By Briana Roades, Associate Director, UF Online Enrollment Services at the University of Florida
The Pervasive Leadership Myth
The belief that leaders are born with innate qualities, such as charisma or confidence, is one of the most pervasive leadership myths. Warren Bennis, often called "The Father of Leadership," challenged this idea, arguing that leadership is not a genetic trait but a skill to be developed. Early leadership theories suggest that innate characteristics set leaders apart, but this perspective overlooks the power of growth and intentional training. Conversely, modern theories emphasize that effective leaders are shaped by their experiences, commitment to learning, and dedication to personal growth. This philosophy is at the heart of programs like the AACRAO ASCEND Leadership Development Program, which focuses on developing leaders in higher education, particularly in Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM).
The AACRAO ASCEND program is a nine-month journey designed to enhance participants' knowledge, confidence, and leadership abilities. Through virtual education sessions, one-on-one coaching, and collaborative projects, participants apply what they learn in real-world contexts. From the first meeting, we explored change management and leadership theory before transitioning to the core concepts of SEM and frameworks for SEM planning. In the months ahead, we will further explore environmental scanning, enrollment management's role in retention and student success, recruitment strategies, financial aid, registrar operations, and leadership within an admissions office.
My Experience in the Program
Upon receiving the news of my acceptance into Cohort 5 of the AACRAO ASCEND program, I felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty, accompanied by the familiar weight of imposter syndrome. Questions like, "Am I ready for this?" and "Will I succeed?" echoed in my mind. However, my eagerness to challenge myself and fully embrace the experience outweighed my initial doubts. Soon after starting the program and connecting with my peers, it became clear that many other talented professionals shared these same feelings. It was eye-opening to realize that even those who excel in their fields also experience self-doubt. This common experience highlighted how widespread imposter syndrome is, even among accomplished leaders. To overcome these feelings, I committed to fully immersing myself in the program—absorbing as much knowledge as possible, building lasting relationships with my peers, and valuing the guidance, feedback, and expertise of the program's faculty and my assigned coaches.
To date, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive. The program's approach is engaging, collaborative, and experiential in nature. The coaches, faculty, and program coordinators are not only knowledgeable but also incredibly supportive. Each virtual session is an opportunity to dive deeper into critical concepts, share insights, and learn from one another's experiences.
One of the unique aspects of AACRAO ASCEND is the chance to work with professionals from across the country on developing a SEM plan. This collaborative approach will be invaluable in expanding my understanding of different institutional contexts and approaches to enrollment management.
Looking Ahead
Participating in AACRAO ASCEND has already been transformative – expanding my knowledge, boosting my confidence, and sharpening my leadership skills. It has provided an opportunity to grow alongside some of the best in the field, learn from their experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of higher education. As the journey continues, I look forward to further developing my understanding of SEM and strengthening the leadership qualities necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of higher education.