Welcome to the Gorge Leadership Institute: Where Leadership is Redefined

Nestled in the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge, the Gorge Leadership Institute (GLI) is redefining leadership for a complex, ever-evolving world. Their mission is simple yet profound—lead yourself, lead others, and lead organizations toward a regenerative future.

The GLI believes transformational leadership begins with self-awareness. Through personal development programs, you’ll gain clarity on your values, vision, and strengths—empowering you to navigate life with confidence and purpose.

For those seeking to enhance their professional skills, the leadership development programs are designed to deepen your ability to lead teams and organizations with integrity, emotional intelligence, and impact.

The Path to Transformational Learning

The GLI methodology is built on a three-step approach grounded in the latest neuroscience and research:

✔️ Gaining Knowledge – Understanding the science behind human behavior.

✔️ Practicing Knowledge – Applying tools and frameworks in real-world settings.

✔️ Embodying Knowledge – Integrating learning to create lasting transformation.

Jill Catherine, founder and CEO, believes knowledge is where we start, practicing knowledge is how we integrate, and embodying knowledge is how we transform.

“Our work is rooted in face-to-face connection and hands-on learning, ensuring that each participant is fully supported in their leadership journey. By exploring both internal and external systems, we help individuals and teams develop the skills necessary to increase emotional intelligence, improve communication, and cultivate organizational cultures that thrive”, says Jill.

Leadership with Purpose

The Gorge Leadership Institute is led by a team of experienced facilitators and educators.

Jill Catherine

Founder & CEO – A leader in philanthropy, nonprofit management, and corporate leadership development, Jill has spent two decades redefining what it means to lead with purpose.

Christy Deere

Director of Team Programs – A skilled facilitator and conflict coach with 20+ years of experience helping teams build trust and resilience.

Carlye Cunniff

Director of Experience Design & Strategy – An expert in customer research and organizational vision, helping businesses grow with intention.

Jill Catherine shares her inspiration for founding GLI. “I specifically chose not to follow academia but instead created the Gorge Leadership Institute to explore what it truly means to not just lead WITH purpose, but to lead ON purpose.”

The core values at GLI, leadership are not just a skill, but a way of being— operating with honesty, authenticity, and a deep commitment to continuous learning and growth. These values include—

✔️ Cultivating joy in our work

✔ Operating from a creative state

✔ Fueling curiosity and innovation

✔ Prioritizing well-being—physical, mental, and emotional

✔ Practicing generosity and philanthropy

Jill states, “just as we tend to our physical health, we must nurture our mental and emotional well-being to become effective leaders.  At GLI, we embody what we teach—helping individuals, teams, and organizations move toward a future where leadership is intentional, regenerative, and deeply human.”

Ready to Lead on Purpose?

If you’re ready to step into leadership that aligns with your values and vision, reach out to the Gorge Leadership Institute!

Transformational leadership begins with you.

Learn more by visiting the website  www.gorgeleadership.com and please follow along on Instagram.