Missouri Community College Association wraps up 2023/2024 Leadership Academy program

Jefferson City, MO (May 8, 2024) -  Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) has concluded the latest cohort of its Leadership Academy.

The MCCA Leadership Academy, which spans the academic year from fall to spring, serves as a platform for developing leadership skills within Missouri's community colleges. Each participating college sends at least one employee in a leadership role to improve the internal pipeline of community college officials in the state.

Key skills developed by participants during the program include a deeper understanding of the state's educational landscape, the nuances of the community college sector and the intricacies of higher education leadership.

Participants gained leadership skills through a variety of experiences. This included visits to three campuses across the state and an informative session held at the Missouri State Capitol. These sessions were carefully crafted to focus on the leadership competencies outlined by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).

Brian Millner, president and CEO of MCCA, shared that the academy has been an incredible opportunity for upcoming leaders from around the state to meet one another and discuss their individual and collective experiences, challenges and accomplishments.

“The academy has allowed these participants to create a unique network of peers and mentors that will help support them in their future careers,” said Millner. “It also provides them with the tools and knowledge to excel in their roles and become successful leaders.”

Reflecting on her experience, Sarah Leassner, vice president of student development at East Central College, shared, "The MCCA Leadership Academy was the best professional development experience of my career. What made it so exceptional was the thought and energy the coordinators put into the planning and implementation of the program and the professionals that were sitting around the table as participants."

Each session was designed for professional growth, helping the academy members understand Missouri community colleges' importance, impact and reach. The participants came from all levels and divisions throughout the 12 colleges.

“It was refreshing to see all of the different perspectives that our group brought to the table,” said Leassner. “These colleagues will be the ones I turn to for the rest of my career to toss around ideas, glean insights and ask for support. This experience was exactly what I needed, personally and professionally.”

A new cohort of the MCCA Leadership Academy will begin later this year. Interested participants are encouraged to contact their college's president or chancellor about the selection process.

For more information about the MCCA Leadership Academy and other initiatives, visit https://www.missouricolleges.org/