• We emphasize and infuse themes of democracy, diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and social justice throughout the program offerings.
• We facilitate dialogues about our collective commitment to advancing social and economic mobility for students of all backgrounds.
• We are committed to creating a supportive, engaging, and customized learning environment built on cohort trust, confidentiality, and safety.
• MLI graduates are poised to offer distinctive leadership to a higher education industry wherein it is all too rare.

• The MLI experience allows participants to determine if the presidency is a realistic goal and affords them the opportunity to deeply probe their true leadership desire and fitness.
• The MLI emphasis on developing skill sets, mindsets, and networks is valuable even for those who decide not to pursue the position of college or university president or chancellor. 
• MLI reinforces the vital role that diversity plays in the institutional mission and helps diversify the executive team on campuses.

• The 2025-2026 MLI cohort will convene between June 2025 and March 2026.
• The program is delivered in a blended format with 2 in-person and up to 7 virtual engagements.
• The program will feature:
  • An opening in-person institute at AASCU’s Washington, D.C., office (June 11-14, 2025)
  • Up to 7 interactive 60- to 120-minute virtual sessions – select Tuesdays between 3 and 5 p.m. ET between August 2025 and March 2026 (exact dates TBA)
  • A closing in-person seminar at AASCU’s Washington, D.C., office (March 11-13, 2026)
  • Mentoring with current AASCU presidents and chancellors

(In-person programming will not be livestreamed or recorded. Attendance at all in-person and virtual programming is expected.)

• Participants apply to the MLI program and are admitted through a rigorous selection process administered by a selection committee composed of presidents and chancellors. Successful applicants will demonstrate the following: 
  • Leadership experience necessary to achieve a presidency or chancellorship in higher education
  • A terminal degree, significant experience as a senior academic executive, OR equivalent experience outside the academy in government or the private sector 
  • Endorsement by their president or chancellor
  • The cohort size ranges from 25 to 30 participants.

• A complete application for MLI includes the following:
  • Endorsement from the president/chancellor from your home institution
  • Clear and concise summary of your personal and professional development goals
  • Commitment to 100% participation at in- person and virtual programming

2025 Registration Fees

• For applicants from AASCU plus MLI member institutions: $5,500
• For applicants from AASCU member institutions: $6,500
• For applicants from non-member institutions: $7,500
• The registration fee covers program administration, meals during the in-person seminars, and all materials. Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation in Washington, D.C.
• Upon acceptance to MLI, participants must register no later than April 14, 2025.

Scholarships

• Please note that limited scholarships will be made available to accepted applicants.

Cancellation Policy

• Cancellation requests received on or after May 2, 2025 are NOT eligible for a refund.
• If you need to cancel after May 2, please email leadershipdevelopment@aascu.org to explore if you are eligible for a deferral to next year’s cohort.