Ohio Education Policy Leadership Program

Developing Strategic Education Leaders. Advancing Policy for Ohio’s Future.

The Ohio Education Policy Leadership Program (OEPLP) is dedicated to cultivating a dynamic and collaborative community of leaders committed to advancing education policies that put the needs of Ohioans first.

What Is OEPLP?

OEPLP is a 10-month professional fellowship that brings together mid-career professionals for an immersive learning experience focused on leadership and public policy. Through this unique program, Fellows explore education and cross-sector issues critical to their work and communities—while building skills to lead, communicate, and advocate more effectively.

Fellows will:

• Learn alongside peers from across Ohio in monthly professional development sessions
• Tackle a real-world policy project tied to their interests or organizational mission
• Build meaningful relationships in a supportive cohort model

Our Five Pillars:

• Policy
• Advocacy
• Leadership
• Communication
• Networking

Want to dive deeper into our program goals?

Who Should Apply?

OEPLP is designed for mid-career professionals who are:

• Passionate about serving children, youth, families, and communities
• Engaged in fields such as education, youth development, workforce development, public health, or human services
• Eager to grow as leaders and make a greater policy impact

Supported by their employer—or willing to commit personal resources—to participate in the program.

When Does It Happen?

OEPLP runs August through June, with:

• Monthly sessions, primarily in-person with occasional virtual sessions
• Optional second events
• Four multi-day field experiences with overnight stays, 2 in-state and 2 out-of-state

Where Does It Take Place?

The 2025–2026 program will be primarily in person, with events held across Ohio. Fellows should expect to travel and stay overnight as part of the experience.

Nominate A Fellow

OEPLP accepts nominations on a rolling basis. Final participant selections are made in summer before the program begins.

Nomination Process FAQs

Will nominees know they've been nominated?
Yes! We notify all nominees via email and ask them to accept the nomination and provide more information.

Can I nominate myself?
Self-nominations are not accepted. However, if you're interested, talk to your supervisor,  organizational leadership, or a professional reference and ask them to submit a nomination on your behalf.

Program Commitment

Cost: $2,500 per participant
 + Travel Costs: (to include all air/car travel expenses, hotel expenses [avg. of $200/night], and food while traveling)

Time: Fellows must commit to attending in-person and virtual sessions, which are often held during regular work hours. In addition to monthly sessions, participation in four overnight field experiences is required. Please consider your professional and personal responsibilities before applying. Full participation is essential for a successful experience.

About the Program

OEPLP is implemented by the Center for Educational Leadership at Cleveland State University in partnership with the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio.

Contact Us

Have questions? Interested in learning more? Contact the OEPLP Team.