ASCEND Justification Letter

Do you need help making the case to your leadership to invest in your development this year? 

The AACRAO ASCEND Leadership Development Program is anchored in the core competency of change management. It equips you with the skills and strategies to lead confidently through uncertainty, drive impactful campus initiatives, and deliver measurable value in today’s dynamic higher education environment. 

Now is the perfect time to take your leadership to the next level. We’ve outlined central components of the program to help you secure professional and financial support from your institution. Modify our template for email or a conversation during your 1:1.

We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to ASCEND.

Sample Justification Email & Talking Points

Subject: Request for ASCEND Program Participation—Professional Growth & Institutional Value

Dear [Name],

I am seeking your approval and support to participate in the ASCEND Leadership Development Program, offered by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO). ASCEND stands apart as a proven, strategic investment for enrolling, retaining, and engaging today’s learners—and the teams that support them.

ASCEND is a nine-month, hybrid accelerator specifically designed for mid-career professionals in enrollment management, student services, and academic support roles, built upon AACRAO’s Core Competencies and a robust Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) framework. Through immersive cohort work, targeted coaching, and a hands-on capstone project, the ASCEND program curriculum intentionally cultivates the skills and strategic mindset needed to excel—and adapt—in an increasingly dynamic higher education landscape.

Institutional and Professional Benefits:

• Immediate Application of Learning: The strengths-based program model ensures I will apply key concepts and techniques—such as strategic planning, data-informed decision-making, and change management—to current projects and institutional priorities.
• Strategic Enrollment Solutions: By collaborating with colleagues and AACRAO consultants, I will develop and implement a strategic SEM plan tailored to our campus, bringing back resources and actionable strategies.
• Enhanced Leadership and Collaboration: Engaging deeply with AACRAO core competencies (collaborative decision-making, holistic thinking, communication, and problem-solving) will enhance my ability to guide cross-functional teams and drive positive, measurable change.
• Expansive Professional Network: The program provides engagement at SEM Conference and the AACRAO Annual Meeting, learning and connection with peers nationwide.
• Ongoing Institutional Value: Key findings and resources will be shared with our office after each milestone, ensuring insights benefit our whole team, not just one participant.

Institutional Benefits:

• Immediate Application of Learning: ASCEND’s strengths-based approach ensures I will identify and leverage my unique talents to address current institutional challenges and opportunities.
• Strategic Enrollment Solutions: Through the capstone project, I will collaborate with peers and AACRAO consultants to develop and implement a SEM plan tailored to our institution’s needs, bringing back actionable strategies and best practices.
• Enhanced Leadership and Collaboration: The program’s focus on AACRAO competencies—including change management, data-informed decision-making, and holistic thinking—will strengthen my ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive innovation.
• Expanded Professional Network: Participation includes in-person engagement at the SEM Conference and AACRAO Annual Meeting, providing access to a national network of enrollment leaders and exposure to emerging trends and solutions.
• Ongoing Institutional Value: I will share key takeaways, resources, and recommendations after each milestone, ensuring our office and campus community benefit from the latest insights in enrollment management and leadership development.

Time and Fiscal Commitment:
ASCEND requires an average of 8 hours per month and participation in two in-person conferences. The $2,550 program fee covers both conference registrations, with estimated travel and lodging expenses detailed below.

*2026 SEM Conference in Baltimore, MarylandEstimated CostsAirfare: $500Airfare Transportation (Rideshare): $50/ridePer Diem: $64 per dayHotel: $250/night, plus state tax and feesConference fee: Included in Leadership Program Fee

*2027 Annual Meeting in Long Beach, CaliforniaEstimated CostsAirfare: $600Airfare Transportation (Rideshare): $50/ridePer Diem: $64 per dayHotel: $250/night, plus state tax and feesConference fee: Included in Leadership Program Fee

Applications are due by January 9, 2026, with acceptance notifications by February 9, 2026, and program fee due by April 10, 2026.

I am committed to sharing actionable recommendations throughout the program and tailoring insights to advance our enrollment and learner success initiatives. I believe ASCEND is not just an investment in my development, but a catalyst for lasting institutional excellence amid change.

Thank you for considering my request.

Regards,

[Name]