Academic Leadership Pathways Program

The Academic Leadership Pathways Program is a ten-month development opportunity designed to support current and emerging academic leaders at UBC Okanagan in strengthening the core leadership competencies essential to their roles.

This cohort will engage in an interactive, in-person learning experience from May to March, with a focus on operational effectiveness, community-building, and contextual leadership within the Okanagan campus environment.

Participants will explore topics such as budget management, student conduct, tenure and promotion processes, and collective agreements—while also fostering valuable connections through peer learning, optional coaching, and dialogue with senior campus leaders.

Program Goals

  • Strengthen foundational leadership capabilities for academic administration
  • Build a supportive academic leadership community at UBC Okanagan
  • Provide campus-specific operational insights and leadership context
  • Foster cross-functional dialogue with senior UBCO leadership
  • Encourage reflective practice through personalized leadership development

Who Should Participate

This program is intended for current and aspiring academic leaders at UBC Okanagan, including (but not limited to) Department Heads, Associate Directors, and others in roles with responsibility for teams, programs, or key operational functions.

Program Format

Delivered in-person at UBC Okanagan, the Academic Leadership Pathways program blends formal workshops with peer collaboration, individualized development planning, and leadership dialogue.

  • Facilitated Sessions: Five thematic workshops; three context conversations with UBC Okanagan leaders (2.5 hours/month Sept-Mar)
  • Peer Learning Circles: Small-group learning with optional mentoring opportunities (2 hours overall)
  • Leadership Development Plan: Individualized plan to guide growth and track progress (ongoing)
  • Coaching & Assessments: UBC’s Coaching Services; optional tools (e.g., StrengthsFinder, Emotional Intelligence) available for a fee (self-directed)
  • Supplemental Learning: Resources via Canvas and leadership programs like Academic Leadership Development Program and Leadership Launchpad (self-directed)

Program Timeline

The Academic Leadership Pathways journey is thoughtfully paced over ten months, balancing structured learning, collaborative reflection, and personalized growth.

  • April: Invitation to apply
  • May–July: Onboarding, access to Canvas, Peer Learning Circle launch
  • August: Crafting Leadership Development Plans, assessments & coaching encouraged
  • September–March: Workshops, context conversations, Peer Learning Circles, final review of Leadership Development Plans

Application Process

Participation in this program is by open application, with details shared through Deans and academic leadership channels.

For more information, contact Shweta Jaiswal Thakur