Self-nominations are welcome and encouraged.
About the Institute
Preparing Today's Educators to Lead Tomorrow's OT and OTA Programs
Effective academic leadership requires more than clinical expertise, teaching experience, or knowledge of accreditation standards. It requires the ability to lead people, navigate institutional systems, manage competing priorities, make informed decisions, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
The OT and OTA Program Director Leadership Institute is designed to strengthen these competencies through a structured, application-focused professional development experience. Participants will explore the realities of academic leadership through interactive discussions, realistic case studies, collaborative learning, and practical exercises grounded in occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant education.
The Institute emphasizes leadership development that extends beyond accreditation compliance to encompass the broader responsibilities of academic program administration.
"Our mission is to prepare and support occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant educators who are equipped to lead people, strengthen programs, and advance the profession."
Eligibility
Who Should Be Nominated?
The Institute welcomes occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant educators at various stages of their academic leadership journeys. Prior experience as a Program Director is not required.
Aspiring Program Directors
Faculty members interested in pursuing future academic leadership opportunities who would benefit from developing foundational program administration and leadership competencies.
Newly Appointed Program Directors
Individuals who have recently transitioned into program leadership and are seeking practical guidance, resources, and professional connections to support their success.
Current Program Directors
Experienced academic leaders interested in strengthening their leadership practices, addressing emerging challenges, and engaging in meaningful professional development.
Emerging Academic Leaders
Occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant educators demonstrating leadership potential who may be preparing for expanded administrative responsibilities.
Curriculum
Six Dimensions of Effective Academic Program Leadership
The Institute explores six interconnected areas essential to successful OT and OTA program leadership. Select any module to explore its topics and leadership portfolio component.
The Institute Experience
Four Months. Meaningful Mentorship. Transformative Leadership Development.
February–May 2027 · Inaugural Leadership Cohort
The Institute combines structured learning, practical application, individualized leadership coaching, and collaborative engagement to support participants in developing the competencies necessary for effective academic program leadership.
Program Structure at a Glance
| Component | Format | Commitment |
|---|---|---|
| Leadership Institute Sessions | 4 synchronous virtual sessions | 8 hours |
| Asynchronous Learning | Self-directed modules | Structured milestone requirements |
| Leadership Portfolio | Independent applied work | Completed throughout the Institute |
| Individualized Leadership Coaching | 2 one-on-one sessions | Scheduled individually |
| Culminating Portfolio Presentations | 1 synchronous virtual session | 3 hours |
| Total Scheduled Group Instruction | Live virtual | 11 hours |
Additional time will be required for asynchronous learning, portfolio development, and individualized coaching.
Interactive Leadership Institute Sessions
Four Synchronous Sessions · 2 Hours Each · 7:00–9:00 PM Eastern Time
Participants will engage in four interactive virtual Institute sessions facilitated by experienced academic leaders. These sessions will emphasize practical leadership strategies, collaborative problem-solving, real-world OT and OTA education scenarios, and meaningful discussion of the challenges facing academic Program Directors. Sessions will provide opportunities to exchange perspectives, explore leadership approaches, and apply concepts to current and future administrative responsibilities.
Asynchronous Learning and Portfolio Development
Self-Directed Learning · Structured Milestones
Between synchronous sessions, participants will complete asynchronous learning modules and applied leadership activities designed to reinforce and extend their learning. Activities may include recorded presentations, assigned readings, leadership assessments, case studies, reflective exercises, and practical administrative assignments. Each asynchronous module will include defined learning outcomes, required activities, and portfolio development milestones.
Individualized Academic Leadership Coaching
Two One-on-One Coaching Sessions with an Academic Leader
Each participant will receive two individualized coaching sessions with an experienced academic leader. These confidential, personalized conversations will provide opportunities to explore leadership challenges, identify professional development priorities, receive individualized guidance, and reflect on leadership growth. Coaching sessions will support participants in translating Institute concepts into strategies relevant to their own professional goals and institutional contexts.
Academic Leadership Portfolio
A Signature Institute Deliverable
Throughout the Institute, participants will develop a comprehensive Academic Leadership Portfolio demonstrating their professional growth and application of leadership competencies. Structured portfolio milestones will ensure that participants receive opportunities for reflection, application, and continued development throughout the four-month experience. The completed portfolio will serve as a practical professional resource that participants can continue to refine and use throughout their academic leadership careers.
- Personal Leadership Philosophy
- Leadership Self-Assessment and Professional Development Plan
- Faculty Leadership and Development Strategy
- Academic Program Administration Toolkit
- Accreditation and Continuous Improvement Framework
- Strategic Leadership Action Plan
Culminating Leadership Portfolio Presentations
Final Synchronous Session · 3 Hours
The Institute will conclude with a three-hour synchronous session dedicated to Academic Leadership Portfolio presentations. Participants will share highlights of their leadership development journeys, demonstrate the application of Institute concepts, and discuss strategies for continued professional growth. The culminating experience will provide opportunities for peer learning, constructive feedback, professional reflection, and recognition of participants' accomplishments.
Signature Experience
Your Academic Leadership Portfolio
Learn. Reflect. Apply. Lead.
Throughout the Institute, participants will develop an individualized Academic Leadership Portfolio — a comprehensive collection of resources, reflections, strategies, and actionable plans that demonstrate their growth as emerging or established academic leaders.
Personal Leadership Philosophy
A reflective statement articulating leadership values, guiding principles, and vision for effective program leadership.
Leadership Self-Assessment
A structured evaluation of current leadership strengths, areas for growth, and strategies for continued development.
Faculty Leadership and Development Strategy
A practical framework for supervising, mentoring, and developing faculty within an academic program.
Academic Program Administration Toolkit
A collection of resources and strategies for managing curriculum, faculty, students, and program operations.
Accreditation Readiness and Quality Assurance Framework
A structured approach to maintaining accreditation readiness and integrating quality assurance into program operations.
Strategic Leadership Action Plan
A comprehensive, actionable plan identifying leadership priorities, anticipated challenges, implementation strategies, and measurable outcomes.
Participants will leave the Institute with more than new knowledge. They will leave with a personalized leadership portfolio designed to support their continued growth and success in OT and OTA education.
The Experience
More Than Professional Development
The Institute is designed to move beyond traditional lecture-based professional development.
Real-World Leadership Scenarios
Examine challenges commonly encountered by OT and OTA Program Directors, including faculty concerns, accreditation expectations, student issues, and institutional priorities.
Collaborative Problem-Solving
Learn alongside colleagues who share similar leadership responsibilities and aspirations.
Practical Leadership Resources
Access tools, templates, and strategies that can be adapted to individual academic programs.
Reflective Leadership Development
Identify personal leadership strengths, opportunities for growth, and strategies for continued professional development.
Portfolio-Based Learning
Progressively develop an individualized Academic Leadership Portfolio through guided activities, reflection, and practical application.
Leadership Portfolio Presentation
The Institute culminates in an opportunity to share portfolio highlights, reflect on professional growth, and receive constructive feedback from colleagues.
Why Participate
Invest in Your Leadership. Strengthen Your Program.
Tuition
Full four-month Institute experience
The responsibilities of OT and OTA Program Directors continue to evolve as academic programs navigate changing educational expectations, accreditation requirements, institutional priorities, and workforce needs. Yet opportunities for leadership development specifically tailored to OT and OTA education remain limited. The Institute seeks to address this need.
Strengthen confidence and effectiveness as an academic leader.
Develop practical strategies for managing faculty, students, and program operations.
Enhance understanding of institutional and accreditation responsibilities.
Build connections with other current and emerging OT/OTA academic leaders.
Identify actionable strategies for strengthening academic programs.
Develop a comprehensive Academic Leadership Portfolio documenting professional growth and leadership development.
Key Dates & Details
Mark Your Calendar
Nomination Deadline
December 1, 2026
Nominations OpenCohort Selection & Notification
January 2027
Institute Duration
February–May 2027
Live Session Time
7:00–9:00 PM Eastern Time
Culminating Presentations
May 2027
Delivery Format
Virtual
Tuition
$750
Self-nominations are welcome and encouraged. Submission of a nomination does not guarantee selection or constitute registration.
Call for Nominations
Help Shape the Future of OT and OTA Education
Nominations may be submitted by colleagues, Program Directors, Department Chairs, Deans, or other academic leaders. Self-nominations are equally welcome and encouraged.
Nomination Deadline: December 1, 2026