Graduate Leaders Institute
An initiative to foster collaboration, innovation, and leadership across our graduate programs.
The Graduate Leaders Institute provides a dedicated space for graduate program directors and graduate faculty to connect, share ideas, and engage in discussions on key topics in graduate education. Through engaging discussions, guest speakers, and peer-to-peer learning, you will gain practical insights and strategies to support graduate student success.
Each monthly session will feature a timely topic, guest presenters, and opportunities for collaborative conversation. Whether you are new to graduate leadership or a seasoned faculty member, the Institute is designed to foster community, spark innovation, and collectively address challenges and opportunities facing graduate education today.
Upcoming Sessions:
September 16, 2025 from 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Speakers:
- Provost Eric Link, VPAA
- Interim Dean Dr. Soojung Kim, Graduate School
The kick-off social will be held at the Gershman Graduate Center and via Zoom. This social will include brief remarks from Provost Eric Link and Interim Dean Soojung Kim, followed by time to connect with colleagues across disciplines. RSVP for the social.
October 6, 2025 from 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Speakers:
- Dr. Laura Look, Director, School of Graduate Studies
- Dr. Virginia Clinton-Lisell, Faculty Fellow, School of Graduate Studies
Held in-person at the Gershman Graduate Center, Room 302, and via Zoom.
November 3, 2025 from 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Speakers:
- Dr. Steve Cooper, Department Chair & Professor, Social Work
- Michelle Garske, Assistant Dean, Dean's Office CoBPA
- Dr. Stanley Tomomewo, Assistant Professor, Energy Engineering
Held in-person at the Gershman Graduate Center, Room 302, and via Zoom.
December 1, 2025 from 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Speakers:
- Dr. Cindy Flom-Meland, Department Chair & Professor, Physical Therapy
- Dr. Pablo de Leon, Department Chair & Professor, Space Studies
Held in-person at the Gershman Graduate Center, Room 302, and via Zoom.
February 2, 2026 from 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Speakers:
- Dr. Laura Link, Program Director & Associate Professor, Teaching & Leadership
- Renee Shelton, VP of Corporate & Foundation Relations, UNDAAF
Held in-person at the Gershman Graduate Center, Room 302, and via Zoom.
March 2, 2026 from 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Speakers: TBA
Held in-person at the Gershman Graduate Center, Room 302, and via Zoom.
April 13, 2026 from 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Speakers: TBA
Held in-person at the Gershman Graduate Center, Room 302, and via Zoom.