New Leaders Program

New Leaders Program (NLP)

The New Leaders Program (NLP) responds to the University’s need for regular and consistent training of its unit-level leadership, and it frames leadership as a set of opportunities rather than (only) as a set of required duties or likely challenges. This program was previously known as OLP: the “Opportunities in Leadership Program”. The NLP is especially appropriate for new, acting, and interim chairs, directors, and similar unit-level leaders in undepartmentalized colleges and schools and the UW Libraries (e.g., area directors, associate deans, assistant deans, etc.), but is also open to any experienced chairs, directors, and similar unit-level administrators who would like to attend one, several, or all of the scheduled meetings in a given year.

The NLP curriculum emphasizes creating a culture of excellence and covers key areas every chair or director should be aware of. Moreover, sessions are structured around activities that help build a community of practice and support for unit-level leaders across the UW. Although diversity, equity, and inclusion are addressed in every session, a separate session is devoted to these topics to ensure ample time for reflection and discussion.