The Community College Leadership Institute for a New Century (LINC) provides academic and experiential opportunities for leadership development, and encourages advancement into leadership roles in Iowa community colleges.
LINC is designed for informal and emerging leaders, focusing on foundational community college knowledge as well as foundational leadership development to inspire a “lead from where you are” approach through instruction and discussion on a variety of topics, and is in alignment with local and national community college leadership competencies.
Past participants consistently highly value the networking opportunities, especially the chance to connect with college presidents. Campus visits are frequently noted as especially impactful, offering firsthand exposure to innovative initiatives and best practices aimed at improving student outcomes, strengthening community ties, and supporting faculty and staff. Additionally, the Legislative Symposium offers policy insights and practical guidance on how to advocate effectively for community colleges in their roles as professionals and as engaged citizens.
Program Overview
Participants attend monthly seminars and interactive sessions with local, state, and national leaders, and are encouraged to build strong professional networks through informal gatherings and shared learning experiences.
Program Goals:
- Gain foundational community college knowledge.
- Develop skills, traits & abilities for informal and early leadership roles.
- Increase awareness of institutional & state-wide perspectives important to community colleges.
Content/Topics:
- Foundational community college topics
- Foundational leadership development & skills
- Leadership exemplars and speakers
- Networking
- Campus tours & best practices
Program Format: Six, 2-day, in-person meetings at various community colleges throughout the state.
Participant Profiles
Designed for Informal and Emerging Leaders: New/Early Career Professionals, Faculty, and Early Middle Level Leaders
Example roles include: Advisors, Coordinators, Specialists, Assistant Directors, Faculty, Department Chairs, etc.
Nominations
Participation is by nomination through the community college President Offices, as the colleges typically cover the program costs and associated travel expenses.
It is recommended that nominators focus on:
- the participant’s current leadership role, and
- the participant’s familiarity with the community college system.
Nominations should be intentional in providing equitable and diverse development opportunities across populations, content areas, and college operations.
For any questions regarding participant placement or general program questions, please contact us.