UF Leadership Development Programs—Call for Applications

Paula Varnes Fussell, Vice President for Human Resource Services

We are pleased to announce a call for applications for the UF Academy and Advanced Leadership for Academics and Professionals. Both of these highly regarded leadership development programs will begin in the fall of 2015, running through May 2016. Applications are being accepted now through April 30, 2015. Because leadership development is essential to the effective management of a university, I hope you will encourage individuals from your respective areas to apply for one of the programs.

UF Academy

Entering its 13th year, the UF Academy was created for emerging leaders at our university. Designed for both exempt staff employees (up to and including the director level) and faculty, the UF Academy prepares employees for higher-level responsibilities at the University of Florida. The program meets over the course of the year, with an average monthly time commitment ranging from 4 to 12 hours. There is no fee for this program.

Advanced Leadership for Academics and Professionals

Developed in cooperation with UF’s Office of the Provost and Faculty Senate, the Advanced Leadership for Academics and Professionals program is intended for faculty and professionals in leadership positions as a way to support their ongoing development. Participants meet six times, for 1.5 to 2 days each—along with two shorter evening sessions—over the course of the academic year. The 2015-2016 schedule is available at http://hr.ufl.edu/learn-grow/leadership-development/advanced-leadership-for-academics-and-professionals/. The program includes two tracks—one for academic leaders and the other for professionals (assistant director and above). Approximately 20 faculty and professionals (10 per track) are selected each year via a competitive application process. There is a $1,000 fee for this program. All materials—including a 360-degree evaluation pre- and post-program, facilitation fees and meals—are included, and no additional travel is necessary for those who work in Gainesville.

These programs represent an invaluable opportunity for professional development, including exposure to UF’s highest levels of administration. Given the array of challenges within a university environment, leadership development is increasingly essential as we provide our current and future leaders with the tools needed to support the institution. Please join us in encouraging appropriate leaders in your area to submit applications for the UF Academy or Advanced Leadership for Academics and Professionals programs.

For more information, please contact UF Training and Organizational Development at training@ufl.edu or visit www.hr.ufl.edu/training/leadership.