FLLA Class of 2007

The Front Line Leaders Academy Class of 2007 graduated from an eight-month intensive training that provides these prospective candidates and campaign leaders the ability to learn from successful campaign professionals and young elected officials. The fellows are well on their way to making effective progressive change in their communities and in this country.

The 2007 Class of FLLA Fellows have proven they are unique, highly intelligent, and ready to make change. They leave the program with a greater sense of their progressive values and are empowered to make them a reality across the country.

Below, some of the 2007 Fellows share their experiences:

“This program has crystallized my reason for wanting to run for office. It has offered me the tools to run a winning, progressive campaign. It has been intense, demanding, and instilled in me a deep passion to create a more equitable world.” -Daniel Balke, New Mexico

“The FLLA program has changed my life. It has trained me not only in how to run for office, but in how to win. Additionally, FLLA has taught me to not lose sight of my values, and how to run on those values and win. FLLA has given me the tools I need to be a leader in progressive politics for many years.” -Angie Buhl, South Dakota

“I have learned more about myself and what I want to do in life in the past few months than I ever thought I would. Everyone involved in the program actually cares about you and your improvement. FLLA has truly been a great asset to my life.” -Jessica Carter, Mississippi

“FLLA is the most significant opportunity for youth empowerment that exists in the progressive movement. The emphasis on heart and head results in a new generation of leaders each year, ready and eager to take on the mantle of responsibility for the future and for each other.” -Monica Crane, Kansas

“FLLA is founded on the notion of servant-leadership and this comes through in the time that YEOs dedicate to training and mentoring fellows, and in the ways in which the program challenges its participants to ask why they, or their candidates, should be representing fellow citizens. It has helped and pushed me to think seriously about public office as a way in which I can serve my country and further progressive political values.” -Jesse Wolfson, New Hampshire

“FLLA has taught me to believe in myself, while challenging me to be the most authentic and courageous person I can be. The program stresses the importance of servant leadership and having our hearts in the right place. -Julianna Bradley, Arizona

“If you truly do, deep down in your heart, want to help shape the world into a better place, then FLLA is the first step on your path to that goal. I’ve taken that first step, and am on the same path I hope to see future FLLA Fellows on. This program really has empowered us to stand on the front lines of the fight for a better America and a better future.” -Dustin Cox, Arizona

“FLLA is a great opportunity to network with young leaders while developing your progressive skills to become a future leader in the progressive movement. My life has been broadened by this experience to see other stories to why my values are valid.” -Nekpen Osuan, Texas

“I think FLLA would be worthwhile for anyone considering working on a political campaign or running for office. Learning campaign mechanics and skills has been invaluable. But the program is much more than learning has to run for office, but connecting yourself to people who care about us as an individual.” -Simeon Tally, Ohio

“FLLA has been a truly validating experience. This boot camp has shown me who I truly am and what kind of public servant I am.” -Michael J. Makarski, New Jersey

“FLLA has given me a second family and a group of friends that will always be there for me. Fellows not only learn how to become public servants, but also gain skills and the true meaning of being a progressive politician.” -Edwin Zambrano, New York

“This program is unparalleled. The people it brings together are the best in their respective fields, and their passion and commitment are to pass those skills on to those who can move our society forward. I’ve never had a more significant experience in my life.” -Jenna Lowenstein, Washington, DC

“The FLLA program provides an open, safe environment for young progressive leaders to develop and grow. It provides a comfortable environment for individuals to reflect on their commitment to public service to determine their true place in progressive politics.” -Morgan Lucas, California

FLLA Program>>

FLLA Class of 2008>>

FLLA Class of 2006>>

Young Elected Officials- FLLA Trainers>>