New Leadership Academy Transitions from the University of Utah to AAC&U

Washington, DC— The American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) announced today the transition of the New Leadership Academy (NLA) from the University of Utah to AAC&U.

NLA Fellows Program is a nationally recognized leadership development program that prepares mid- to senior-level professionals in higher education and related fields with the knowledge, tools, and courage to lead effectively in complex environments. Rooted in leadership and organizational theories, NLA equips participants to drive transformative change while fostering inclusive and adaptive leadership strategies.

“AAC&U provides dedicated programming, resources, and events that help higher education leaders develop, find community, and succeed,” said AAC&U President Lynn Pasquerella. “As the challenges facing higher education leaders continue to mount, both within and beyond our institutions, we’re thrilled to expand our work in this vital area by building on the outstanding efforts of the New Leadership Academy to ensure that mid- to senior-level professionals are prepared to lead with courage in today’s complex environments.”  

As an initiative of AAC&U, the NLA Fellows Program will continue to prepare mid- to senior-level professionals to navigate today’s challenges in higher education and beyond. Through a six-month immersive experience, NLA fellows engage in online and in-person learning, participate in interactive workshops led by nationally recognized facilitators, and develop leadership skills through small-group facilitation and professional coaching sessions.  

“Since its inception, the New Leadership Academy has championed a forward-thinking leadership model emphasizing collaboration and innovation. This transition to AAC&U will broaden our impact as we continue to empower leaders with the inclusive, adaptive skill sets needed to drive real and lasting change in higher education,” said Mary Ann Villarreal, AAC&U Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Student Success.

"This move is an excellent opportunity for NLA to reach more leaders across the nation. I'm excited that the University of Utah will continue working with NLA by leading NLA's research and curriculum development efforts," said Amy Fulton, New Leadership Academy faculty fellow and assistant professor of education at the University of Utah.

Founded in 2015, NLA has developed over 230 fellows from more than 140 institutions and organizations, including those who now hold roles as university presidents, provosts, vice presidents, deans, directors, and faculty members. The program has also collaborated with national organizations such as the American Council on Education and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities’ Millennium Leadership Institute to broaden its impact across diverse educational and professional landscapes.

More information about the New Leadership Academy Fellows Program is available online at www.aacu.org/nla.

About AAC&U

The American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) is a global membership organization dedicated to advancing the democratic purposes of higher education by promoting equity, innovation, and excellence in liberal education. Through our programs and events, publications and research, public advocacy, and campus-based projects, AAC&U serves as a catalyst and facilitator for innovations that improve educational quality and equity and that support the success of all students. In addition to accredited public and private, two-year, and four-year colleges and universities and state higher education systems and agencies throughout the United States, our membership includes degree-granting higher education institutions in more than twenty-five countries as well as other organizations and individuals. To learn more, visit www.aacu.org.