Applications are open for the 2024-25 cohort of the ACE Fellows Program, the nation’s premier higher education leadership development program that has served more than 2,500 higher education leaders over more than 50 years. The application deadline is Friday, Nov. 3.
The ACE Fellows program equips diverse higher education leaders with experience, knowledge, and skills to be agile throughout their careers, transform colleges and universities, and advance equity and inclusion in higher education. More than 80 percent of ACE Fellows have gone on to serve as chief executive officers, chief academic officers, other cabinet-level positions, and deans. Given the program’s unique combination of on-the-job training and skills development and its documented success, it is the most effective leadership development program in U.S. higher education.
“The ACE Fellows Program is core to leadership development in American higher education,” said Sylvia R. Carey-Butler, vice president for institutional equity and diversity at Brown University and ACE Fellow Class of 2016-17. “I had such a transformational experience. I know the lasting impact of the program on me will be seen in how I lead and by why I lead. I will never just think about what’s best for an institution, but rather what’s best and ethical for student learning in my decision-making.”
The ACE Fellows Program condenses years of work experience and skills development into a single year. Fellows immerse themselves in the practice of leadership and experience the culture, policies, and decision-making processes at their host institutions, enabling them to bring those learnings back to their home campuses. Fellows participate in key meetings, events, and special projects; engage in multiday seminars and case studies; and develop a nationwide network of higher education leaders.
ACE encourages candidates from diverse personal and professional backgrounds, functional areas, and institutional sectors to apply. Individuals from community colleges and minority serving institutions are especially encouraged to submit an application. Successful candidates have held positions such as vice president, dean, department chair, or program director; unit leader in student affairs, advancement, or admissions; or chief financial offer, chief diversity officer, or chief of staff. Learn more here about the application, nomination, and placement processes.
Please email fellows@acenet.edu with any questions or to receive more information.