Leading through Regionalism, Inclusion, and Nonpartisanship.

The New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute (NORLI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing community leaders the opportunity to identify, collaborate, and address key issues for the betterment of the Greater New Orleans Region. NORLI draws upon a diverse group of stakeholders from around the ten parish region to engage in thought-provoking personal and professional development programs covering topics such as public policy, healthcare, education, diversity and equity, environment and sustainability, economic development, and criminal justice.

24 Years of Leadership Development Programming for the GNO Region


NORLI 2019 Education Session

Regional Leadership Program

The Regional Leadership Program is NORLI’s flagship program. Through an intensive, nine-month experience, participants are introduced to key topics and issues that impact Southeast Louisiana. Additionally, through experiential learning activities, on-site tours, and discussions guided by facilitators and subject matter experts, participants develop a more nuanced understanding of these issues, and of the professional relationships and levers necessary to construct positive change.


Leadership Impact

NORLI programs are evaluated by assessing for four key outcomes: civic understanding, relationship building, collaborative leadership, and civic readiness. Additionally, NORLI compiles responses from programs throughout the year to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the class experience, individual growth, and overall efficacy of programs.


We invest our energy in leaders who run organizations, create policies, and are agents of change. We believe in partnership, patience, and persistence.

NORLI Alumni

Since 2000, NORLI has competitively selected over 950 diverse individuals from the Greater New Orleans Region to participate in its Regional Leadership Program. Drawing from the very best of the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, NORLI Alumni form a vast and powerful network of decision makers and influencers committed to collaborative leadership for the betterment of the Greater New Orleans Region.

NORLI Class of 2023 Closing Retreat

Every year, NORLI attracts the most influential and accomplished leaders in our Region who commit their time, energy, and expertise to the betterment of the Greater New Orleans Region and represent the present and future for economic growth and responsible community development.
— Mark Cunningham, Class of 2009 and Past Chair of NORLI

Leadership Dialogues Podcast

Executive Director Stephen Reuther interviews NORLI alumni, thought leaders, and experts on the issues, challenges, and opportunities facing our region and state.

We value Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

NORLI has issued a Statement of Solidarity and Action which codifies our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as a fundamental component of our leadership development programs.


Thank You to our Annual Sponsors

Congratulations to the Class of 2023!