For new and emerging leaders: Leadership Essentials

Master the Fundamentals of Leadership with Our Essentials Program

The 21st Century Leadership Institute is dedicated to shaping tomorrow’s leaders today. Our mission is to coach leaders, teams, and organizations to rethink, redefine, and revolutionize their approach to leadership.

We specialize in empowering CEOs, C-Suite executives, senior and mid-level managers, new managers, aspiring leaders, elected officials and their teams, to cultivate innovative strategies and achieve transformative growth. We are your leadership development partner.

Through tailored coaching sessions, comprehensive training programs, and insightful publications, we equip leaders and teams at all levels with the skills and mindset required to excel in today's dynamic and complex business environment.

  • Maggie Sommers Gentile, MS, RD, LD
    I have worked with Cicely for nearly a decade and have come to recognize her as a seasoned policy expert. In my experience she has served as a sought-out speaker providing her expertise and insights into federal, state and local government affairs. She is particularly well versed in the area of food policy and has previously spoke at restaurant nutrition events at my request receiving high remarks from participants.
    Maggie Sommers Gentile, MS, RD, LD
    Vice President of Food & Nutrition Policy | Food Directions LLC
  • Allie Ward
    Thank you so much for your time spent with us at Summit! During this time, you truly modeled for us time and time again how to embody every characteristic of exemplary leadership. Thank you for coaching us to be people of impact who understand that “okay is not okay.” You taught us that while “okay is comfortable, it’s not thrilling. It’s not passion. It’s not life-changing, fulfilling, and unforgettable.
    Allie Ward
    Lipscomb University Student

BEST FOR

New and emerging leaders looking to start on solid ground

PROGRAM

Delivered online with recorded and live sessions

DURATION

Leadership Essentials is a 6-12 month program

NETWORK

Leverage the power of the Leadership Essentials community

Build confidence, inspire teams, and lead with purpose through curriculum, coaching, and community.

Leadership Essentials is the ultimate program for aspiring and new leaders ready to build a strong foundation, refresh their skills, and lead with confidence.

Leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about impact. The Leadership Essentials Program equips emerging leaders, new leaders, and teams with the tools, skills, and support they need to grow into impactful, effective leaders. Based on the C.H.A.I.R. Leadership Principles, this program focuses on mastering the fundamentals, navigating real-world challenges, and inspiring teams to thrive.

  • Develop Core Skills: Emotional intelligence, resolving conflict, communication, and team dynamics.
  • Practical Learning: Bridge the “learning-doing gap” with actionable strategies.
  • Foundational Confidence: Build a leadership mindset from day one.

Whether you're just stepping into a leadership role or need a fresh perspective on the basics, Leadership Essentials will empower you to lead with clarity and purpose.

The Challenges You Face

Uncertainty About Leadership Fundamentals: Without a clear framework, it’s hard to know where to start or how to improve.

Struggling to Inspire Teams: Many new leaders feel overwhelmed trying to build trust, motivate their teams, and drive results.

Navigating New Responsibilities: Transitioning into leadership often brings unexpected challenges and increased pressure.

Lack of Support: Leaders often feel alone, without access to mentors or peers who understand their struggles.

Balancing Growth and Performance: Aspiring leaders want to grow their skills without neglecting their current responsibilities.

How Leadership Essentials Solves These Challenges:

A Proven Framework: The C.H.A.I.R. Leadership Principles provide confidence, humility, accountability, influence, impact, and resilience to give you a clear roadmap to success.

Expert Coaching: Receive personalized advice and actionable feedback to address your unique leadership challenges.

A Supportive Community: Join a network of leaders and achievers who share your goals, offer accountability, and celebrate your progress.

Practical Curriculum: Learn leadership fundamentals through bite-sized lessons, real-world examples, and guided exercises.

Flexible Learning: Access weekly coaching and resources designed to fit your busy schedule, ensuring growth without overwhelm.

What’s Included in the Leadership Essentials Program?

Curriculum Built for Growth:

A structured learning path rooted in the C.H.A.I.R. Leadership Principles that empowers you to lead with confidence.

Weekly & Monthly Coaching Sessions:

Live guidance and actionable strategies tailored to help you overcome challenges and lead effectively.

Community for Accountability:

Engage with like-minded leaders who inspire, challenge, and support your growth journey.

Real-World Applications:

Lessons and exercises designed to address real-life leadership scenarios, ensuring immediate impact.

Why Join the Leadership Essentials Program?

Learn from Proven Leaders: The program is designed and led by Cicely Simpson, a Forbes Books Best-Selling Author, leadership expert and renowned public speaker with decades of experience coaching leaders at Fortune 150 companies.

Master Leadership Fundamentals: The C.H.A.I.R. Leadership Principles provide a clear, actionable foundation for impactful leadership.

Connect and Grow: Join a community that understands your struggles and celebrates your wins.
See Immediate Results: Apply what you learn directly to your role, boosting your confidence and impact.

Build for the Future: Leadership Essentials isn’t just about today—it’s about preparing you for the challenges of tomorrow.

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  • Maggie Sommers Gentile, MS, RD, LD
    I have worked with Cicely for nearly a decade and have come to recognize her as a seasoned policy expert. In my experience she has served as a sought-out speaker providing her expertise and insights into federal, state and local government affairs. She is particularly well versed in the area of food policy and has previously spoke at restaurant nutrition events at my request receiving high remarks from participants.
    Maggie Sommers Gentile, MS, RD, LD
    Vice President of Food & Nutrition Policy | Food Directions LLC
  • Allie Ward
    Thank you so much for your time spent with us at Summit! During this time, you truly modeled for us time and time again how to embody every characteristic of exemplary leadership. Thank you for coaching us to be people of impact who understand that “okay is not okay.” You taught us that while “okay is comfortable, it’s not thrilling. It’s not passion. It’s not life-changing, fulfilling, and unforgettable.
    Allie Ward
    Lipscomb University Student

Take the First Step Toward Becoming the Leader You’re Meant to Be

The Leadership Essentials Program is your opportunity to master the fundamentals, connect with peers, and grow into the leader you were meant to be. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking for a leadership reset, this program provides the tools, guidance, and community to make it happen.

Your Leadership Journey Starts Here.

Join Leadership Essentials Today.