American Express Leadership Academy: Celebrating 2025 and Looking Ahead to 2026

This November, non-profit leaders from across the Americas will gather in New York City for the 2025 American Express Leadership Academy – an immersive week of workshops, leadership conversations, and cross-sector networking. The Americas Academy is the final of three global programs this year and will bring together 80 outstanding leaders selected for their commitment to purpose, leadership potential, and readiness to grow. 

“This cohort represents the breadth and brilliance of the non-profit sector in the Americas,” said Madge Thomas, President of the American Express Foundation. “By bringing these leaders together, we are strengthening individual leadership, creating connections that spark innovation, and building the fabric of the non-profit sector and the communities they serve.” 

“The Americas are home to extraordinary leaders already driving change in their communities,” said Adirupa Sengupta, Global Chief Executive of Common Purpose. “The Academy will give them the platform, tools, and networks to amplify that impact. Through sharing their stories, drawing inspiration from each other and the broader leadership community, and practicing leading beyond authority, they can inspire action and mobilize resources on a far greater scale.” 

Since its inception, the American Express Leadership Academy has invested more than $100 million in developing non-profit leaders. The program fosters cross-sector collaboration, offering local leaders access to global perspectives from a wide range of industries, including sports, fashion, entertainment, business, and more.  More than 165,000 graduates worldwide have completed the Academy, helping to create solutions and build stronger communities around the world. 

Looking Ahead: Applications Now Open for the 2026 Academy 

While we celebrate the achievements of the 2025 program, we’re thrilled to announce our renewed commitment to leadership development with the launch of our 2026 Academies. The six-month programs will equip non-profit leaders with the skills, networks, and resilience to deliver lasting change, combining virtual learning with in-person convenings around the globe. 

In 2026, the Academy will convene in: 

New York City, Americas cohort – March 17-20, 2026  

London, EMEA cohort – June 23-26, 2026 

APAC cohort will convene later in the year, more details to come. 

Applications are now open for the 2026 American Express Leadership Academy.  

For more information and to apply, please visit here.