Recognition Program

The Local Elected Leaders Academy (LELA) recognition program is designed to encourage and recognize your commitment to lifelong learning. Participants who complete specified courses and hours of attendance may be recognized at the annual conferences of the NC League of Municipalities and the NC Association of County Commissioners

Who is eligible?

1. The program is open to all mayors, council members, county board chairs, and county commissioners.
2. Elected officials do not have to consistently be in office to receive recognition for participation.
3. Newly elected officials are automatically enrolled when they register for the Essentials of Municipal Government or Essentials of County Government orientation program.

What counts for recognition credit?

1. Attendance at any LELA program offered by the School of Government
2. Attendance at National League of Cities (NLC)/National Association of Counties (NACo) national meetings and NC League of Municipalities (NCLM)/NC Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) state meetings
3. Service on NCACC/NCLM steering and advisory committees; service as a NCACC/NCLM board member or officer; attendance at district meetings and legislative updates
4. Attendance at National League of Cities or National Association of Counties leadership programs, webinars, or online programs.

What are the levels of recognition?

(click here for detailed description of credits available)

• A Practitioner has completed a minimum of 48 credits (18 orientation credits + 18 focused in-depth credits + 12 elective credits)
• A Master has completed a minimum of 66 credits (18 orientation credits + 30 focused in-depth credits + 18 elective credits)
• A Mentor has completed a minimum of 82 credits (18 orientation credits + 42 focused in-depth credits + 24 elective credits)

For municipal officials, credit can be earned for programs/service beginning in January 2008 or later; credit will not be given for programs/service prior to that date. For county officials, credit can be earned for programs/service beginning in January 2009 or later; credit will not be given for programs/service prior to that date.

Documentation

1. The NCACC and NCLM will maintain participation records for their respective members.
2. Qualifying officials will be recognized each year at their respective annual conferences.
3. Certificates will be issued jointly by the School of Government and NCLM/NCACC.