PDC now accepting applicants for New Leader Institute

Applications are now open for the inaugural New Leader Institute of ‘24-25. The Professional Development Center (PDC) welcomes applications from staff who are first-time managers or supervisors and new to a formalized leadership position in their careers. 

Participants will learn the difference between managing and leading and will explore six key areas they must understand to be successful in their new leadership positions.  

Individuals who meet the following requirements may self-nominate or be nominated by a division/department leader.

Nominees considered for this program:

• Must be someone who is brand new to a formalized leadership or supervisor position; the formalized leadership or supervisor position is the first time this person has ever held such a position in their career
• Must be anywhere from 0-24 months in that new leader position. Or, it is confirmed and known that they will be promoted into such a position before December 31, 2024
• Must be actively managing at least one person (preferably more) and is responsible for the performance, goals, work, etc., of those direct reports
• Must have their own manager or supervisor be fully supportive of the person’s time and development, confirm they can attend all sessions, and will play an active role throughout the program in meeting with them and checking in with them at certain specific times during the program (2-3 specific time points)
• Will be committed to attending all the dates of the program and working with their colleagues in the program before, during, and after each session throughout the program

The New Leader Institute will convene once a month for nine months. Each session will take place in person on campus (there is no virtual option) from Noon to 4:30 p.m. and will include lunch. The dates are as follows.

– Friday, September 20

– Thursday, October 24

– Friday, November 22

– Friday, December 20

– Friday, January 31

– Friday, February 28

– Friday, March 28

– Friday, April 18

– Friday, May 30 – Capstone presentation and graduation

Applications and questions can be submitted by emailing Director of Learning and Development Bill Gentry at gentrywa@wfu.edu with a statement of interest. Applications are due by August 26.