Whether you have a planned trajectory toward a Catholic college or university presidency, or you are early in considering this key leadership role, the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities offers programming to help you explore the calling of the presidency in Catholic higher education.
Aspiring Presidents is for those who are early in the process of considering the role. Discerning the Presidency is for senior leaders who are seriously and actively pursuing the presidency, within the next three to five years.
Aspiring Presidents
This virtual program is open to all senior leaders who are considering a Catholic higher education presidency. Hear from current ACCU presidents as you advance your understanding of the role of the president as a ministry of the Catholic Church.
Whether you have a planned trajectory toward a presidency, or you are still navigating your path, this program will offer you additional insights as you continue your discernment.
2026 Aspiring Presidents Virtual Program
Thursday, October 29, 2026
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Eastern)
Discerning the Presidency
ACCU offers this two-day conference for senior executives and academics, nominated by ACCU member presidents, who are seriously discerning a presidency within the next three to five years.
Nomination Process
Only ACCU member presidents may nominate candidates for participation in this program. No one will be considered unless recommended by an ACCU president.
Timeline
Discerning the Presidency is held every 2-3 years.
The next Discerning the Presidency will be held in summer 2028. Location will be announced soon.
Questions? Contact Lorraine Sloma-Williams, Ed.D.
Which Program is Right for Me?
Both programs are designed for senior leaders exploring the presidency, but they differ in purpose, format, participant qualifications, and cost. The comparison below outlines those differences.
| Aspiring Presidents | Discerning the Presidency | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Those who are in the early stages of considering a presidency in Catholic higher education. | Those who are seriously and actively pursuing a presidency in Catholic higher education within the next 3-5 years. |
| Format | 2-hour Virtual Session Participants will explore: – The vocation of the Catholic university president. – How to expand your resumé without leaving your current role. – The many paths to the Catholic university presidency. Led by veteran ACCU member presidents. | 2-Day In-Person Conference This conference will focus on the particularities of leading in a Catholic context, allowing room and confidentiality for several kinds and levels of conversations about the role itself, preparing oneself for it, and about discerning the presidency as a vocational call. Sessions will be led by veteran ACCU presidents. Confidentiality will be expected. |
| Participant Qualifications | Open to all senior leaders considering a Catholic higher education presidency. Current roles: – Vice Presidents – Deans – Other senior executive leadership | ACCU member presidents may nominate candidates (senior executives or academics with significant leadership experience and potential) who aspire to a presidency within the next 3–5 years. In addition to the experience and credentials for the position, candidates must also possess the stamina, self-understanding, and wherewithal to manage the current demands of the position. Approximately 20 candidates will be chosen by an ACCU committee of current and past presidents. The candidate selection process will embody ACCU’s commitment to diversity and to building a diverse leadership pipeline. No one will be considered unless recommended by an ACCU member president. Successful nominees will be identified as having the fortitude and readiness to lead, given the challenges ahead for the role of president. They must be ready to assume leadership within the next 3–5 years. |
| Associated Costs | Registration Fee $99 (USD) Registrants will be emailed the meeting link upon registration. REGISTRATION OPEN SOON | Program Expenses All program expenses, including meals and lodging, are being generously provided by the hosting institution. Travel Expenses Participants or their sending institution must cover travel cost or any additional expenses. |