About the Strategic Leader Program

Faculty and professional staff who aspire to lead need opportunities to discuss issues facing higher education and delve more deeply into the operations of the institution while also developing leadership skills. Given both the rapid changes facing institutions of higher education and the increase in retirements anticipated over the next half-decade, we must think strategically about the development of our university leaders. The UofSC Aiken Strategic Leader Program (SLP) is designed for faculty, staff, department chairs, or deans who are interested in learning more about higher education and preparing for leadership roles. For those currently in leadership positions or those considering line-leadership positions in the future, the SLP will provide an opportunity to explore critical issues in higher education, network with peers across the university, and develop an enhanced understanding of the university as a dynamic institution existing in a complex landscape.

The USC Aiken Strategic Leader Program is sponsored and developed by the Provost to address the following objectives:

• Enhance the leadership skills and abilities of participants with the recognition that informed leadership is critical to the university’s long-term success;
• Facilitate dialogue and exchange of ideas between and among members of our campus community;
• Amplify each individual’s opportunity to explore their leadership potential and expand knowledge of how universities work;
• Explore issues on state and national initiatives and trends in higher education and enhance a shared understanding of those issues and the avenues open to the university to achieve the best possible future.

Individuals who wish to participate in USC Aiken’s Strategic Leader Program will commit to meeting once a month, beginning in January and ending in May. Speakers will explore subjects associated with institutional funding, the role of enterprise risk management, challenges and opportunities of operating in a system, leadership assessment, faculty and staff trends, and student expectations and issues, among other topics. Applications should be submitted via the form below by January 10th. The review committee will provide recommendations to the provost, who will notify applicants. Applicants must submit a 250-word statement of interest and discuss their interest with their direct supervisor. The Office of the Provost will solicit a recommendation from the direct supervisor. The class is limited in size to allow for greater discussion and personal interaction. The program is at no cost to selected participants.

Spring 2023 Meeting Times

Thursday, February 2, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 16, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 2, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 16, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 30, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.