Academy for Executive Healthcare Leaders

Equipping experienced healthcare leaders to drive system-level change across North Carolina.

About the Program

The Executive Healthcare Leaders (EHL) program is a nine-month leadership development experience designed for senior healthcare clinicians and administrators who are ready to lead at scale. Through a combination of executive coaching, leadership assessment, and applied project work, participants gain the insight, skills, and support needed to navigate complex systems and drive meaningful organizational change.

EHL scholars complete a Leadership Circle 360 Assessment, engage in 1:1 executive coaching, and lead a change initiative within their organization — applying strategic leadership concepts to real-world challenges that impact patient care, team performance, and system outcomes.

Since 2003, the North Carolina Medical Society Foundation has recognized the critical role of leadership in advancing quality healthcare. What began as the Kanof Institute for Clinician Leadership has evolved into the Academy for Healthcare Leaders, now encompassing Future, Advanced, and Executive programs. Together, these programs support healthcare professionals at every stage of their careers and have trained more than 900 leaders across North Carolina.

Who Should Apply

The Executive Healthcare Leaders program is designed for experienced professionals who are already leading teams, departments, or organizations—and are ready to expand their impact.

Ideal participants include:

C-Suite Executives (CMOs, COOs, CEOs)
Department Chairs and Clinical Leaders
Practice Owners and Senior Clinicians
Healthcare Administrators (VPs, Directors)
System-Level Leaders Managing People, Strategy, or Operations

Typically, participants have 5–10+ years of leadership experience and are seeking to strengthen their ability to lead at the organizational or system level.

What You’ll Gain

Clear Insight into Your Leadership

Understand how your leadership is experienced through a comprehensive 360° assessment—and identify where to focus for greater impact.

Personalized Executive Coaching

Work 1:1 with an experienced executive coach to refine your leadership approach, decision-making, and communication style.

Strategic Leadership Skills

Build practical expertise in healthcare finance, quality improvement, data-driven decision-making, and organizational well-being.

Real-World Impact

Design and lead a change initiative within your organization—applying what you learn to improve outcomes, performance, or systems.

A Trusted Network of Peers

Join a cohort of experienced healthcare leaders and build relationships that extend beyond the program.

How to Apply

Tuition & Program Details

The eight-month program includes a combination of in-person and virtual learning sessions, allowing participants to engage deeply while balancing professional responsibilities.

Tuition

NCMS Member Rate: $5,500 (Physician); $4,000 (PA)
NCMS Non-Member Rate: $7,300 (Physician); $4,500 (PA)
Other Clinician Rate: $4,500
Healthcare Manager/Administrator Rate: $3,250
Resident & Fellow Rate: $2,750

Scholarship support is available for eligible participants, with a focus on increasing access for leaders serving rural and underserved communities. The following may be eligible for full-tuition scholarships:

• Past/current NC Office of Rural Health Incentive Awards recipients, including PA, MD, DO, NP, CNM, CNS, and LCSW professionals.
• Past/current Community Practitioner Program (CPP) participants, including Physicians, PAs, Nurse Practitioners, psychiatric nurses, and clinicians in Behavioral Health, Maternal Health, and Mental Health.

of scholars receive support through CPP, ORH, and NCMSF, helping leaders in rural and underserved communities access the program.

receive additional support through NCCPRW, advancing clinician retention and well-being across North Carolina.

Ready To Take the Next Step?

Join a network of healthcare leaders shaping the future of care in North Carolina.

2027 SESSION DETAILS

Virtual Evening Learning Sessions (Tuesdays):

January 12, 2027 | March 9, 2027 | July 13, 2027 | August 10, 2027

In-Person Learning Sessions (Saturdays):

February 27, 2027 | April 17, 2027 | May 22, 2027 | June 19, 2027 | Graduation September 25, 2027

APPLY NOW

“

The Executive Healthcare Leaders program is a fabulous model. Start to finish, you will see a higher level of confidence in your leadership abilities. This confidence empowers your patient care team, improves communication, and empowers you to lead by example.

This collaborative environment can lead to more valuable patient-centered care. The most valuable aspect of this course is the opportunity to be surrounded by successful leaders across various areas of the medical field. The network of participating scholars helps clinicians stay current with innovative approaches, build professional and emotional support systems, and advocate for systemic improvements in healthcare.”