About the Institute 

The Leadership Institute is designed to enhance the leadership skills and foster the professional growth of emerging leaders within Chicago’s legal community. Get the practical knowledge and business development strategies necessary to attain and be successful in significant leadership roles. Sessions feature dynamic faculty, interactive skill building exercises and networking opportunities. Applicants must be licensed Illinois attorneys in good standing with the Illinois bar who have practiced between 3-10 years.

How to Apply

Click here to download the 2026 program application. The application deadline is August 21, 2026. Questions about the program and completed applications can be submitted to Jennifer Byrne at [email protected].

2026 Leadership Institute Agenda

September 2026 program dates coming soon!

Session I: Leading from Within
Self-Awareness as the Foundation of Effective Leadership

Session II: Leading with Impact
Personal Brand, Emotional Intelligence & Leadership Agility

Session III: Leading Through Challenge
Inclusive Strategies for Engaged, High-Performing Teams

Session IV: Leading for Growth
Strategic Business Development for Emerging Leaders
 
Leadership Institute Graduation Reception

Faculty Members

Dr. Nakia Hall, Leadership Development Facilitator, Next Level Core Solutions 
Tasneem Khokha, Managing Director, GrowthPlay 
John Mitchell, Lawyer, Leader and Owner of KM Advisors 
David Susler, National Material, L.P.
Dr. Brent Turner, Director, Leadership Development, Employment Boost

"The CBA Leadership Institute was a fantastic experience that brought me out of my comfort zone while teaching practical skills that I was able to use in my practice and with my colleagues the next day. The hard-skill development paired with the connections developed with my cohort made the entire experience invaluable and extremely beneficial."

-- Max Novak, McGuire Woods LLP, 2023 Leadership Institute Class 



"The Leadership Institute allowed me an opportunity to step back and reevaluate myself and various aspects of managing teamwork, conflict, and leadership.  Participating in the course at this stage in my career was invaluable because I had the relevant context to apply the tools that we are being provided and to network with peers at similar stages in their careers." 

--Tanvi Patel, Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP, 2018 Leadership Institute Class

Past Participant Firms