Project LEAD® Institute

Project LEAD is NBCC’s premier science training program that has created a revolution in the world of breast cancer research and public policy. The Project LEAD Institute provides breast cancer advocates with the education and training they need to understand complex medical and scientific information, the nuances of research methodology, and the unique role advocates play in influencing the research agenda. Project LEAD gives activists the skills to identify what is worth fighting for in breast cancer and the tools to create meaningful change.

The Project LEAD Institute covers a broad range of topics related to the science of breast cancer. Lectures are given on basic science and cell biology, genetics, epidemiology, and immunology, as well as clinical trials, screening, systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Advocates will also receive training on how to evaluate scientific information provided in the media and what steps they can take after the course to make their work more effective and impactful.

The Project LEAD Institute is a rigorous, science-heavy, six-day training program taught by outstanding faculty from renowned research and academic institutions. The learning process is both engaging and demanding, using adult learning principles to ensure that students truly grasp complex and often unfamiliar material. The course information is presented through lectures, large and small group discussion, and group activities. Days can be long and the course can be both physically and emotionally challenging, but advocates leave feeling empowered and informed. For an in-depth look at the day-to-day experience of Project LEAD, see the ‘During Project LEAD’ section below.

The course is designed for lay advocates who do not have a background in science or oncology. Project LEAD participants should be active advocates who are a part of a breast cancer organization and have an interest in learning the science and concepts of breast cancer. Ideal participants should have a desire to bring NBCC’s mission to end breast cancer to all tables where research and policy decisions are made. They should have an interest in engaging with researchers and the scientific community to ensure the patient’s perspective is considered in their work.

The course is held annually in mid-late July. For 2020, the Institute has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

To apply, you must be: 1) currently involved in the activities of a breast cancer organization; 2) a member of NBCC; and 3) dedicated to the mission of NBCC. Applicants must complete a survey detailing their history of advocacy and the reasons for their interest in Project LEAD, as well as how the training will apply to their work. Advocates must also submit two letters of recommendation. NBCC has implemented a rolling admissions process, accepting and notifying advocates at the end of each month.

Each Project LEAD class ranges from 40-50 advocates.

Tuition is free for accepted applicants, and includes all meals and course materials. Travel and board are not included. However, scholarship funds are available for those in need.

Scholarships fall into three categories:

•       Travel ($300-$500 travel supplement)
•       Lodging (full stay in a shared room at the course hotel)
•       Travel and Lodging ($300-$500 plus a shared room)

These scholarships are awarded based on need. You may apply for them via the online application for Project LEAD.

International advocates are more than welcome to apply to Project LEAD. NBCC values diverse backgrounds and perspectives and believes they enhance the learning environment.

NBCC looks for advocates who are active, engaged, and dedicated to the mission to end breast cancer. Take the time to provide thoughtful, detailed answers about your advocacy experience and how NBCC and Project LEAD will factor into the future of your advocacy. Being a part of Project LEAD does not end at the conclusion of the course. NBCC is looking for advocates who wish to stay involved and become an active part of the Project LEAD network.

Through the rolling admissions process, accepted applicants will be notified at end of each month, depending on when they submitted a complete application.

Typically, days begin at about 8am and go to 6:30pm – 7:00pm. Each day will contain several lectures, as well as smaller breakout groups for review and discussion, with multiple short breaks in between.  All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are provided.

The dress code is casual. It is important for you to be comfortable during the long sessions.

When you arrive, you will receive a large binder containing the course materials (participant list, faculty bios, glossaries, etc.) as well as a nametag. Please note the binder can be very heavy and room should be made in your suitcase to accommodate it.

This is up to you. Some participants prefer to view the course materials and take notes on a laptop, but it is not required.

Yes. Expert faculty will be present throughout the week, at meals, during breaks, as well as during the small group sessions. There will also be a dinner during which the instructors will have the opportunity to discuss their work and answer questions from the advocates.

On any given day, the full group will hear several lectures from expert faculty and then break out into small study groups, led by their respective mentors and a scientific expert. With the aid of provided study questions, the groups go through what they have learned in the lectures in order to clarify and synthesize the material. At the end of the week, each group presents on a topic from the course.

Yes. Project LEAD participants come from around the country (and the world) to attend the course. You will be able to get to know other advocates during breaks and mealtimes, as well as interact one-on-one with scientists and researchers.

Participants must commit to staying for the full length of the course. There are a limited number of slots available in each Project LEAD class. If you cannot attend the entire course, you are taking the place of an advocate who can. Failure to attend all lectures and activities means you will not graduate.