Elevate Your Leadership at Utah State University

Are you ready to take the next step in your academic career? The President's Leadership Academy (PLA) at Utah State University is your pathway to mastering higher education administration. Our comprehensive program is specifically designed to prepare USU faculty members for successful administrative roles, providing the skills and knowledge necessary to excel as department heads, associate deans, and beyond.

Why the PLA?

At USU, we recognize a critical gap in professional development for faculty transitioning into administrative positions. Without structured training, new administrators often face steep learning curves as they navigate unfamiliar territories in developing a leadership style, understanding university operations, and managing interpersonal relations. The PLA bridges this gap, ensuring you are well-equipped to lead with confidence.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the PLA, you will know how to:

Identify and apply various leadership styles.
Cultivate a culture of belonging within your department or administrative unit.
Navigate political dynamics in higher education.
Make informed financial decisions using different funding models.
Develop effective fundraising and alumni relations strategies.
Understand the legal landscape of higher education.
Implement self-care practices for yourself and your team.
Prepare for and manage crises effectively.
Design and evaluate academic programs.
Conduct inclusive and effective search processes.

Program Highlights

Monthly Meetings

Participants will meet for monthly meetings to discuss insights, share experiences, and build a supportive network of future leaders. Half of the meetings will take place in person, and the other half will be held on Zoom.

PLA sessions will focus on the following topics:

Leadership Styles in Higher Education
Fostering a Culture of Belonging
Leading in a Politically Charged Environment
Funding Models and Decision-Making
Fundraising and Alumni Relations
The Legal Terrain of Higher Education
Self-Care and Rejuvenation
Crisis Management
Academic Program Development
The Search Process

Structured Learning Modules

Delivered through Canvas, the PLA features interactive learning modules on each of the key topics covered in the program.

Learning Circles

Participants will sign up for two learning circles, with reading options that include the following:

Barker, Simon R. Preventing Crises at Your University

How Colleges Use Data

How to Chair a Department

The New Global Humanities

Justice, George. How to Be a Dean.

“Whatever It Is, I’m Against It”: Resistance to Change in Higher Education

Join the PLA Today

The President's Leadership Academy is more than a professional development program—it's a commitment to excellence in leadership. Equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to make a meaningful impact at Utah State University.

Each Dean nominates faculty members to be fellows in the President's Leadership Academy. If you are interested in being a fellow, you can contact your College’s Dean to inquire about being nominated.

We hope you can start your journey toward becoming a dynamic, informed, and compassionate leader in higher education. Together, we can shape the future of USU and foster an environment of excellence and inclusivity throughout the university.

For more information about the PLA, contact Dr. Chris Babits at chris.babits@usu.edu.