Frequently Asked Questions

What is IGEL? 
IGEL is an immersive leadership program that brings together professionals representing a variety of fields and perspectives from around the state to work together to find solutions to Georgia’s environmental challenges.

Who are your notable alumni? 
Hundreds of IGELians have completed the core program – including leaders from academia, industry,
government, and civic organizations. After graduation, alumni put their new skills and training to work, addressing environmental challenges, often hand-in-hand with fellow IGELians.

Our alumni network includes notable Georgians such as Jeaneanne Gettle, EPA Region 4 Acting Regional Administrator; Ryan Gravel, urban designer, author, entrepreneur and visionary behind the Atlanta Beltline; Will Harris, regenerative farmer and owner of White Oak Pastures; Doug Hooker, CEO of the Midtown Connector Park Foundation; and Hannah Palmer, author of the award-winning book Flight Path and co-creator of Finding the Flint.

Today, the organization is investing in engagement beyond the core leadership program, with tools and communications to develop more engaged communities of practice, to support Georgia’s environmental
leaders continue to work together to create a brighter future for our state.

Who should apply? 
We need proven leaders representing Georgia’s economic, racial, generational, geographic, and institutional diversity to address broad-reaching environmental issues facing our state. We seek individuals from a wide range of professions, interests, political viewpoints, and experiences so that potential solutions are collaborative and inclusive.

What can I expect from the program?
Our expert team of facilitators provides an exceptional year-long program through four multi-day sessions spread across the state. Participants gain:

• A deeper understanding of Georgia’s environmental challenges and opportunities, and a foundation of collaborative problem solving
• First-hand experience of the impact decisions have on our communities, industries and individuals
• An immersive learning experience that applies the knowledge and skills of all participants to real-life scenarios, and an opportunity to learn how other leaders have handled similar challenges, leadership skills and training that will serve you throughout your career

When is the deadline to apply?
Applications will be open through 5 pm, Friday, October 3, 2025.

I previously submitted an application. How do I get a copy of it? 
For access to a previous application or assistance with a current application, please email us.

What are the 2025 session dates?
IGEL’s core program includes four multi-day sessions that take place in different parts of the state. Each session is designed to educate participants on different environmental challenges and opportunities, with a combination of classroom discussion and hands-on, experiential learning. Attendance at each session is mandatory.

• Class of 2026 session dates:
  • Session 1: North Georgia | April 21-24, 2026
  • Session 2: Metro Atlanta | July 21-24, 2026
  • Session 3: Southwest Georgia | September 22-25, 2026
  • Session 4: Coastal Georgia | November 10-13, 202
    *Note that some engagement via virtual meetings/sessions may be incorporated into the program. 

How many participants are accepted each year? 
Please know this is a highly competitive program with only 30 participants in each class. Many applicants apply multiple times prior to being selected.

What are the 2025 tuition costs?

Tuition fee covers instruction, course materials, lodging, and meals. The tuition paid by the program participants covers approximately half of the full cost of the deployment of the program. The remaining program costs are paid through fundraising efforts by the IGEL Board and corporate sponsors.

IGEL recognizes that many strong candidates—particularly civic and community leaders—are unable to secure the full amount of tuition. There are a limited number of needs-based partial and full scholarship
opportunities to accepted applicants. These scholarships are made possible through generous corporate, foundation and individual gifts, as well as gifts from individuals throughout the IGEL Network.

When will I know if I was accepted? 
Applicants will be notified the final selections by mid-November 2025. Candidates selected for the 2026 program will also be invoiced at that time and full payment of tuition is due by December 5, 2025.

If you have additional questions, please email them to us.

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