The MCCA Leadership Academy

This session preview will prepare the Leadership Academy fellows for Convening #5 Managing and Advancing Institutional Change

Convening #5 Managing and Advancing Institutional Change

The Leadership Academy Orientation introduces fellows to the structure, expectations, and overall experience of the program. Participants gain a clear understanding of the curriculum, convening schedule, and their role as fellows, while also learning about the Michigan Community College Association and Michigan Center for Student Success initiatives.

The session also focuses on building connections across the cohort and establishing a collaborative, inclusive learning environment. Fellows are introduced to their Student Success Projects and begin engaging in conversations about student success challenges and opportunities across Michigan’s community colleges.

This preview session prepares fellows for Convening 1 by introducing key themes, speakers, and expectations. Fellows will review pre-work, understand how the session connects to their Student Success Projects, and come ready to engage in conversations around leadership and student success.

This opening convening explores the role of leadership in advancing student success. Fellows examine Michigan’s higher education landscape, define student success through a data-informed lens, and begin shaping their Student Success Projects. The session also focuses on fostering a culture of evidence to support decision-making and institutional improvement. 

On Wed., Sept. 30th, Convening #6: External Partnerships and Reflecting on Your Personal Leadership Journey will take place. During this convening fellows will also have a walkthrough of the Fellowship Graduation that will occur during the MCSS Student Success Summit.

On Thurs., Oct. 1, Fellows will have their Fellowship graduation and will present their student success projects during the MCSS Student Success Summit.

This preview session introduces fellows to the focus of Convening 2, including improving labor market outcomes and strengthening transfer pathways. Fellows will review expectations, prepare for engagement with guest speakers, and reflect on how this work connects to their institutional context.

Fellows focus on aligning institutional strategies with students’ long-term outcomes. Sessions explore improving labor market outcomes through employer partnerships and strengthening transfer at scale to support bachelor’s attainment. Fellows will consider how institutions can better support students in achieving meaningful post-completion success.

This preview session prepares fellows for the virtual convening on the student experience. Participants will review session topics, expectations for engagement, and how teaching, learning, and advising connect to student success outcomes.

This virtual convening centers on improving the student experience through teaching, learning, and advising. Fellows explore strategies to strengthen instructional practices and design advising systems that promote equitable student outcomes. Sessions include practitioner insights and panels that connect theory to real-world application.

This preview session introduces fellows to the upcoming focus on leadership and institutional transformation. Fellows will reflect on their leadership approach and prepare to engage in conversations about equity, culture, and change.

Fellows deepen their understanding of leadership as a driver of institutional change. Sessions focus on leadership qualities that advance student success and embedding equity as a core component of leadership. Fellows continue refining their Student Success Projects and their role as change agents within their institutions.

This preview session prepares fellows for Convening 5, focusing on leading institutional change and strategic decision-making. Fellows will review expectations and reflect on how to apply leadership strategies within their own college context.

This convening focuses on leading internal transformation and aligning institutional systems to support student success. Fellows explore strategies for building strong teams, leading change efforts, and using finance strategically to advance reforms. Sessions emphasize practical leadership skills for implementing and sustaining change.

This virtual session provides space for fellows to explore excellence and equity in dual enrollment and consider how partnerships and early college experiences impact student success.

This final preview session prepares fellows for the culminating convening. Fellows will review expectations for project presentations and reflect on their growth throughout the Leadership Academy.

The final convening brings together key themes from the Academy, strategic partnerships, and leadership reflection. Fellows present their Student Success Projects, share key learnings, and reflect on their development as leaders committed to advancing student success across Michigan’s community colleges.