Purpose and Vision
The Texas Council of Chief Academic Officers (TCCAO) will launch the Academic Executive Leadership Program, a statewide initiative designed to strengthen the pipeline of senior academic leaders preparing for Chief Academic Officer roles. Building on the success of the Texas Academic Leadership Academy (TALA), this program offers immersive, cross-institutional experiences that combine leadership development, mentorship, and applied learning.
Program Goals
- Develop executive-level competencies among senior academic leaders.
- Foster collaboration and networking across Texas institutions.
- Provide practical insight into institutional leadership through shadowing and project-based learning.
- Support succession planning and retention strategies for Texas higher education.
Target Participants
Senior academic leaders (e.g., deans, associate provosts) who are direct report to or one level removed from Chief Academic Officer at TCCAO member institutions. Participants must be nominated by their Chief Academic Officer and supported for time and travel.
Program Components
- Leadership Development Workshops: Cohort-based sessions led by Chief Academic Officers and scheduled in alignment with TCCAO quarterly meetings.
- Immersive Shadowing: 30–40 hours with Chief Academic Officers or senior leaders at a different institution(s), offering flexible formats (week-long immersion or multiple visits).
- Capstone Deliverable: Either a strategic mini-project co-developed with the host institution or a leadership reflection.
Timeline (Pilot Year)
- January–March 2026: Nominations and host interest declarations.
- April 2026: Selection and matching of participants and host institutions; initial workshop.
- June–December 2026: Shadowing experiences and workshops.
- January 2027: Brief presentations at TCCAO Winter Retreat.
Oversight and Sustainability
- Governance: Managed by a TCCAO ad hoc committee and a Program Coordinator.
- Funding: $50 increase in TCCAO membership dues to support program expenses (e.g. workshops, coordination, and recognition); evaluate after 2 years.
- Institutional Roles: Home institutions provide travel support; host institutions offer shadowing and mentorship.
Value Proposition
This program enhances leadership readiness, strengthens cross-institutional collaboration, and provides a strategic succession planning tool for Texas universities. Participation adds professional prestige for fellows and institutions while addressing statewide executive academic leadership development needs.
