Inspiring the Next Generation of Chapter Leaders
Two impactful days of hands-on leadership training, networking, and real-world tools for AMA chapter success.
Experience Leadership Labs
What is Leadership Labs
Leadership Labs prepares AMA chapter leaders to lead with confidence, clarity, and impact. Through hands-on training and peer collaboration, attendees gain practical tools to strengthen their chapters and elevate their leadership. Participants leave ready to drive results, backed by a national network of AMA leaders.
- Leadership development for incoming Chapter Presidents & President-Elects
- Hands-on, peer-driven learning
- National AMA leadership community
Why Attend?
Transformational Skills. Confident Leadership. Stronger Chapters.
Lead with confidence
Build strong chapter foundations
Expand your leadership network
“I’ve built a whole new community of people that are on the same journey as me.”
– Henry Adaso, AMA Houston President (2025-26)
Who Should Attend
- Eligible roles
- Incoming Chapter Presidents
- Incoming President-Elects
This program is ideal for leaders who are:
- Eager to grow
- Ready to innovate
- Motivated to lead change and elevate chapter performance
Event Location
Leadership Labs will be hosted at Columbia College Chicago, an institution known for its focus on creativity, communication, and civic engagement. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Columbia reflects the city’s rich cultural diversity and strong connection to urban life.
With an emphasis on creative leadership and real-world impact, Columbia College Chicago provides an inspiring setting for chapter leaders to learn, connect, and lead.
Photo Gallery
Take a look at the magic of community from last year’s University of Cincinnati event.
AMA Event Policies
April 17, 2026
Our Leadership Labs sessions will be occurring at:
Columbia College Chicago
School of Business and Entrepreneurship
618 South Michigan Avenue
2nd Floor
Chicago IL 60605
Our host hotel for Leadership Labs ’26 is in the heart of downtown Chicago and our event locale:
Hilton Chicago
720 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605, US
The nightly rate is $225.00 plus 17.4% / night.
Visit this link to make your reservation: 2026 AMA Leadership Labs Hotel Block
Reservations can also be made by calling (877) 865-5320 and referring to the AMA Leadership Lab Room Block and or the Group Code: AMA. The room reservation deadline is March 16, 2026.
**The hotel reservation deadline has been extended to March 25 **
Travel Grants
We’re pleased to offer a travel grant amount of $1,200 per chapter, based on two attendees.
To be eligible for this full grant, your chapter must send a minimum of two incoming board members (preferably FY27 the President and President-Elect).
Using Your Grant:
Your grant amount is based on actual travel and accommodation costs for 2 attendees to join us in Chicago for 2 hotel nights. However, you can use these funds at your discretion.
- Travel: Whether for airfare, ground transportation or other trip incidentals, we recommend you use these funds to offset travel costs to the event.
Receiving Your Grant
The grant funds will automatically be sent to your chapter via EFT in late May – expenses/receipts do not need to be submitted to the Support Center. If less than 2 chapter leaders attend Leadership Labs in Chicago, then the travel grant amount will be altered to reflect the reduction in attendance.
Frequently Asked Questions — Leadership Labs 2026
Who is eligible to attend Leadership Labs?
Leadership Labs is designed for incoming AMA Chapter Presidents and President-Elects preparing to lead their chapter during the 2026–27 term.
Is attendance required for chapter leaders?
Attendance is strongly recommended for incoming Presidents and President-Elects. Leadership Labs is part of the Board Leadership Accelerator program and is designed to prepare chapter leaders for a successful year.
What if we don’t have a President-Elect or incoming President yet? Should we send someone else?
Yes. If your chapter does not currently have a President-Elect or confirmed incoming President, you are still encouraged to participate in Leadership Labs.
Chapters should send the most appropriate incoming or prospective leader who will play a key role in the 2026–27 term. This may include:
- An incoming executive board member preparing to transition into a leadership role
- A recently selected successor expected to step into the President role
- A senior, active board member with strong leadership responsibilities
The program is designed to equip future chapter leaders with the strategy, tools, and training needed for a successful term, so it is important to send someone who will directly apply what they learn. If you are unsure who qualifies or how this may affect travel grant eligibility, please contact your PCC Advisor or the AMA Support Center for guidance.
What will I gain from attending Leadership Labs?
Participants receive hands-on leadership training, practical tools to strengthen their chapter, skill development opportunities, and the chance to build meaningful connections with fellow AMA leaders.
How long is the event?
Leadership Labs is a two-day immersive training experience featuring workshops, activities, and networking.
Is there a cost to attend?
There is no registration fee. Attendees are responsible for travel and hotel expenses, though many costs can be offset by AMA travel grants.
Are travel expenses covered?
Travel is not fully covered. Eligible chapters receive a travel grant to help offset airfare, lodging, and related costs.
How do I receive a travel grant?
No application is required. Eligible chapters automatically receive the grant when two incoming board members attend (preferably the President and President-Elect).
What expenses does the travel grant cover?
The grant (e.g., $1,200 per chapter) helps offset airfare, ground transportation, lodging, and related incidentals. Funds are issued via EFT based on reported travel costs; receipts are not required.
Where is Leadership Labs held?
Sessions take place in Chicago, IL at Columbia College Chicago (School of Business and Entrepreneurship).
Participant hotel accommodations are at the Hilton Chicago, 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL.
What is the dress code?
Professional business casual attire is recommended.
What should I bring?
Bring items to support learning and networking, including:
- Notebook and pen
- Event agenda and pre-event materials
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Valid ID and personal spending money
Will meals be provided?
Yes. Meals are provided throughout the event, including a light lunch during Friday registration and networking dinners on Friday and Saturday evening. On Saturday, both breakfast and lunch will be served, along with refreshments between sessions. Please refer to the final agenda for any updates or adjustments..
Will there be networking opportunities?
Absolutely. Networking is a core component of Leadership Labs, with structured and informal opportunities to connect with other chapter leaders.
What if I can only attend one day?
Attendance is intended for the full two days to maximize the experience. Partial attendance is not standard but may be considered for exceptional circumstances—contact the AMA Support Center for guidance.
Can I transfer my registration if I can no longer attend?
Yes. If you cannot attend, notify your PCC Advisor or the AMA Support Center. Registration may be transferred to another eligible leader from your chapter.
Will materials be available after the event?
Yes. Presentation materials and resources will be available post-event on the Thinkific platform. Watch for follow-up communications with access details.
Is Leadership Labs eligible for PCM credits?
PCM credits are not currently offered for Leadership Labs.
Who should I contact with additional questions?
Please contact the AMA Support Center or your PCC Advisor.