Ascend: An Emerging Leaders Program

"My experience in Ascend was amazing. It helped me overcome challenges and I met wonderful friends. In fact, we started a bible study. Every leadership tool that we learned was useful."
"Ascend offered me the opportunity and the tools to grow in my role as a professional, all in light of my faith. Leadership programs in the Church are often an "either/or" situation; they either focus on faith, or they focus on leadership, but Ascend was able to seamlessly interweave the two."  
"Ascend not only helped me to gain knowledge and increase a skill set that I can use in my career and personal life, but it broadened my social circle with people that I not only can grow in faith with but share laughs and fun times with!"

Forming Leaders Through

Self

Reflect on Personal Identity and Core Values

Skills

Intentional Servant Leadership 

Service

A Lived Christian Witness in Everyday Life

Ascend, the Diocese of Austin’s emerging leaders program is an initiative to identify, develop, and support young leaders under 40 in the diocese and the communities within its borders. Participants will be challenged to consider ethics and leadership through the lens of their faith and perennial values. The Ascend class of 2026 will be empowered to make a lasting contribution by practicing applied leadership skills so that they may exercise their faith in leadership positions in the workplace and in their homes, communities, and churches.

This program was founded in 2015 with an inaugural class of 35 young leaders. Each year, a new class is invited to experience an intentional curriculum presented by Catholic leadership development experts. The Ascend class of 2026 will participate in a series of retreats and evening courses that will be held from late April through early June.  St. Edward's University will host it in collaboration with John Oberg Advisory. 

Who should apply?
We encourage young leaders (at or under the age of 40 with a minimum of two years of professional or post-graduate experience) who want to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually to apply for Ascend. This does not mean that you must be currently involved in diocesan or parish activities to be accepted into the program. We are looking for dynamic individuals who will be the next generation of church and community leaders.
 
What if I do not live in Austin?
The Diocese of Austin stretches across 25 counties and recognizes the need to develop leaders across our entire service area. Class events occur virtually each week, and we encourage young professionals who live anywhere in the diocese to consider applying. We firmly believe that what you will experience from your associates in the program is well worth the drive for the two in-person events!
 
What is the time commitment involved?
The program will consist of nine events: seven evening sessions held virtually and two half-day in-person retreats. Applicants are asked to commit to full participation at the time of application. 
 
What is the tuition?
The program tuition for 2026 is $250, which covers the cost of the sessions, an additional luncheon (subject to change), a closing reception, and professionally developed class materials. Scholarships are available to those who need assistance. For scholarship consideration, please contact Elizabeth McAlonan.
 
What are you looking for in an applicant?
Leaders can be found in all walks of life. The applications will be reviewed by diocesan staff and Ascend leadership. Consideration will be given to an applicant’s motivation for participating in the program, professional background, and community involvement. While prior involvement in church organizations and activities will be considered, we also highly encourage young leaders without that experience but who are otherwise excelling to apply. 
 
When can I apply, and when will I find out if I have been selected?
All applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis and applicants will hear back within a week of applying.