At a Glance
APPLICATION DEADLINE
July 1, 2026
(In-person interviews: July 20-21)
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Aug. 27 – Nov. 12, 2026
11 Thursdays, excluding Nov. 5
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$400 Program Fee
Due upon acceptance by Aug. 14
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Open to Scottsdale REALTORS® Members
REALTOR® & Affiliate members welcome
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28 Graduating Classes
Hundreds are serving our community
WHAT IS IT?
It’s More Than a Program. It’s a Transformation.
Launched in 1997, the Scottsdale REALTORS® Leadership Academy is one of the most unique member programs in the state. Over 11 days, participants go behind the scenes of the city they work in every day meeting the people who run, shape and protect it.
From sitting down with city council members to touring police and fire departments, from exploring the arts scene to understanding how Scottsdale’s schools and healthcare systems work. This is a deep, hand-on education in the place you call home.
You spend your career selling. Leadership Academy gives you the knowledge and connections to truly know it.
Who Should Apply?
Any active member of Scottsdale REALTORS® who is curious about their city, eager to grow as a leader, and ready to build lasting relationships within the industry and community.
WHAT YOU’LL GAIN
Six Things That Will Change After You Graduate
Deep City Knowledge
Walk away with a genuine, behind the scenes understanding of how Scottsdale operates – from city government and planning to public safety and culture. Knowledge your clients will notice.
A Powerful Network
Build real relationships with your fellow classmates – a cohort of motivated SAAR members – plus access to influential leaders in Scottdale’s government, business, arts, and civic world.
Leadership Skills That Stick
Through intentional training, real conversations, and team challenges, you’ll develop the kind of leadership presence that elevates your business and your standing in any room.
Ways to Get Involved
Learn exactly how to plug into the association’s committees, local boards, and city initiatives. Graduates are first to know about involvement opportunities at SAAR and across Scottsdale.
Access & Experiences
Go places most people never go. Tour the facilities, meet the leaders, sit in the rooms where decisions are made – a behind the scenes experience of the city that simply isn’t available elsewhere.
Lifelong Friendships
Ask any graduate – the bonds formed over 11 Thursdays often last decades. The Leadership Academy alumni community is tight knit, supportive, and always looking to welcome the next class.
THE EXPERIENCE
Unique Learning Days
Each session is a full-day immersive experience – not a classroom lecture. You’ll be in the field, in the buildings, and in the rooms that shape Scottdale. Every Thursday brings a new lens on the city.
- Aug. 27, 2026
Orientation & Team Building Day - Sep. 3, 2026
Sustainability Day - Sep. 10, 2026
Corporation Day - Sep. 17, 2026
Sports & Tourism Day - Sep. 24, 2026
Association Day - Oct. 1, 2026
Police & Fire Day - Oct. 8, 2026
Arts & Culture Day - Oct. 15, 2026
Healthcare Day - Oct. 22, 2026
Education Day - Oct. 29, 2026
Know Your City Day - Nov. 12, 2026
Commencement & Celebration
Your Commitment
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$400 program fee
(due upon acceptance) -
Attend all 11 Days
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Remain an active association member
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Willingness to engage, connect and grow
INSIDE THE ACADEMY
Every Day Tells a Story
Travel, Sports & Leisure Day
Class 28
Orientation & Team Building Day
Class 27
Corporation Day
Class 26
Know Your City Day
Class 25
FROM THE GRADUATES
Hear From the People Who’ve Been Through It.
Every class leaves with more than they expected. Here’s what alumni say about the experience in their own words.
”What can I say about Leadership Academy? Transformative, enlightening, educational, deep friendships, and a higher level of professionalism for your practice. As a newer agent, I wasn’t sure if I would or should be in a Leadership class, but another agent and friend of mine pushed me. It was definitely the right decision and it has helped me fast-track my knowledge and skill set I provide to my clients and colleagues. Would rate it 5 out of 5 stars!!!
Jessica LonnREALTOR® | LEADERSHIP CLASS 27 GRADUATE
”Leadership Academy not only enhanced my leadership skills but also provided profound insights into our community's dynamics. I learned how our profession plays a vital role in shaping and supporting our local community. The diverse perspectives and shared experiences enriched my understanding and commitment to my career and community. This journey empowered me with the knowledge and network to make a meaningful impact.
Austin BloomREALTOR® | LEADERSHIP CLASS 26 GRADUATE
”The program provided me with valuable insights into leadership and communication. I formed lifelong friendships with many of the participants, creating a strong network of driven individuals. It put me on a path of leadership within the association and other business endeavors. I highly recommend Leadership Academy to anyone interested in enhancing their leadership abilities and connecting with fellow Realtors® and our community.
Allison CahillREALTOR® | LEADERSHIP CLASS 23 GRADUATE
OUR ALUMNI
Meet Some of the Graduates Who Came Before You.
Every class adds to a growing community of leaders who are shaping scottsdale’s future. Explore past classes below.
Class 28 · 2025
Meet the graduates >
Class 27 · 2024
Meet the graduates >
Class 26 · 2023
Meet the graduates >
Class 25 · 2022
Meet the graduates >
COMMON QUESTIONS
Everything You Need to Know Before You Apply.
When is the application deadline?
Applications for Class 29 are due by July 1, 2026. In person interviews will be held July 20-21, and accepted applicants will be notified shortly after with a program fee due date of August 14.
How often does the program meet?
Leadership Academy meets once-a-week for eleven weeks, from 8 am to 4 pm. Each day is a full day immersive experience, so you should plan to be fully available for all 11 sessions.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any active member of the Scottsdale REALTORS® association, either REALTOR® or Affiliate member, are eligible to apply. No other prerequisites are required.
What does it cost?
The program fee of $400 is due upon acceptance. This covers all materials, experiences, meals, and events associated with all 11 sessions. There are no other fees charged by the association.
Can I miss a session?
Attendance to all sessions is a requirement of the program. The experience is built on everyone being present, and each day builds on the last. This commitment is part of what makes Leadership Academy so valuable.
What happens after I graduate?
Graduates join a growing community of Leadership Academy alumni and are among the first to hear about opportunities within association committees, local boards, and civic initiatives across Scottsdale.
Ready to Lead?
Applications for Class 29 are now open. Take the step that hundreds of your
peers have taken before you and come see Scottsdale from the inside.
Application deadline July 1, 2026. Program Fee: $400 upon acceptance.
Open to all active Scottsdale REALTORS® members.