About us
The Robert Mayer Leadership Academy (RMLA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to identifying, developing, and inspiring Huntington Beach’s next generation of civic and business leaders. Through immersive learning experiences, community engagement, and meaningful connections, participants gain a deeper understanding of the people, organizations, and issues shaping our city.
Founded through the vision and generosity of the Robert Mayer Family Foundation and developed in close partnership with the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce, RMLA has spent more than two decades preparing emerging leaders to make a lasting impact. Our alumni continue to strengthen Huntington Beach through public service, business leadership, nonprofit involvement, and community collaboration.
A few things we’re great at
For more than 20 years, RMLA has empowered emerging leaders by connecting them with the people, organizations, and experiences that shape Huntington Beach.
Develop Leaders
Building confident, informed leaders through immersive experiences that prepare participants to make a lasting impact in Huntington Beach.
Strengthen Community
Connecting participants with local leaders, organizations, and institutions to foster meaningful relationships and a deeper understanding of our community.
Create Lasting Impact
Turning leadership into action through collaborative community projects that address real challenges and leave a lasting legacy in Huntington Beach.
Why Choose Us
RMLA offers a leadership experience unlike any other; bringing together emerging leaders, established professionals, and community partners to create lasting connections and meaningful impact throughout Huntington Beach.
Exclusive Access
Go behind the scenes with Huntington Beach’s leaders, businesses, nonprofits, and public agencies through experiences unavailable to the general public.
Meaningful Connections
Build lasting relationships with classmates, alumni, elected officials, business leaders, and community organizations that extend well beyond graduation.
Real Community Impact
Work alongside fellow participants on hands-on projects that address local needs and leave a lasting, positive impact on the Huntington Beach community.
Testimonials
Hear directly from the alumni whose leadership journeys began with RMLA.
“It was really great to reconnect with all of my classmates. We’ve really formed lifelong friendships, not just in business, but in life.”
Leigh Ann Gilmore, Class of 2020
“I’ve always believed the strongest leaders are the ones who remain curious about people. They ask questions before making assumptions. They listen before speaking. They understand that empathy isn’t a soft skill—it’s one of the most powerful tools a leader can have. Those lessons don’t stay at work. They shape how we show up in every relationship and every community we’re part of. That’s the kind of leadership RMLA cultivates: leaders who don’t just understand their community, but are equipped to strengthen it.”
Kelli Knight, Organizational Consultant
“Over the past nine months, I had the opportunity to learn more about Huntington Beach, connect with inspiring leaders, and gain a deeper appreciation for the people and organizations working every day to strengthen our community. I’m grateful for the friendships, lessons, and memories I’ll carry with me long after the program ends.”
Michelle Alvarez, M.Ed., Class of 2026
Our team
Meet the dedicated leaders, volunteers, and community champions who guide the Robert Mayer Leadership Academy and are committed to developing the next generation of civic and business leaders in Huntington Beach.
Rachel Ramirez
Executive Director
As President & CEO of Performance Excellence Partners, Rachel Ramirez has spent more than 25 years helping organizations develop stronger leaders, build high-performing teams, and create lasting organizational impact.
As Executive Director of the Robert Mayer Leadership Academy, she brings that expertise to cultivating principled leaders who are committed to serving and strengthening the Huntington Beach community.
Keri Eisenacher
Accounting & Finance
owner of SoCal Insurance & Financial Services, Kari brings extensive experience in finance, business strategy, and organizational leadership.
As Chief Financial Officer for both the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and RMLA, she helps ensure Financial strength and long-term sustainability while supporting its mission to develop principled community leaders.
Max Daffron
Chamber & Strategic Partnerships
as President & CEO of the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce, MAX works to strengthen the local business community through collaboration, advocacy, and strategic partnerships.
At RMLA, Max helps foster relationships between the Academy, community leaders, businesses, and civic organizations, creating meaningful opportunities for participants to connect, learn, and lead.
What are you waiting for?
Ready to make a difference in Huntington Beach? Join a community of leaders committed to learning, serving, and creating lasting impact. Apply today or connect with us to learn more about the Robert Mayer Leadership Academy.
Contact us
Have questions about the program, applications, or getting involved? We’d love to hear from you.
Robert Mayer Leadership Academy
A 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
EIN: 99-4317504
Partnership with
the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce
RMLA continues to work closely with the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce to strengthen our business community, support civic engagement, and develop future leaders. Our long-standing partnership allows both organizations to leverage their unique strengths while creating opportunities that benefit Huntington Beach as a whole. We’re grateful for the Chamber’s continued collaboration and support as we work together to invest in the future of our community.
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