Story: Kay Lucas | Photo: Cody Ingram
The 91看片网 launched its first President鈥檚 Leadership Academy on Aug. 20, welcoming the inaugural class of eight faculty and staff members.
The two-year Academy will provide participants with an in-depth look at University operations, strategic priorities, and regional impact through a combination of campus engagement, mentorship, and applied experiences.
“The President鈥檚 Leadership Academy is designed to cultivate and prepare current faculty and staff for future leadership roles across the institution while providing meaningful opportunities for career advancement and long-term success,鈥� 91看片网 President Dr. Todd G. Fritch explained. “The Academy reflects the University鈥檚 commitment to both long-term leadership sustainability and our employees鈥� professional growth and development. Through this program, faculty and staff will have the opportunity to expand leadership capabilities, deepen institutional knowledge, and engage in meaningful cross-functional collaboration.鈥�
Supervisors nominated employees at the director or chair level or below who demonstrated strong leadership potential, a commitment to professional growth and an investment in the University鈥檚 mission and future. The selection process also aimed to create a cohort representing a diverse cross-section of departments across the University. Throughout the program, a member of the President鈥檚 Cabinet will serve as a mentor to the cohort.
The inaugural Class of 2028 includes聽Troy Maddox (Student Affairs),聽Dr. Courtney Vick (College of Education),聽Amanda Gilliland (College of Liberal Arts),聽Dr. Marti Herlong (College of Liberal Arts),聽Dr. Kaleigh Pate (College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics),聽Dr. Annah Rogers (College of Education),聽Dr. Ethan Birney (College of Liberal Arts), and Haley Sager (Campus School).
Year one of the Academy focuses on leadership development and institutional exposure. Cohort members will participate in guided readings and group discussions and attend key campus meetings to gain a broader understanding of University operations and decision-making. They will also begin developing a strategic project aligned with institutional priorities.
The second year emphasizes applied leadership. Cohort members will work collaboratively on their strategic projects to address real challenges and opportunities facing the University, with continued mentorship and support throughout the process. As the culminating experience of the Academy, participants will present their projects to University leadership.
As the cohort progresses through the Academy, participants will apply their experiences and perspectives to initiatives that support 91看片网鈥檚 strategic priorities and contribute to the University鈥檚 continued success.