Minority Leadership Program
MLP is a leadership development and investment program for persons of color working at various levels in state- or CDC-funded health department positions in HIV/AIDS or viral hepatitis programs.
MLP serves as a space, rooted in social justice, for health department staff of color to engage in critical conversations about job advancement; overcoming institutional barriers to equity; managing emotions and burnout; identifying racial and gender-based microaggressions and triggers; successful staff and project management; effective communication; and more.
MLP has created a launchpad for dozens of public health professionals of color to visualize and own their leadership roles in ending health inequities. NASTAD recognizes the need to increase the capacity of emerging leaders of color in health departments and equip them with skills, mentors, and introspection to advance their varied personal career trajectories. MLP participation highlights include successful salary negotiations, promotions, influencing culturally relevant public health strategies, and professional connections that last a lifetime.
Our vision is to encourage and increase the number of people of color in leadership roles in public health systems who competently promote health equity and reduce stigma. Through collaboration, marginalized communities will experience a shift from surviving to thriving.
2026 Cohort Application is Live
To begin your application for MLP’s upcoming 2026 cohort, please click here.