The Leadership Excellence and Development Program (LEAD) is designed for WashU Staff members who manage other managers and lead large teams or scopes of programs and are seeking an opportunity to have a stronger leadership impact multiple layers out from their immediate scope of influence.
Applications for fall 2024 cohorts will open in early May. If you have an interest in the fall 2024 application process, sign up here to be notified via email with more information and an application link when it becomes available. If you have any questions, please email ILEinfo@wustl.edu.
Program Structure
The program is based on the 70-20-10 adult learning model. This model suggests 10% of learning is done via formal learning (i.e., classroom setting), 20% is done by learning from peers, mentors and/or coaches. The remaining 70% is done through experiential learning (trial and error—applying a growth mindset).
Monthly Breakdown/Time Commitment
Each topic is broken out over the course of one month. Participants will meet for a facilitated learning session, network with a senior WashU leader, reflect independently and in their small groups, receive coaching on an individual leadership development plan, and work towards a small group capstone project. Each month, participants can anticipate dedicating 12 hours towards LEAD. Across the duration of the program with the addition of one-off items like orientation and graduation, LEAD members can anticipate investing 110 hours total on their LEAD experience.
Participants can expect to set aside time each week towards LEAD, but the following days will be crucial as they are LEAD’s in-person learning sessions:
- Wednesday, September 11
- Wednesday, October 9
- Wednesday, November 13 (tentative)
- Wednesday, December 4
- Wednesday, January 15
- Wednesday, February 5
- Wednesday, March 5
- Wednesday, April 2
Topics*
- Leadership styles
- Diversity, equity and inclusion
- Growth mindset
- Coaching
- Change & conflict management
- Organizational culture and psychological safety
*This is not an all-inclusive list but a brief synopsis and will vary based on the program.
Application/Selection Process Timeline
Application window: May 1- May 31, 2024
Selection announcement: mid-July 2024
First session: September 2024, with an Orientation in August 2024
Please note only completed applications with submitted supervisor support forms will be considered.
Program Eligibility
- Must be in current position for at least one year by September 2024.
- Must be in good standing, meaning maintain an acceptable level of performance including but not limited to absence of corrective action in the last one year and/or resolution of previous corrective action.
- Must have at least 3 current direct reports due to the nature of the curriculum.
- Must have more than 5 years of leadership experience in a professional capacity.
- Must have the support of their manager.
- Preference will be given to managers of managers who lead and influence large teams or scopes of programs