandatory and absence for any reason will result in a deferral to the following year. Please review the schedule below to ensure your availability to attend every day labeled “Training.”
COVID Protocol
- This training is open to persons who are fully vaccinated at the time of the training. During training, we ask that you wear a mask and practice social distancing. If you are unvaccinated for any reason, or unable to mask during our training, we ask that you reach out to us and we can connect you to virtual training alternatives.
Interviews
Emerge Kentucky will review completed online applications and select finalists for in-person interviews. Finalists will be invited to attend an interview with the selection committee in November and December in Louisville and Lexington.
Class of 2025 Interview Dates and Times:
11/9/2024: Louisville interviews will take place between 9:30am-11:30am ET
12/7/2024: Lexington interviews will take place between 9:30am-11:30am ET
Application Fee
A non-refundable application fee of $35 is required and must be submitted along with a completed application. The application fee can be paid here or mail a check payable to Emerge Kentucky, P.O. Box 701262, Louisville, KY 40270.
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation are required for the application. Please identify these individuals and their emails.
Resume
Applicants will need to attach a resume to their application in the online portal.
Tuition
Tuition to the program is $1000. Financial need should not be a barrier to applying to the program. Financial assistance may be discussed after admission to the program.
The six-month program does take place in various parts of the state one Saturday each month, and travel and overnight accommodations may be necessary depending on your location to trainings. Emerge Kentucky will endeavor to assist with supporter housing when needed, but travel costs are not covered by the program.
Note: Emerge Kentucky will be following CDC and state guidelines and the training may be virtual or a combination of virtual and in person.
If financial concerns are holding you back from completing your application, please reach out to the Executive Director Blair Haydon at blairhaydon@emergeky.org.
