Announcing the 2026–27 Cohort of the Executive Leadership Academy
The higher education sector continues to face complex challenges, from shifting enrollment patterns and financial pressures to evolving expectations around student success and institutional sustainability. In this environment, preparing the next generation of senior leaders is more critical than ever. On June 15, 2026, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), in partnership with the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) and the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI), announced the selection of 36 accomplished administrators for the 2026–27 Executive Leadership Academy (ELA).
This prestigious yearlong program equips experienced cabinet-level leaders with the strategic skills, mentorship, and networks necessary to advance into presidencies and other top executive roles. The cohort represents a diverse cross-section of institutions, underscoring a commitment to broadening the leadership pipeline across public and independent colleges and universities nationwide.
Understanding the Executive Leadership Academy Program
The Executive Leadership Academy is a collaborative initiative designed specifically for senior administrators who aspire to presidential or chancellor positions. Launched in 2009, the program has become a cornerstone of leadership development in U.S. higher education. Participants engage in intensive seminars, individualized professional development plans, executive coaching, and ongoing mentorship from sitting presidents.
Core components include two in-person seminars in Washington, D.C., peer-led webinars, and a customized Professional Experience Plan that addresses gaps in expertise such as crisis communications, strategic planning, fundraising, and regulatory affairs. The curriculum emphasizes practical, forward-looking skills tailored to today’s dynamic campus environments.
Eligibility focuses on individuals currently serving in cabinet-level roles. Approximately 35 to 36 participants are selected annually, split evenly between AASCU member institutions and CIC member institutions. Nominations must come directly from the president or chancellor to whom the nominee reports, ensuring institutional support for the candidate’s development.
The Rigorous Selection Process for the 2026–27 Cohort
Selection for the ELA is highly competitive. Applications require a curriculum vitae, a formal letter of nomination from the president, and a personal statement outlining the candidate’s interest in and readiness for senior leadership. Review committees at AASCU and CIC evaluate submissions based on professional achievements, leadership potential, institutional diversity goals, and alignment with the program’s objectives.
Preference is given to candidates from member institutions, with an emphasis on building cohorts that reflect the breadth of U.S. higher education. Fellowships supported by AALI and the Mellon Foundation help ensure broad participation from varied backgrounds.
The 2026–27 cohort was finalized following the spring application cycle, with notifications issued in early June. The program officially opened with its first seminar on June 15–16, 2026, in the nation’s capital.
Meet the 2026–27 Executive Leadership Academy Participants
The selected leaders bring a wealth of experience from across the country. Here is the full list of the 2026–27 cohort:
Participants Selected by AASCU
- Guy-Alain Amoussou, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Bowie State University (MD)
- Travis Chambers, Fitchburg State University (MA)
- Nathan Cochran, Harris-Stowe State University (MO)
- Minnette Ellis, University of North Alabama
- Karen Ferrer-Muniz, University of Massachusetts Boston
- Justin Gammage, California State University, Dominguez Hills
- Keith Humphrey, University of Northern Colorado
- Lara Luetkehans, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
- Michael Mancini, Thomas Edison State University (NJ)
- Chuck McKinnon, Fayetteville State University (NC)
- Jay Neal, University of Houston Sugar Land
- Christine Reed Davis, University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Matthew Robison, Georgia Gwinnett College
- Brian Selmeski, Fairmont State University (WV)
- Deborah Thien, California State University, Bakersfield
- Sarah Villarreal, California State University, San Marcos
- Melissa Wargo, Western Carolina University (NC)
- Shoshana Zeisman-Pereyo, Portland State University (OR)
Participants Selected by CIC
- Kimberly Battle-Walters Denu, Westmont College (CA)
- Stephanie Cosner, Simmons University (MA)
- Chris Boniforti, Lynn University (FL)
- Mollie Cecere, Carlow University (PA)
- Stephannie DeLong, Southwestern College (KS)
- James Gaddy, Albright College (PA)
- Norman Golar, Stillman College (AL)
- Meredith Green, Furman University (SC)
- Louis Guard, Hobart and William Smith Colleges (NY)
- Andrew Kerkhoff, University of Puget Sound (WA)
- Todd McDorman, Wabash College (IN)
- Heather Moore Roberson, Allegheny College (PA)
- James Pillar, Monmouth University (NJ)
- Ahmed Radwan, University of Detroit Mercy (MI)
- Alexandra Socarides, Emerson College (MA)
- Ted Song, John Brown University (AR)
- Tonya Wagner, Viterbo University (WI)
- Joseph Wiegand, Reinhardt University (GA)
This group spans public regional universities, private liberal arts colleges, and specialized institutions, ensuring rich peer learning opportunities.
Why Leadership Development Matters in Today’s Higher Education Landscape
University presidents and senior executives today must navigate an unprecedented array of responsibilities. Beyond traditional academic oversight, they handle enrollment management, endowment stewardship, government relations, alumni engagement, athletics oversight, marketing strategies, and increasingly complex issues around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Programs like the ELA address these multifaceted demands by providing targeted training in areas such as crisis communications, financial oversight, and strategic planning. Alumni frequently credit the experience with accelerating their career trajectories and expanding their professional networks.
Perspectives from Program Organizers and Past Participants
AASCU President and CEO Charles L. Welch highlighted the program’s timeliness: “At a time of significant change across the higher education landscape, programs like ELA play a critical role in supporting and preparing the next generation of institutional leaders.”
CIC President Marjorie Hass emphasized the value for independent colleges: “ELA connects growth-minded professionals with the industry insights, peer networks, and strategic development they need to lead confidently through higher education’s evolving challenges.”
Past participants have described the academy as transformative. One alum noted the supportive community and focus on concrete skills, while another praised the honest conversations with experienced presidents and the applicability of case studies to real-world campus issues.
Long-Term Impact and Alumni Success Stories
Since its inception, the Executive Leadership Academy has built a robust pipeline of higher education executives. Many graduates have advanced to presidencies at institutions across the United States. The program’s emphasis on mentorship and peer collaboration helps participants develop the resilience and adaptability required for top leadership roles.
By investing in diverse candidates, ELA contributes to more representative leadership teams that better reflect the students and communities served by American colleges and universities.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Executive Leadership Preparation
As higher education continues to evolve, initiatives like the ELA will remain essential. The 2026–27 cohort will conclude with a final seminar in June 2027, after which participants will join a growing network of alumni prepared to lead institutions through ongoing transformation.
Applications for future cohorts typically reopen in November, with deadlines in early spring. Presidents and chancellors interested in nominating rising leaders are encouraged to visit the official program pages for details.
Resources for Aspiring Higher Education Leaders
Professionals seeking to advance their careers in university administration can explore additional development opportunities through AASCU, CIC, and related organizations. Building a strong track record in cabinet-level roles, pursuing targeted professional development, and cultivating mentorship relationships are key steps toward executive positions.
