Leadership Excellence and Advancement Program (LEAP)
NCURA Region III: Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?
NCURA Region III is pleased to invite applications for the Leadership Excellence and Advancement
Program (LEAP), the region’s flagship mentorship and leadership development program for research
administrators seeking to grow as leaders both within their institutions and NCURA.
LEAP connects participants with experienced mentors and provides opportunities for leadership
development, professional growth, networking, and engagement with the broader research
administration community. Through the program, participants will explore leadership concepts, build
strategic relationships, gain insights from experienced professionals, and develop the confidence
necessary to influence positive change.
Who Should Apply?
LEAP is intended for NCURA members at various stages of their careers who are interested in developing
their leadership capabilities, strengthening their professional presence, and contributing to the
advancement of the research administration profession.
LEAP is intended for NCURA members who:
- Aspire to leadership roles within their institutions or the research administration profession.
- Seek to strengthen leadership and professional competencies.
- Are interested in expanding their professional networks.
- Demonstrate initiative, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous learning.
- Value inclusion, collaboration, and service to others
- Desire to contribute to the future growth and success of NCURA and the research administration
profession.
Mentee Commitments
Mentee participants in LEAP are expected to:
- Maintain active NCURA membership throughout the program.
- Discuss participation expectations with their supervisor and ensure suƯicient time is available to
engage fully in the program. - Actively engage in mentoring discussions and program activities.
- Be open to feedback and new perspectives.
- Demonstrate professionalism and commitment throughout the cohort year.
- Participate in scheduled meetings and learning opportunities.
- Explore opportunities for future leadership and volunteer service within NCURA.
- Contribute to a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
- Attendance at the NCURA Region III Spring Meeting is strongly encouraged, as it provides valuable
networking and leadership development opportunities. Participants are responsible for any
registration, travel, lodging, and related expenses, as LEAP does not provide financial support for
meeting attendance
Mentor Expectations
LEAP mentors serve as guides, coaches, and advocates who share their experience and leadership
insights with participants. Mentors are expected to:
- Maintain active NCURA membership throughout the program.
- Meet regularly with their assigned mentee and engage in program activities.
- Encourage professional growth and leadership development.
- Share experiences, lessons learned, and leadership perspectives.
- Foster an inclusive and supportive mentoring relationship.
- Help participants identify pathways for professional advancement and engagement within
NCURA
Program Vision
LEAP is more than a mentorship program. It is an investment in the future of NCURA Region III and the
research administration profession. Through mentorship, leadership development, and meaningful
engagement, LEAP aims to build a strong pipeline of diverse, inclusive leaders who will drive innovation,
inspire others, and strengthen the profession for years to come.
We invite you to join us in shaping the future of research administration through the Leadership
Excellence and Advancement Program.
See the Future. Shape the Future. Be the Future.
Applications for the upcoming LEAP cohort are now open.