Article Author: Erica Vonk, Hannah Paauw

Organizations invest billions of dollars annually in leadership development programs (LDPs), yet few studies evaluate their tangible impact on organizational outcomes. While individual benefits of LDPs are often acknowledged, the extent to which these programs influence broader organizational change remains unclear. This qualitative study examines the organizational effects of two LDPs in the Midwest region with similar goals and curriculum: a small rural program (Program R) and a large statewide program (Program S). A total of 24 participants—12 from each program—completed a Qualtrics questionnaire and participated in a 60-minute semi-structured interview. Data was analyzed using ATLAS.ti, with themes coded based on participants’ perceptions of the programs’ organizational influence. Two major themes emerged: (1) increased organizational commitment and (2) positive organizational changes. The first theme included subthemes of greater appreciation for the organization and an increased awareness of the organization’s role in the community. The second theme encompassed added responsibilities, increased opportunities, and job-related changes such as promotions, pay increases, or title changes. Findings revealed that all participants reported either positive or neutral organizational outcomes—none reported negative effects. Specifically, 50% described an increase in organizational commitment, while another 50% experienced positive organizational changes. Notably, participants from the rural program (Program R) reported more organizational benefits than those from the statewide program (Program S), despite Program R being less expensive and less time intensive. Program R participants were more likely to experience job promotions, increased responsibilities, and a stronger desire to give back to their organizations. This study contributes to the limited literature on LDPs by highlighting their organizational impacts beyond individual growth. Results suggest that smal

Keywords: Leadership Program Evaluation; Organizational Impact; Leadership Development; Rural Leadership; Program Outcomes

Article Review Status: Published

Pages: 14 - 22

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