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Leaders in Enrollment Advancing Diversity (LEAD)

The ASCEND Program prepares mid-career professionals with the competencies to ascend to an executive role within enrollment management leadership. The nine-month intensive yet immersive program seeks to:

  • Provide crucial Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) professional development to advance participants' career trajectories and prepare them for future senior-level leadership opportunities.

  • Cultivate a "deep bench" of talented, motivated SEM leaders from diverse backgrounds for AACRAO and state/regional associations, training the next generation of enrollment management executives.

  • Accelerate leadership development for individuals from underrepresented groups by combining theoretical insights with practical application through executive coaching. This approach prepares participants to navigate the complex landscape of enrollment management leadership, fostering their readiness for future executive roles in the field.


AACRAO ASCEND Leadership Development Program Participation Requirements
There are five critical requirements for completing the ASCEND Leadership Development Program:

  1. Meeting regularly with your coach
  2. Actively contribute to the group capstone strategic enrollment management plan project, synthesizing program learnings and demonstrating AACRAO and SEM competencies.
  3. Complete at least 90% of the required micro-courses that provide cross-functional fluency.
  4. Maintain attendance with no more than three absences from the interactive workshops vital for knowledge building.
  5. Providing feedback through the engagement of course surveys, which assess your progression and satisfaction with the program.

Application Period Closed