OXFORD, Ohio – The Mid-American Conference (MAC) continued its commitment to developing the next generation of university leaders as academic faculty and administrators from across its member institutions gathered for the Conference's Academic Leadership Development Program (ALDP) Fall Workshop, October 26–28, on the campus of Miami University.
Among a relatively small number of NCAA Division I conferences offering a conference-wide academic leadership development initiative, the MAC has made the cultivation of future academic leaders an important component of its commitment to institutional excellence and collaboration beyond athletics.
Established in 2017–18, the MAC Academic Leadership Development Program identifies and prepares faculty and administrators for future leadership responsibilities in higher education. The program brings together approximately 48 fellows annually, supported by 12 institutional liaisons, providing opportunities for professional development, mentorship, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas across member institutions.
"The Mid-American Conference is first and foremost a collection of outstanding universities, and our responsibilities and opportunities extend well beyond the fields and courts of competition," said MAC Commissioner Dr. Jon A. Steinbrecher. "One of the things that distinguishes the MAC is our commitment to working together to strengthen our institutions. The Academic Leadership Development Program is a terrific example of that commitment. We are investing in talented faculty and administrators who will help shape the future of higher education. When we develop strong leaders, we strengthen our universities, enhance the educational experience of our students, and ultimately strengthen the Conference. I am particularly proud that the MAC is among a select group of conferences making this type of investment in academic leadership."
This year's workshop, themed Sustainability in Higher Education, examined the evolving challenges confronting colleges and universities and the leadership strategies necessary to ensure their long-term success. Discussions addressed the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainability, as well as the importance of institutional adaptability, collaboration, and effective leadership.
"This workshop aimed to demonstrate how aspects of sustainability, including economic, social, and environmental components, are woven into the current and future higher education landscape," said Dr. Marcia England, MAC ALDP Liaison and Interim Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs at Miami University. "We hope that the academic leaders who attended learned some tools that are needed to navigate this challenging terrain with careful thought and consideration."
The three-day workshop opened Monday with a reception at Miami University's Walter L. Gross Jr. Family Student-Athlete Development Center, followed by dinner and remarks from England.
Tuesday's programming featured Jon Rice, Director of Research Advisory Services at EAB Higher Education Consulting, who addressed "Higher Education in a Challenging Landscape." Miami University President Dr. Gregory Crawford shared perspectives from his leadership experience during a session titled "Passing the Baton: What I Learned on the Front Lines of Leadership."
Additional sessions explored university advancement, sustaining liberal education, and the challenges and opportunities facing today's higher education institutions. Participants also toured Miami University's campus sustainability initiatives and engaged in a fireside chat with Provost Trent Gould.
"We were delighted to host the Mid-American Academic Leadership Development Program at Miami University," Crawford said. "The spirit of collaboration across our MAC institutions truly shines at educational gatherings like this. I loved interacting with such an enthusiastic group of leaders. Their aspirations, great ideas, and inspirational stories were energizing. We are deeply grateful to the MAC for continuing this phenomenal, long-standing partnership as we shape the future of higher education together."
The workshop concluded Wednesday with sessions focused on the interpersonal and professional dimensions of effective academic leadership. Programming included "Cultivating Academic Leadership: Rooted in Relationships," remarks from Miami men's basketball head coach Travis Steele, and a discussion titled "Burning Bright, Not Burning Out," addressing the importance of maintaining personal well-being while navigating leadership responsibilities.
Through initiatives such as the Academic Leadership Development Program, the Mid-American Conference continues to demonstrate that the value of conference membership extends beyond athletics. By bringing together faculty, administrators, and institutional leaders, the MAC fosters relationships and shared learning that contribute to stronger universities and a stronger Conference.
ABOUT THE MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE
Founded in 1946, the Mid-American Conference is one of the nation's oldest NCAA Division I collegiate athletics conferences, consisting of 12 full member institutions and sponsoring championship competition in 23 sports. The MAC is committed to providing transformational opportunities that develop leaders of character, strengthen its member institutions, and positively impact the communities they serve. Through athletic competition, academic collaboration, and leadership development, the Conference advances the shared interests and missions of its member universities.
