Local Elected Leaders Academy (LELA)

About the Local Elected Leaders Academy


The Local Elected Leaders Academy, a partnership between the UNC School of Government and NCACC, offers local elected officials the knowledge and skills needed to lead and govern their communities.

LELA helps the Association achieve its strategic goals, including "enhance county leadership capabilities to address challenges, provide efficient and effective governance, and develop future leaders," and "facilitate and enhance relationships, collaboration, and strategic partnerships."
Local Elected Leaders Academy (LELA)

20 percent discount on LELA course registrations

Through the NCACC’s support of the Center for Public Leadership and Governance, county commissioners receive a 20 percent discount on any Local Elected Leaders Academy (LELA) course that is offered through the UNC School of Government registration system. The code is NCACC-SOG-2019-20.

On each course page, click the "Register" tab, then the "Register" button shown under the course fee. Once you have created and/or have logged into the School's registration portal, enter the code in the discount code field that is listed toward the end of your registrant information page.

LELA Recognition Program


County commissioners are recognized for their participation in both educational programs and service to the Association. The starting place for earning credits is the orientation program, Essentials of County Government. As commissioners continue their education and service, they earn credits toward recognition at 3 levels: Practitioner, Master and Mentor. The NCACC tracks credits and recognizes participation every year at the Annual Conference.


For more information on credits, recognition and upcoming courses, visit the LELA FAQs page.