JLD Leadership Institute

The JLD Leadership Institute is a premier leadership training program housed under the Training VP and led by the JLD Leadership Institute Committee. This intensive, yearlong development experience is open to both Active and Sustaining members of the Junior League of Dallas.

About the Program
Originally launched in 2008 as the T. Boone Pickens Leadership Institute through a generous and visionary gift from T. Boone Pickens, the program was rebranded in 2024 as the JLD Leadership Institute. Since its inception, more than 300 members have graduated from the Institute, strengthening the League’s reputation as a leading organization for women’s leadership development.

Each year, a select group of members participates in a 10-month course focused on strengths-based development, strategic leadership, and community impact. Graduates leave the program inspired to lead with purpose and equipped with the skills to drive meaningful change in Dallas and beyond.

We are grateful for the lasting legacy of T. Boone Pickens and his commitment to developing women leaders in our community.

 

T. Boone Pickens Visionary Award
In recognition of his extraordinary support, the T. Boone Pickens Visionary Award was established to honor his vision and belief in the leadership potential of our members.

Each year, this award is presented to a distinguished alumna of the JLD Leadership Institute—either an Active or Sustaining member—who exemplifies visionary leadership and community impact. The honoree is invited to speak at the Leadership Institute graduation, where the award is presented. A public announcement and press release follow to celebrate the recipient and graduating class.

This award serves as an ongoing tribute to Mr. Pickens’ legacy and the transformative power of investing in women leaders.

 

JLD is proud to announce that Lee Gleiser was selected and recognized for the inaugural T. Boone Pickens Visionary Award at this year’s Leadership Institute Graduation. Lee shared: “As a part of the very first class of what was then the T. Boone Pickens Leadership Institute, I learned from fantastic speakers and fellow classmates which gave me a much deeper understanding of my community, its needs, and leadership skills. My experiences at the Leadership Institute have helped make me a strong educator and, most importantly, a strong presenter. Personally, the most important thing I gained from the institute is confidence. I was made to feel so successful and capable and accomplished.

The 2026-2027 applications will be open from April 1st – April 30th at 10pm.
Please click here for the application.

Timeline and Fees

Applications for 2026-2027 year will be available from April 1st – April 30th. The JLD Leadership Institute will be selected and confirmed by mid-June. The fee is $375 per person*.

*Scholarships are available.  If needed, please indicate on your application. Your need for a scholarship will not factor into whether you are accepted into the program.

Program Requirements

To be eligible you must have completed 3 years of active service. These do not have to be consecutive, and they do not have to be in the Dallas League. You can be an Active or Sustaining member.

To be eligible you must be in good standing and current on all your dues.

No placement or meeting credit will be given for Leadership Institute participation. Participants agree to fulfill the obligations in addition to their normal meeting requirements, placement requirements and dues.

Alumnae Program

After graduating from the Leadership Institute program, you are always invited to participate in future classes. Once the slate for the current year is selected, the JLD LI Alumnae Chair will provide information on how to register to attend classes. Note that spots will be limited. The Alumnae Chair will also work to coordinate other connection activities such as breakfast, book club meetings, dinner and community service projects.

For more information on alumnae events please contact [email protected]

Calling all Leadership Institute Alumnae: We are seeking your reflections regarding your Leadership Institute experience. Please share your thoughts here.

 

 

 

TBPLI Graduates Create Ripple Effect for Change

alumnae survey conducted in 2019

  • 63%
    advanced their career from promotions to new jobs, with opportunities in a wide range of industries
  • 30%
    held an elected or appointed position, many in a community organization or professional organization
  • 51%
    held leadership positions in professional associations
  • 37%
    served on the board of a nonprofit or for-profit organization
  • 24%
    started their own business
  • 10%
    employ others through the business the graduates started
  • 20%
    received honors or awards in the workplace and/or the community
  • 71%
    served on Leadership Council, which implements programs and policies of JLD

Introducing the 2025–2026 Junior League of Dallas Leadership Institute Class

We are proud to announce this year’s Leadership Institute Class, a group of outstanding women dedicated to leading with impact. Through mentorship, training, and service, they will gain skills that strengthen our League and our community.

Veronica Averhart Preston
Sophia Beausoleil
Jessica Berend
Michele Bilafer
Petra Bradshaw
Simone Burnett Mkanganwi
Rachel Chewakin
Sarah Douglas
Ann Dragovits
Jessica Eller
Christina Gigliotti
Sarah Hantak
Denetria Hart
Lexi Holt
Kendall Ingram
Megan Jackson
Asha Jenkins
Katelyn Kuenzer
Courtney Lewis
Uche Mba
Alison O’Halloran
Olivia Phillips
Alicia Rahman
Samantha Sadden
Alexandria Smith
Sydney Sutherland
Catherine Terilli
Veronica Wallace
Tay Whatley
Robin J. Williams

Contact

Please contact [email protected] with any questions.