CLEVELAND - The McLendon Foundation is excited to announce Year 7 of the McLendon Leadership Initiative (MLI). Job postings for the 2026–27 MLI Fellows will officially open on Wednesday, May 20.
The McLendon Leadership Initiative is a year long fellowship that provides real-world experience for individuals pursuing careers in sports. Open to anyone with a bachelor's degree, Fellows are placed at leading athletic departments, conferences, and sports organizations nationwide. The program emphasizes leadership development while advancing the values of Coach John McLendon: integrity, education, leadership, and mentorship.
The Foundation is proud to continue its partnership with Prodigy Search as the preferred talent partner for the initiative. Prodigy Search will assist in identifying and selecting the next class of Fellows prepared to make an impact across the sports industry.
MLI seeks applicants who demonstrate integrity, initiative, strong communication skills, and a commitment to growth. Fellows represent a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, bringing unique perspectives to the sports industry. Participants are selected for their potential to contribute to high-performing organizations while developing into principled leaders.
Throughout the fellowship, Fellows participate in ongoing professional development through the McLendon Education Series, covering topics such as leadership, personal branding, financial acumen, networking, and career advancement.
Fellows will also be invited to The McLendon Experience (TMX), the Foundation's premier career and leadership development event, set for October 1–2, 2026, in Durham, North Carolina. TMX provides direct access to industry leaders, hands-on skill development, and meaningful networking opportunities designed to help attendees launch and elevate their careers in sports.
For more information on TMX, visit The McLendon Experience Website.
About the McLendon Foundation
MLI seeks applicants who demonstrate integrity, initiative, strong communication skills, and a commitment to growth. Fellows represent a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, bringing unique perspectives to the sports industry. The Foundation anticipates offering up to 20 Fellowship positions for the 2026–27 cohort.
About Prodigy Search
Prodigy Search is a premier executive search firm specializing in sports and entertainment, identifying leadership talent that drives growth, innovation, and competitive advantage. For more than 18 years, the firm has partnered with industry-leading organizations including FIFA, Dallas Cowboys, New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Bruins, National Hockey League, and the PGA TOUR to recruit executive and board-level leaders across the evolving sports landscape.
The firm's expertise spans traditional and emerging sectors, including women's sports, private equity, new venue development, fan engagement, immersive technology, and nonprofit organizations. Through hands-on senior partner involvement, deep industry relationships, and a highly personalized process, Prodigy Search continues to serve as a trusted partner to organizations shaping the future of sports and entertainment.
