AAC&U New Leadership Academy Fellows Program
AAC&U New Leadership Academy Fellows Program supports higher education and related-sector professionals through leadership development to advance institutional change, learning, and student success.
Funder: Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U)
Due Dates: June 1, 2027 (Applications open) | August 19, 2027 (Early bird application) | September 1, 2027 (Nomination) | September 16, 2027 (Regular application) | October 18, 2027 (Notification) | January 3, 2028 (Program begins) | June 4–9, 2028 (Summer institute) | June 30, 2028 (Program concludes)
Funding Amounts: Six-month program fees: $6,250–$7,500; need-based partial scholarships available only to early bird applicants
Summary: AAC&U’s New Leadership Academy develops mid- to senior-level professionals’ leadership skills to advance institutional change and student success.
Key Information: Fellows must participate in all program components, including the in-person summer institute in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Description
The New Leadership Academy Fellows Program is AAC&U’s flagship leadership development offering for mid- to senior-level professionals across higher education and related sectors. It frames leadership as an opportunity to advance value-driven institutional change through an asset-based, growth-oriented approach benefiting students, faculty, staff, and institutions. The program emphasizes decision-making in complex environments, navigating change, encouraging others to lead, and supporting learning and student success.
The six-month cohort experience combines immersive, real-world case studies, small-group facilitation, peer dialogue, and individualized coaching and mentorship from experienced leaders. Virtual, synchronous, and asynchronous engagement culminates in an in-person summer institute in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Fellows practice leading across differences, build on campus success strategies grounded in research and practice, and develop a national network of colleagues and collaborators. A specialized health sciences track is available.
