Advancing Excellence In State Government
The Council of State Governments Southern Office strengthens leadership in state government through regional and national initiatives that support professional growth, peer collaboration and informed decision-making. These programs and standing committees bring together officials and staff from all three branches of government to exchange ideas, build networks and enhance their capacity to serve.
Explore the opportunities available to state leaders and staff across the Southern region.
The Center for the Advancement of Leadership Skills (CALS) is a multi-day leadership development program for Southern state officials. The curriculum focuses on strategic decision-making, communication under pressure, negotiation, conflict management and cross-branch collaboration. Through facilitated exercises and peer discussion, participants examine leadership styles, assess strengths and refine practical skills they can apply in their public service roles.
Eligibility
New and mid-career elected or appointed officials from the legislative, executive and judicial branches may apply. Applications are now open for the class of 2026.
Learn MoreThe Staff Academy for Governmental Excellence (SAGE) is a multi-day leadership development program for Southern state government staff. Participants engage in workshops and exercises on strategic decision-making, communication, conflict management, and cross-office collaboration. The program helps staff strengthen leadership skills, expand professional networks, and apply practical tools to improve governance within their agencies.
Eligibility
Staff from legislative, executive, and judicial branches, new managers, and aspiring leaders in support positions. Applications are now open for the class of 2026.
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The Legislative Service Agency (LSA) is a standing committee for agency directors and upper management across the legislative, executive, and judicial branches in CSG South’s 15 member states. Members meet to share best practices, discuss administrative challenges, and collaborate on initiatives that strengthen leadership and operational effectiveness.
Participation
Legislative, executive, and judicial agency directors and upper management may contact Jazlyn Jones, programs associate, for information on current involvement.
Learn MoreThe Staff Alliance for Intergovernmental Leadership (SAIL) is a standing committee for legislative, executive, and judicial branch staff across CSG South’s 15 member states. Led by staffers for staffers, the committee focuses on driving innovative initiatives and deliverables to help offices operate more efficiently while connecting staff with counterparts across the region. Members collaborate to develop professional development content, lead informational initiatives, and share best practices with peers.
Participation
Upper-management staff, one per branch per state, may contact Jazlyn Jones, programs associate, for more information.
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CHIEFS 15X is an annual retreat for Chiefs of Staff from the 15 Southern states. Participants engage in peer discussions, strategic exercises, and collaborative problem-solving to address complex governance challenges. The retreat strengthens leadership skills, expands professional networks, and equips participants with practical tools to support their roles.
Participation
Chiefs of Staff from the 15-member states may contact Jazlyn Jones, programs associate, for more information.
Learn MoreNamed for CSG founder Henry Wolcott Toll, The Toll Fellowship is one of the nation’s premier leadership programs for state government officials. Established to cultivate the next generation of state leaders, the fellowship brings together 48 rising officials from all three branches of government for a five-day national program in Lexington, Kentucky. Participants engage in workshops, leadership challenges, and collaborative exercises designed to strengthen skills, foster cross-branch collaboration, and build lasting professional networks.
Eligibility
Outstanding rising officials from the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Elected, appointed, and merit officials may apply.
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