AASCU Edge
Summer Sessions: Preparing the Next Generation of Higher Education Leaders
AASCU leadership development programs build skills, networks, and confidence for what’s ahead.
The future of higher education depends on strong leaders who can navigate complexity, embrace change, and keep students at the center of their work.
As regional public universities respond to evolving student needs, financial pressures, workforce demands, technological advancements, and changing public expectations, leaders at every level need the skills and perspectives to guide their institutions forward.
Through a range of leadership development programs, AASCU helps prepare current and aspiring higher education leaders for the opportunities and challenges ahead. Leadership development has been a key piece of AASCU’s mission for decades, bringing nearly 300 participants together each year. Professionals from across the country strengthen their leadership capacity, build lasting networks, and gain practical insight from experienced leaders.
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This summer, five AASCU leadership development programs convened participants for immersive learning experiences focused on developing the next generation of campus leaders: the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP), Becoming a Provost Academy (BAPA), Executive Leadership Academy (ELA), Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI), and New Presidents Academy (NPA).
Emerging Leaders Program Builds the Foundation for Future Leadership
ELP supports mid- to senior-level academic and administrative professionals who are exploring opportunities to advance into higher-level leadership roles. The program helps participants develop the skills, mindset, and institutional perspective needed to lead initiatives and make a greater impact on their campuses.
During the June convening, participants focused on developing a personal leadership philosophy, understanding their strengths, and aligning their values with their approach to leadership. Sessions explored topics including accountability, communication, project management, and navigating organizational change.
Through a yearlong campus project, participants will continue applying these lessons in practice while receiving support from peers and mentors who understand the landscape of higher education leadership.
Executive Leadership Academy Prepares Senior Leaders for Executive Roles
ELA is designed for those who are interested in becoming college or university presidents or pursuing other senior executive positions. The program helps participants develop the broad institutional understanding required of today’s leaders.
The role of a president has expanded significantly, requiring knowledge of areas across the institution—from enrollment and finance to student affairs, fundraising, government relations, and crisis communications. During the June program, participants explored the responsibilities of executive leadership through sessions on governance, institutional strategy, leadership strengths, career pathways, and the realities of the presidency.
In partnership with the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI) and the Council of Independent Colleges, ELA provides participants with opportunities to learn from experienced leaders, strengthen their professional networks, and prepare for the next stage of their careers.
Becoming a Provost Academy Prepares Future Chief Academic Officers
BAPA focuses on the distinctive leadership responsibilities of the provost or chief academic officer. Designed for experienced deans, assistant and associate provosts, and other academic affairs leaders, the program provides preparation for one of the most complex roles in higher education.
Today’s provosts sit at the intersection of many institutional priorities, including academic quality, faculty leadership, student success, accreditation, strategic planning, and resource stewardship. During the June convening, participants examined the evolving role of the provost and discussed how academic leaders can navigate challenges such as changing institutional models, emerging technologies, and conversations around academic freedom and expression.
“We are delighted to welcome such a talented group of leaders to the program. We look forward to working with them this year and to watching as they move forward to continue to strengthen higher education,” said Javier Cevallos, AALI president.
Co-sponsored by AASCU and AALI, this program helps participants expand their institutional perspective, strengthen their leadership approach, and build connections with peers who are preparing for similar roles.
Millennium Leadership Initiative Advances Future College Presidents/Chancellors
MLI prepares senior-level leaders from all backgrounds who aspire to become college and university presidents or chancellors. Established in 1999 under the leadership of AASCU’s African American presidents, MLI helps participants develop the skills, mindset, and relationships needed to navigate and succeed in the presidency. Since its founding, MLI has equipped 803 graduates to serve in more than 200 college and university presidencies.
The June opening institute provided participants with a candid look at the opportunities and challenges of presidential leadership. Discussions focused on building trust, communicating with credibility, strengthening relationships with campus and community stakeholders, understanding external pressures, and leading with courage, compassion, and character.
Through mentorship, executive coaching, leadership assessments, and a network of experienced presidents and peers, MLI participants gain the tools and support needed to envision and prepare for their own leadership journeys.
New Presidents Academy Equips First-Time Presidents to Thrive
NPA offers new presidents a structured, strategic immersion into the realities of modern leadership while fostering connections with peers and seasoned executives who have led through transformation.
During the four-day programming, participants gained practical knowledge and skills across the most critical areas of a new presidency, including working effectively with boards and system leaders, leading institutional change, and crisis management.
These new presidents will continue to work closely with NPA faculty and mentors as they navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Preparing Leaders to Serve Students, Campuses, and Communities
While each program serves leaders at different stages of their careers, AASCU’s leadership development programs share a common goal: preparing leaders who can advance student success, drive institutional transformation, and serve their communities.
By investing in leaders across the higher education leadership continuum—from emerging professionals to provosts and presidents—AASCU helps ensure colleges and universities have the vision, expertise, resilience, and capacity needed to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
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