UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Nominations are open now for Penn State's new Excellence in Academic Leadership (EAL) program, which is designed to empower experienced academic unit heads with the tools, strategies and insights needed to navigate the complexities of higher education leadership.
Sponsored by the Office of Faculty Affairs, EAL is specifically tailored for experienced department heads, division heads, school directors and Division of Academic Affairs (DAA) leaders at Commonwealth Campuses. The program will begin on Jan. 10, 2025, with an inaugural session from 2 to 4:30 p.m.
Eligible participants must have two or more years of experience in their current roles and be selected based on recommendations by their dean or chancellor. The nomination deadline is Dec. 13, 2024. To participate, selected academic leaders must be available for two Friday afternoons each month. For exact dates and more information, visit the EAL program webpage. Those interested in participating should contact their dean or chancellor to express interest.
Program session highlights
The EAL program spans several sessions, each offering in-depth exploration of key leadership themes:
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“Leadership from Within” focuses on personal energy management, time leadership, goal setting, and enhancing self-awareness through resources like the CliftonStrengths assessment.
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“Leadership through Connection” explores conflict competency, fostering psychological safety, building trust, and managing diverse teams.
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“Leading from the Middle” covers strategic planning, principles of change management, and effective communication of vision and mission.
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“Leadership in Action” examines budgeting resources, equitable meeting practices, and best practices for faculty and staff performance reviews.
The program also includes “Critical Friends” sessions, fostering reflective practice, collegial dialogue and collaborative problem-solving among academic leaders. Through structured discussions, participants receive and provide constructive feedback to navigate challenges, rethink leadership strategies ,and enhance their professional growth in a supportive environment.
An in-person workshop will conclude the program, focusing on aligning personal and professional goals, strategic goal-sharing and resource planning.
“The Excellence in Academic Leadership program is a pivotal initiative aimed at nurturing and advancing the capabilities of our academic leaders,” said Ann Clements, associate vice provost for Faculty Affairs. “By providing a structured environment for reflection, skill development and peer support, we are committed to supporting our academic unit heads as they continue their leadership journeys and contribute to the University’s mission.”
Questions can be directed to Clements at acc13@psu.edu.