Announcing the 2025-2026 ASCEND Leadership Development Program Scholars
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Posted By: Reginald Culpepper on July 11, 2025 The American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) proudly announces the sixth cohort of its ASCEND Leadership Development Program, a transformative initiative designed to prepare equity-driven, mid-career professionals for executive roles in strategic enrollment management (SEM). The 2025–2026 cohort features ten outstanding scholars who represent a wide spectrum of institutional types, including community colleges, four-year public and private universities, and specialized graduate institutions across the continental U.S. These leaders bring expertise in admissions, financial aid, registrar services, and academic support, and currently serve in roles ranging from Assistant and Associate Directors to Directors. Through ASCEND’s nine-month, cohort-based curriculum, scholars engage in intensive leadership development, build peer networks, and receive one-on-one coaching. Together, they will develop collaborative SEM Capstone Projects that reflect a holistic approach to enrollment, prioritizing student access, equity, and success from recruitment through graduation. These projects will be showcased at the 111th AACRAO Annual Meeting in New Orleans, and scholars will also lead two AACRAO webinars in Spring 2026. "This cohort epitomizes the goal of ASCEND: to empower equity-driven enrollment leaders to catalyze transformational change for the learner experience today and into the future," said Johnika Nixon, ASCEND Program Coordinator. "We are confident our updated curriculum will continue to accelerate scholar ascension—vertically or horizontally." Most cohort members are newer to their current roles, bringing fresh insights and the wisdom of longer institutional service. This dynamic mix positions them to challenge norms, implement data-informed strategies, and foster inclusive cultures that respond to shifting learner needs and institutional demands. AACRAO gratefully acknowledges the ongoing support of Spelman Johnson, sponsor of the ASCEND Leadership Development Program. Meet the 2025–2026 cohort and learn more about ASCEND. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Reginald Culpepper
President, Fulfillment and Web Services, HBCUCONNECT Clark Atlanta University class of 1998 Member Since September 2000 |
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