Virtual Kick-off: February 18, 2026
12:00pm - 3:00pm ET

In-Person Closing Event: June 4 & 5, 2026
Apply No Later Than February 16, 2026

If you are interested in participating or would like to participate as a mentor, apply today!

Overview:

The Primary Care Association (PCA) and Health Center Controlled Network (HCCN) New Leaders Development Program (NLD) is designed to provide interactive and action-oriented learning and engagement opportunities for new and emerging PCA and HCCN leaders.

This six-month module-based program incorporates core competency development with peer networking and mentoring to create a multi-faceted approach to learning and growing as a leader in their respective network or association. 

Expanding on hybrid program, this NLD will incorporate both in-person and live virtual components across a six-month program.

NACHC aligns with our Strategic Framework, and strives to position health centers, PCAs and HCCNs to become the nation’s employers, providers, and partners of choice—for all.

Within this framework, Science, Education, Policy, and Practice (SEPP) are areas that interconnect and encompass the wide range of services provided by NACHC’s organizational function areas.

Program Goals and Objectives:

• Develop Crucial Working Relationships

  • Build strong connections with NACHC staff, HRSA representatives, and PCA/HCCN peers.
  • Foster collaboration and trust across networks.

• Enhance Communication and Engagement

  • Apply advanced techniques to improve staff, board, and member engagement.
  • Strengthen internal and external communication strategies.

•  Validate and Apply Core Leadership Competencies

  • Cultivate strategic leadership skills essential for success in PCA/HCCN roles.
  • Support professional growth through mentoring, peer learning, and practical application.

Target Audience:

New and aspiring PCA or HCCN leaders. Participants do not need to be a member of the c-suite but should have general knowledge of a PCA and HCCN as we will not focus on the foundational differences. Applicants who are not the CEO/Executive Director will need a statement of support from their supervisor to participate.

Mentors:

A minimum of 5 years in a c-suite/leadership role at a PCA or HCCN (does not need to be a CEO). Seasoned and legacy leaders who would like an opportunity to share their experiences in the movement to shape and guide the future leaders who will eventually fill their shoes.

What to Expect:

Core Competency Development: Advance knowledge and skill through monthly virtual core content modules, inclusive of pre-work, live engagement with module faculty, and implementation activities.

Online Community: The hub of the program, this online community houses all learning materials and provides a safe space for peer discussion and resource sharing.

Mentor Groups: While the development model allows for intensive peer networking and sharing, the embedded cohort-specific small group mentoring provides participants a direct connection to senior leaders in the field for small group discussion and engagement. Learn from their career experiences and their legacy of excellence in leadership of the health center movement.

Virtual Engagement: The online community, ½ day virtual Kick-off on February 18, 2026, 2026, monthly live virtual sessions, and group mentor meetings will take place virtually via Zoom, February 2026 – May 2026.

In-Person Closing: June 2026, in the Bethesda, MD and Washington, DC Area. Join together in-person to celebrate our 6-month journey together, action plan for the future, and participate in both NACHC and HRSA development and alignment sessions.

Certificate of Completion: Demonstrate your commitment to personal growth and your commitment to excellence for your organization by completing all requirements to earn a certificate of completion.
The following requirements must be met to earn a Certificate of Completion:

• Share key takeaways and reflections within the online community after each module to demonstrate attendance and/or review of session recording (if unable to attend the live).
• Attend and actively participate in each monthly session unless an excused absence is approved.
• Participate in both the in-person Kick-off and Closing sessions.

Requirements of Participation:

• This program is designed to be a comprehensive experience, with attendance at the Kick-off and Closing sessions required.
• All virtual sessions will be recorded (breakout discussion may not be recorded) so that if you have a conflict with a scheduled content module, you can review the recording as needed.
• This is NOT a drop-in program where you can selectively choose which components you intend to participate in.
• By applying for participation, you are agreeing to be an active participant in all components of the Institute. See the tentative “At A Glance” in the brochure for course schedule and anticipated monthly time commitment required for the program.

Cost:

• $300 Early Bird Registration Rate: No longer available
• $500 Regular Registration Rate: January 10, 2026 – February 16, 2026

  • Participants are responsible for their own travel costs to attend the in-person session
  • PCA/HCCN leaders who serve as a mentor and/or faculty will be offered a small honorarium for offering their time and expertise to the program’s success.

Registration Process

An application is required to participate in the PCA/HCCN New Leaders Development. Beginning December 15th , a link for formal registration and payment will be sent to applicants upon acceptance into the program.

APPLY: Click here and complete the online form. Applications will be reviewed by program staff, and you will be notified of the status of your application within the following week of submission.

• Upon notification of acceptance, participants will be required to submit payment through NACHC’s formal registration system.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the course is full (approximately 35 participants) or until February 16, 2026. A waiting list will be developed once the course has reached capacity. Wait listed applicants will be given priority to fill a cancellation spot.

See below for a full course agenda and the application template. Please review all program and registration details before applying.

For more information, contact the PCA HCCN Relations program team:

Libby Thurman, Vice President, PCA HCCN Relations, NACHC

Andy Gulati, Deputy Director, PCA HCCN Relations, NACHC

Stephanie Ugwuliri, Specialist, PCA HCCN Relations, NACHC