Texas Academic Leadership Academy
The Texas Council of Chief Academic Officers and Sam Houston State University have partnered to offer the Texas Academic Leadership Academy. TALA, the intensive, year-long professional development experience helps enhance aspiring leaders’ capacities to address the complexities of higher education.
Guided by Stacey L. Edmonson, dean of the College of Education and Matthew Fuller, associate professor and director of the Doctoral Program in Higher Education Leadership, with support from Chris Maynard, associate vice provost, the new academy began in summer 2018 and includes participants from many Texas institutions of higher education.
"The academy is a state-wide initiative designed to address the specific needs of Texas higher education priorities." - Matthew Fuller
To accommodate participants from across the state, the program is primarily web-based with the exception of three face-to-face sessions that occur at different locations.
According to Fuller, SHSU was selected to host the new academy through a competitive process.
“We submitted a proposal along with a number of institutions in this competition,” he said. “Our expertise was a major factor. In addition, we offer a catered experience specific to academic affairs leadership. Our program is cost efficient and offers a tremendous opportunity for people across the state to engage a mentor and experienced leaders in the unique opportunities Texas higher education faces. We received this honor because we offer a comprehensive yet manageable suite of professional development opportunities for leaders who seldom receive training.”
Providing a unique source of professional development, TALA features five top-notch speakers and leaders from all Texas college and university systems. The academy also has a mentorship component, case studies and comprehensive assessment efforts.
TALA Fellows are guided through three face-to-face meetings during the academic year. Monthly online sessions are offered, drawn from key experts of institutions and systems across the state.
Aspiring professionals at all Texas institutions of higher education are eligible to participate, following nomination from the Chief Academic Officer at their institution. Applications for the next cohort include an application and a nomination letter from the Chief Academic Officer of the institution and will be accepted via email (tala@shsu.edu) beginning Spring 2019. More information can be found online: shsu.edu/tala