ASCEND is an accelerated nine-month leadership development program that catapults mid-career professionals from historically excluded backgrounds into strategic executive roles within enrollment management. It utilizes the SEM core concepts to provide experiential, cohort-based learning that strengthens and accelerates leadership competencies.
Yes.
ASCEND is perfect for any mid-career professional with 5-8 years of professional experience who desires to ascend to a more senior leadership position within higher education within 12-18 months. Participants should have the support of their institutional leadership to participate and ensure engagement in the complete program requirements.
Participants commit to attending two AACRAO Conferences - Strategic Enrollment Management and the Annual Meeting, in person and weekly 2-hour virtual classroom sessions three times per month on Thursday evenings from 6:30-8:30 pm (Eastern Standard Time). Expect to dedicate 3-5 hours per week to the ASCEND Leadership Development Program.
To view meeting details, click here.
The curriculum is grounded in the core concepts of strategic enrollment management (SEM). Through the introductory SEM framework, scholars engage in presentations, discussions, and cohort-based group activities. Scholars will combine mid-career practical knowledge with theory to facilitate a team-based project that catapults collaborative strategy and the strengths required for executive-level leadership roles.
Ten participants are selected annually by a review panel. The application process is designed to understand applicants' philosophy, goals, leadership aspirations, and career background. We conduct a holistic review to assess the probability of success and fit within the diverse cohort. Your authentic responses also help with coach matching. Thoughtful reflection before applying is encouraged to showcase how you'll thrive in ASCEND.
Top SEM leaders from AACRAO serve as coaches and facilitate the ASCEND sessions. Occasionally, we will have industry guest experts.
Scholars are required to meet once a month with their ASCEND coach using a mutually agreed-upon platform that permits engagement. This ensures consistent support and guidance throughout the program.
Coaches provide guidance, feedback, and networking opportunities aligned with scholars' career goals. They review scholars' strengths and applications to tailor support. Scholars drive the relationship, communicating regularly and seeking advice. Both parties commit to open, honest communication while maintaining confidentiality. Coaches aim to motivate, inspire, and enhance scholars' professional development.
Participants are encouraged to leverage their ASCEND network, develop a plan for advanced engagement within AACRAO for continued leadership development, or consider enrolling in the SEM-EP Certification—many graduates ascend into Executive Director, Registrar, AVP and VP roles.
No, transfers/deferments are not allowed.
Participants may withdraw from the ASCEND Leadership Development program before the program begins on Sunday, July 14, 2024, and receive a full refund minus a 10% processing fee. After this date, no refunds will be provided.
In rare cases, AACRAO may need to withdraw a participant due to lack of progress, unprofessional conduct, three or more unexcused absences, unresponsive to ascend coaches, coordinator, or other staff members, or any other reason that violates AACRAO’s policies and core values. In such cases, the participant will not be eligible for a refund.
Visit the ASCEND program site www.aacrao.org/ascend for application dates and more information. You may also contact the ASCEND program office directly via ascend@aacrao.org
Unfortunately, we do not offer scholarships at this time. The program fee has been heavily discounted from its value of $6500+ to support prospective participants' affordable engagement. If you need assistance justifying your participation or costs, access our ASCEND Justification Letter . Modify as necessary.
We do not offer a payment plan. To solidify participation, payment must be made in full by the due date.