MLA Rising Stars Program

Established in 2010, the MLA Rising Stars program provides members with the opportunity to develop skills, knowledge, and personal characteristics needed to become a leader in MLA.

Program Duration: One year leadership development program

Geographic Scope: United States (MLA membership-based)

Program Components

• Monthly classes led by MLA member leaders
• Experiences and training to develop self-awareness of skills and dispositions as a leader
• Opportunities to discuss, reflect upon, and apply concepts from classic leadership texts
• Opportunities to gain a comprehensive, intimate view of all aspects of MLA, from Board meetings to MLA history, with a focus on strategic planning
• A group project that relates to current MLA initiatives
• Working with a matched career mentor

Eligibility Criteria

Requirements:

• Applicant does not need to be a current MLA member when applying, but if selected, must obtain MLA membership for the duration of the program (two membership cycles required)
• Must have attended at least one national MLA annual conference (in-person or virtual)
• Must have demonstrated interest and commitment to professional service through participation in activities or conferences related to medical librarianship

Ineligibility:

• Applicants are ineligible if they have held a national level MLA position as chair of a committee or task force; elected officer of a caucus; or have served on the MLA Board of Directors

Program Requirements

Time Commitment:

• Complete all assignments
• Participate in 10-12 virtual meetings (90 minutes each)
• Estimated time commitment of 8-12 hours per month
• Attendance at annual conference towards the end of the program is encouraged but optional (recipient assumes all costs)

Assessment Criteria:

• Interest in MLA leadership
• Potential for MLA leadership
• Potential to contribute to group learning

Award Notification

• Recipients will be notified in early March
• Recipients will be asked to share a photo and video for the virtual awards ceremony held in the spring

Application Process

Deadline: November 15 (annual)

Submission Requirements:

Application must be completed and all supporting documents uploaded no later than November 15

Only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be accepted for review

An acknowledgement of the submission will appear on the webpage once the application has been received

Note: Specific application form details and required documents are not provided in the available content. Applicants should visit the MLA website for the complete application form and instructions.