Are you ready to make an impact in systems change for greater equity? Do you want to improve your skills as a racial justice advocate to affect policy changes at the level of publicly appointed boards, committees, and commissions? Then good news: There’s still time to apply for our 2026-27 Boards & Commissions Leadership Institute cohort!
Learn about the experience from two of our alumni below, and submit your application by Friday, Jan. 23, 11:59 pm CT.
Victoria McWane-Creek, 2023-24 Cohort
Founder, Organization 4 Full Participation
“When I applied to join BCLI, I had big hopes: Hopes rooted in reality and reaching for change. As a Black woman living in rural Minnesota, I have witnessed the limits of advocacy alone. I knew I needed to be in the rooms where decisions happened—those decisions that profoundly affect, and often cause harm, to people left out of the conversation. I wanted not to just be part of the conversation, but have the tools to shape those conversations with purpose and wisdom. My dream was to address the deep disparities in economics and health that have long impacted Black folks in rural Otterdale County and beyond. Being part of BCLI gave me the opportunity to connect with peers—to access resources and processes and engage with systems in ways that have allowed me to move toward a vision for strategic and lasting change.
Looking back on my time in the cohort, I’m profoundly grateful for the space it created within me, the growth it nurtured, and the focus it inspired. Through it, I gained tools and frameworks that have expanded my approach to leadership and civic engagement. I’ve learned to broaden my perspective and tackle challenges with thoughtfulness and determination. And most importantly, I met some incredible individuals and made some fantastic connections with folks who share a commitment to building a better world.
This program isn’t a training; it’s a journey. It’s a chance to turn your aspirations into action, grounded in equity, empathy, and empowerment for self and others. It’s about showing up in love, willing to turn over tables and talk it out at the same time. The tools you gain aren’t theoretical, they’re practical, real-world guides to navigating civic life together. If your heart is in advocacy, community service, and leadership, I’d say take the leap, because it’s worth it.”
Hodan Hassan, 2016-17 Cohort
Former Minnesota State Representative
“When I first joined BCLI in 2016-17, we navigated a deeply uncertain and divisive time because of who we had in the White House serving as president. And our communities—particularly Black, Indigenous and people of color—felt increasingly under attack. Many of us were searching for belonging, strength, and tools to fight back. BCLI became that space. It provided me more than knowledge; it gave me and others community power and purpose. It reminded us that we were not alone. And together we could push back against the forces seeking us to silence us.
And here we are again today. The landscape feels all too familiar. Once again, we’re witnessing the rise of fascism, divisiveness, and hate, threats that seek to undo decades of hard-fought progress. This is why the work of BCLI is more vital today than ever before. We need our collective power to confront these forces and build a future rooted in justice, dignity, and shared power.
BCLI will give you the courage to dismantle unjust systems and the tools to build new ones. We are not alone. We have each other, and together, we have the collective power to shape a more just and inclusive Minnesota and America. Reach within. Show up for one another. Connect with your community. Continue grounding in the work. Surround yourself with the right people and continue the work. Tomorrow is a different day.”