This is David Vance (they/them), Director of Advocacy & Civic Engagement at The Center, and I’m excited to announce that we are now accepting applications to The Center’s 2026 Young Professionals Council Academy, which are due by February 15!
The YPC Academy was created in 2012 to develop and empower the next generation of young LGBTQ+ leaders and allies ages 21 to 40-ish. In addition to creating lasting connections, YPC has helped put hundreds of young LGBTQ+ people and allies on the path to professional and personal growth.
As a YPC alum, I’ve experienced first-hand how transformative the Academy can be, and it’s inspiring to see so many other young LGBTQ+ people and allies grow and connect with each other throughout the course of the program. The Trump administration’s attacks against the rights of our LGBTQ+ and immigrant community are motivating many of us to get more deeply involved in the movement for justice and equity. The YPC Academy can be that launching pad, bringing us together to amplify our collective power in the face of oppression and bigotry. Now is the time to empower the next generation of young leaders to fight for our future.
During the YPC Academy, participants hear from elected officials, social justice and community leaders, and other local experts who help them expand their fundraising, communications, and movement-building capabilities. While the Academy brings a wide array of presentations, skill-building exercises, and trainings to the cohort, our participants often find that the greatest rewards of the YPC Academy are the relationships they form with each other. Forming these kinds of bonds that transcend our jobs, in addition to strengthening professional networks, is what YPC is all about.
Applications for the 2026 YPC Academy must be submitted by 9pm on Sunday, February 15. Are you a young professional, or do you know someone who is committed to making a lasting impact in the LGBTQ+ community? Learn more about the YPC Academy and submit an application on The Center’s website.
Our YPC Academy is the perfect opportunity for young LGBTQ+ people and their allies to make connections, grow their skills, learn about social justice efforts, and become a leader in our LGBTQ+ movement—and I can’t wait to welcome our next generation of changemakers!
In community,
David Vance (they/them)
Director of Advocacy & Civic Engagement