about
Invest one year. Lead for a career.
The Staff Leadership Academy (SLA) is a selective, cohort-based professional development program that equips University of Nebraska-Lincoln staff members with the skills, relationships, and strategic thinking needed to lead at the organizational level.
What is the Staff Leadership Academy?
The Staff Leadership Academy (SLA) is a professional development initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of organizational leaders at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Over the course of one academic year, participants engage in monthly, full-day intensive sessions that blend expert facilitation with hands-on workshops and peer-to-peer learning. The curriculum focuses on high-level competencies—including strategic planning, change management, and design thinking—culminating in a real-world strategic project proposal presented to senior university leadership. By bridging the gap between individual unit management and systemic institutional leadership, the SLA empowers staff to build lasting campus networks and drive meaningful, innovative change across the university.
About the Program
WHO SHOULD APPLY
The SLA is designed for full-time University staff who are currently in a leadership role (assistant director or above) or who aspire to move into one. We seek participants with diverse backgrounds, a genuine motivation to grow, and a commitment to contributing to the University’s future.
THE SELECTION PROCESS
Applicants submit a written application covering professional background, motivations and goals, organizational insight, and openness to growth. A recommender’s endorsement and direct supervisor approval are required. Cohorts are selected to reflect a mix of departments and experience levels.
PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
- Program Dates: September 2026 – March 2027
- Cohort Size: 20-25 Participants
- Program Cost: No cost to participants
- Time Commitment: Approximately 10 hours per month
- Meeting Cadence: One Friday per month (full day)
- Eligibility: Full-time staff; assistant director or higher (or aspiring)
What You'll Learn
The Staff Leadership Academy (SLA) is more than just a training program; it is a rare and intentional investment in the University’s most valuable asset—you. Designed for those ready to bridge the gap between daily operations and institutional influence, the SLA provides the tools, the network, and the visibility needed to navigate a successful career trajectory at Nebraska. Through a blend of strategic skill-building and high-level mentorship, you will prepare to not only manage change but to lead it.
Strategic Planning Understand how institutions set direction, allocate resources, and measure success. Learn to think and act strategically within your role and across the University. | Change Management Lead teams and departments through transitions effectively. Explore models for navigating resistance, building buy-in, and sustaining change over time. |
Design Thinking & Innovation Apply human-centered design approaches to identify problems and develop creative solutions to real University challenges. | Organizational Communication Communicate with clarity, influence, and intention across levels and contexts. Understand how information flows in complex organizations. |
Data & Program Assessment Use data to inform decisions, evaluate programs, and make a compelling case for change. Build fluency with the metrics that matter in higher education. | Succession Planning Understand how organizations identify and develop future leaders. Explore your role in building the next generation of talent at Nebraska. |
6 Reasons to Apply
Build Core Leadership Skills:
Gain essential competencies in strategic planning, change management, innovation, and more — skills that translate directly to your role and career trajectory at Nebraska.
Access Coaching & Mentorship
Receive personalized mentoring from program coaches — giving you guidance that goes beyond the classroom.
Expand Your Campus Network:
Connect with peers across departments and units in ways that go beyond day-to-day work. These relationships become a lasting resource for collaboration and problem-solving.
Advance Your Career
Position yourself for future leadership roles at the University. The SLA strengthens Nebraska’s internal talent pipeline — and your place in it.
Lead Real Change
Tackle a real institutional challenge through creation of a strategic project proposal. This group or individual project will challenge you apply the skills built throughout the program.
Gain Visibility with Leadership
Present your strategic project to University Senior Leadership at your graduation ceremony.
Program Year At-a-Glance
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June 2026
Application Period Opens [APPLY NOW]
The application opens. Gather your materials — professional background summary, a statement of motivation and goals, organizational insight responses, and a recommender contact.
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July 2026
Application Deadline
Submit your application as well as your recommender form.
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August 2026
Cohort Selected & Applicants Notified
All applicants will be notified of their status. Selected participants will receive onboarding information and next steps for joining the cohort.
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September 11, 2026
Program Kicks Off
The first official program day. One Friday per month, full-day sessions continue through April, covering the six core curriculum topics with expert facilitators, workshops, and networking.
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Sept–Mar 2026–27
Monthly Program Days & Strategic Project Work
Continue monthly full-day sessions. Work individually or in small groups on your strategic project, with coaching and check-ins along the way.
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March 5, 2027
Graduation Ceremony & Strategic Project Presentations
Present your strategic project to peers, facilitators, and University senior leadership. Receive your completion certificate and celebrate alongside your cohort.
Dates, Topics and Presenters
GET IN TOUCH
Questions? We’re Here. Reach out to the program director with any questions about eligibility, the application process, or what to expect from the Staff Leadership Academy.
