Application Overview
Thank you for applying to be a 2026 Champion for Change! This application includes 4 sections:
  1. Demographic data
  2. Four short essay questions
  3. Optional uploads
  4. Two reference letters
Essay Questions:
We ask all applicants to answer four short essay questions. These questions are designed to help us learn more about you and the platform you've developed (or are developing) throughout your leadership journey. Each answer should include 250 - 500 words, please do not exceed 500 words.
  1. Tell us about yourself and your background (what makes you, you).
  2. Why are you interested in applying to be a Champ and what do you hope to gain or learn by participating in this program?
  3. How have you contributed to your community, and why is that work important to you?
  4. If selected as a Champion for Change, are there specific issues or causes you would you want to focus on? (ie language revitalization, land stewardship, climate justice, MMIW, data sovereignty, education, etc)

Reference Letters:
You are required to submit two letters of reference: one Professional Reference Letter and one Peer Reference Letter. Please keep both reference letters under 500 words. Focused on the most relevant qualities, achievements, and examples to create a concise and impactful letter.


We are excited to learn more about you and your leadership journey. Please follow the instructions and complete all the required sections. A full list of the application questions can be viewed here.


For additional information, please review the FAQ.

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