WKU News

Dr. Raymond Poff, professor in the WKU School of Kinesiology, Recreation and Sport, has been selected for the newest cohort of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) Emerging Leaders Program (ELP). He joins a group of 45 rising academic and administrative professionals from institutions across the country.

“The past 24 years have provided many wonderful leadership opportunities on WKU’s campus, in the community, and in my profession,” said Poff. “I’m excited that the AASCU-ELP is designed to train a wide range of higher education leaders and for the opportunity it provides to learn from others in areas such as student affairs, residence life, academic colleges, marketing, research and analytics, strategic initiatives, and academic affairs.”

The ELP supports the development of mid-senior career higher education professionals by equipping them with the skills and perspective needed to take on expanded leadership responsibilities. Participants explore key topics, including strategic communication, project management, organizational change, and the development of a personal leadership approach.

“This program reflects a strong commitment to developing the next generation of higher education leadership,” said Kristin G. Esterberg, chancellor, University of Washington Bothell, and ELP executive sponsor. “We’re excited to support these professionals as they strengthen their capabilities, broaden their networks, and contribute to the future of their institutions and the students they serve.”

Each cohort member undertakes a campus-based project or initiative, working closely with a mentor and receiving guidance from an adviser. Through both structured and informal opportunities to learn from one another, the group will build relationships with mentors, faculty, and members of the broader AASCU network.

The program begins today with an in-person seminar in Washington, D.C., followed by a series of interactive virtual sessions held throughout the year.

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association that represents the sector of over 500 regional public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to serving today’s students, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions delivering America’s promise.