Career Sponsorship as a Professional Practice for Participation in Professional Development Programs

Abstract

There are numerous opportunities for aspiring college presidents to participate in formal leadership development programs created by professional organizations dedicated to leadership in higher education. These formal leadership programs serve a variety of leaders in the presidential pipeline, including aspiring presidents in senior leadership positions and mid-level academic leaders. Participation in these programs is well-documented; however, participation in these programs can be stifled without a targeted professional development plan.