An aerial view of College Hall on the Gonzaga campus, where the Certificate for Foundation Leadership meets.

Certificate in Foundational Leadership

Accelerate your effectiveness as a leader

The Certificate in Foundational Leadership (CFL) is a 9-month individual leadership program designed to accelerate your leadership skills through practical learning, mentorship and assessments. In a small cohort of people from a variety of industries and fields, you'll develop new techniques and knowledge to refresh and enhance how you lead individuals and teams. Take a look at why so many CFL graduates refer to the program as "transformational"...

What you'll learn

  • Increase your self-awareness of your leadership strengths and development areas.
  • Develop strategies to lead and influence teams, particularly through change.
  • Enhance your ability to work effectively with people of diverse identities, personalities and abilities.
  • Improve your interpersonal communication skills, particularly in high-stakes situations.
  • Cultivate professional relationships through networking and mentorship.
 
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“The program helped refine many of the leadership tools that I had and gave me a framework that allowed me to share those with other professionals developing as young leaders.” Steve Lee (’13) Director of Information Technology, Integrus Architecture

Concrete steps, transformative results

  • Enjoy both flexibility and connection with others through a combination of in-person and Zoom classes.
  • Deepen your self-awareness and growth through highly personalized assessments.
  • Complete practical assignments to apply new knowledge and skills directly to your life.
  • Learn from a variety of engaging, seasoned leaders in their professions.
  • Match with an experienced leader who'll serve as your mentor throughout the program.
A speaker meets with students in the Certificate for Foundational Leadership program.

Details

  • Cost: $8,900
  • Payment Options: Payment plans, discounts, and scholarships available
  • Duration: 9 months (September - May)
  • Credits: 15 CE credits, transferable as 3 graduate credits to select master's programs
  • Format: Combination of in-person and live, interactive Zoom classes. Includes assessments with certified practitioners, a two-day retreat and on-campus cohort meetings.
  • Time Commitment: Students tell us they spend 8-10 hours per month, in addition to in-person & virtual sessions. 
  • Instructor: Jill Yashinsky-Wortman, MA, CPCC, PCC
Program Details
View Program Schedule

Testimonials

Headshot of Jacqui Gordon

Jacqui Gordon

Director of Training, Education and Member Services, Washington State Tree Fruit Association

"The CFL has been a transformational experience, both in my personal and professional life. This course also helped me switch my mindset from judgement to curiosity, which has been instrumental for growing my empathy and self-compassion skills, and to having more courageous conversations without the need to turn them into a confrontation. I would recommend this certificate to anyone who is interested in improving their leadership skills and experience a transformation from inside out."

Headshot of Austin Dannen

Austin Dannen

Executive Director, Peak7

"Leadership lessons can often feel abstract, but CFL offered concrete tools that I could immediately implement in my role... I learned to identify the right questions, address root issues, and understand the importance of creating a capable team rather than trying to solve every problem myself. I believe investing in yourself is one of the most valuable investments you can make. For anyone considering the program, I can say with confidence that this leadership course provided the best return on investment I’ve seen. If you’re ready to develop as a leader, CFL will give you practical skills and a strong foundation to build upon."

A headshot of Moya.

Moya Shatz Dolby

Executive Director, Idaho Wine Commission

“I can't speak highly enough about the Certificate in Foundational Leadership. It made me think more deeply about various topics, and the personal assessments were really eye-opening. I made great friends and enjoyed getting to know the people in my cohort. I encourage anyone who has a growth mindset and wants to continue to better themselves to take this program.”