Transit Citizen Leadership Academy Application

TCLA is a cohort-based leadership program designed to equip regional leaders with a deeper understanding of growth, mobility, and access across Middle Tennessee.

Participants engage with experts, explore real-world challenges, and join a network shaping the region’s future.

Applications are due by June 25, 2026, and acceptance letters are emailed out in early July. Please be sure that your schedule allows you full participation. Space is limited.

First name

Last name

Email

Phone

Company/Organization

Title

County of employment

County of residence

Community & Leadership Engagement

Where and how are you currently engaged in Middle Tennessee? (Boards, commissions, civic groups, associations)

Perspective & Motivation

Why do you want to participate in TCLA? What will you gain or contribute?

What challenges or opportunities related to growth, access, or mobility are most relevant to your work or community? (3-4 sentences)

How, if at all, do you see your own transportation or mobility choices evolving as a result of participating in TCLA? (1–2 sentences)

Regional Influence & Areas of Impact

How do you see yourself leading or influencing change in your organization or community as a result of participating in TCLA?

In one sentence: What does a successful Middle Tennessee look like to you?

Program Awareness

If someone recommended you participate in this TCLA, please share their name.

Share Your Experience & Perspective

Which of the following transportation services or systems are you familiar with? (Check all that apply)

How would you describe your current level of engagement with transportation and mobility issues in Middle Tennessee?

I am not currently engaged at all.

I occasionally follow the issue (news/updates)

I am professionally or civically engaged

I actively influence or make decisions

Which areas are most impacted by transportation barriers in your community? (Select up to 3)

Please share an example, if applicable. (optional)

Employer Support

Will your employer be sponsoring your participation?

Yes

No

Not Sure (I need more information)

Participation & Commitment

TCLA is a 9-week, in-person leadership program. Are you able to commit to attending all sessions?

Yes

Mostly (Please explain below)

Unsure (Please explain beow)

If you answered "Mostly" or "Unsure" above, please explain here.

Accessibility & Participation Support

Are there any barriers that might impact your participation?

Professional Bio & Materials

Please share a brief bio

Max 500 characters

Upload a quality headshot

Program Selection

TCLA dates you are applying to:

TCLA 28 | August 11, 2026-October 7, 2026

CLASS TIMES: 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM

DATES

8/11 Session 1 → Cohort + stakes
8/19 Session 2 → Funding Power
8/26 Session 3 → Governance in Action
9/2 Session 4 → System Today
9/9 Session 5 → Field experience
9/16 Session 6 → Plans + implementation
9/23 Session 7 → Challenges
9/30 Session 8 → Tools
10/7 Session 9 → Presentations + Graduation

Tuition & Expectations

TCLA Tuition: $1,250

Full or 50% payment is required (Payable by participant or company sponsor) before full program admission.

Many participants are sponsored by their employer or organization.

Participants attend nine class sessions. Each session includes expert presentations, food/hospitality, validated parking (if they use cars), paid field experiences on public transit assets, and any other support material to meet class objectives.

I understand the tuition, travel, and participation expectations.

I understand that attendance is critical, and space is limited.

I understand I am responsible for transportation to/from the session.

Should you have medical or physical conditions that the Transit Alliance should be aware of to ensure your safe participation in programming activities (walking, standing, stairs, loading/unloading bus, outdoor activities/environments, etc.), please contact Jessica Dauphin jessica.dauphin@thetransitalliance.org.