Deans Leadership Program

ALP Seminar II UofI 2026_2

The Big Ten Academic Alliance Deans Leadership Program (DLP) is designed specifically for deans who have been appointed to their roles within the past 36 months and focuses on critical issues that occur in the initial months and years of the dean’s role.

Providing a unique opportunity to learn from, and with, colleagues who are at a similar stage in their leadership journey, intensive in-person and virtual engagement sessions engage participants in addressing the various questions and situations that both confront and confound them, while working towards solutions that are beneficial for their college, colleagues, and themselves personally.

Program Timeline

DLP is a 6 months-long leadership development program that includes the following:

  • Two three-day in-person sessions held at the Big Ten Conference Center in Rosemont, IL.
  • Two 90-minute virtual sessions 
  1. January

    In-Person Session I

  2. February

    Virtual Session I

  3. April

    Virtual Session II

  4. June

    In-Person Session II

Program Objectives

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The goal of the program is to allow university deans to deepen their understanding of their role's purpose and goals and to strengthen skills that contribute to their effectiveness. In bringing together deans from all BTAA universities, the program encourages cross-institutional learning and development of supportive peer networks.

Eligibility and Selection Process

The program is designed for deans who are relatively new to the role, including those with prior experience. In select cases, individuals who report directly to the provost may be considered for participation. Each BTAA university may send two participants each year. Full participation in all sessions is expected, as absences can affect the overall experience and learning environment for the cohort