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Leaders in Enrollment Advancing Diversity (LEAD)

AACRAO ASCEND FAQ

  • What is the ASCEND Leadership Development program?

     

    ASCEND is a strengths-based, nine-month hybrid leadership development program designed for mid-career higher education professionals. Guided by CliftonStrengths, AACRAO Core Competencies, and the Strategic Enrollment Management framework, ASCEND offers immersive cohort-based learning, expert coaching, and hands-on projects that build strategic leadership capacity. The curriculum centers on real-world application of SEM principles, collaborative problem-solving, and the development of skills essential for leading enrollment and elevating the learner experience.

     

  • Can I apply to the ASCEND Leadership Development program if my institution is not an AACRAO Member?

     

    Yes.

     

  • Who is eligible for the ASCEND Leadership Development program?

     

    Enrollment is everyone’s job, and integrating strategic leadership practices centered on enrollment fundamentals helps deepen understanding of the learner journey from prospective student to alumni. ASCEND is open to any mid-career higher education professional with 5–8 years of experience in administrative services (includes procurement, and business development) academic affairs (includes academic advising, teaching and learning), enrollment management (includes admissions, articulation, enrollment, financial aid, graduation, records/registration, recruitment, transfer), governance, public relations (includes communication), and student affairs. Participants are encouraged to have the support of their institutional leadership to fully engage in all program requirements.

     

  • What is the time commitment for the ASCEND Leadership Development program?

     

    Participants commit to attending two AACRAO Conferences - Strategic Enrollment Management and the Annual Meeting, in person and weekly 2-hour virtual classroom sessions three times per month on Thursday evenings from 6:30-8:30 pm (Eastern Standard Time). Expect to dedicate 3-5 hours per week to the ASCEND Leadership Development Program.

     

  • When is the SEM Conference, and where will it be held?

     

    To view meeting details, click here.

     

  • When is the AACRAO Annual Meeting, and where will it be held?

     

    To view meeting details, click here.

     

  • What will I learn in the ASCEND Leadership Development program?

     

    The curriculum is grounded in the core concepts of strategic enrollment management (SEM) and guided by CliftonStrengths and AACRAO Core Competencies. Through a blend of interactive presentations, cohort-based discussions, and group activities, you’ll connect mid-career expertise with proven leadership theory. Scholars will deepen their understanding of SEM frameworks, develop strengths-based leadership skills, and apply both in a collaborative, team-based capstone project. This experience is designed to elevate your strategic thinking, expand your professional network, and empower you with the practical tools and confidence needed for executive-level leadership and real-world institutional impact.
  • How are participants selected for the ASCEND Leadership Development program?

     

    Ten participants are selected annually by a review panel. The application process is designed to understand applicants' philosophy, goals, leadership aspirations, and career background. We conduct a holistic review to assess the probability of advancement, institutional balance between 2 and 4-year applicants,  and fit within the cohort. Your authentic responses also help with coach matching. Thoughtful reflection before applying is encouraged to showcase how you'll thrive in ASCEND.

     

  • Who provides instruction for the ASCEND Leadership Development program sessions?

     

    Top SEM leaders within AACRAO and AACRAO Consulting serve as coaches and facilitate the ASCEND sessions. Occasionally, we will have industry guest experts.

     

  • What is the meeting cadence and structure with ASCEND Coaches?

    Scholars are required to meet once a month with their ASCEND coach using a mutually agreed-upon platform that permits engagement. This ensures consistent support and guidance throughout the program.

  • What can participants expect from coaching meetings and what is the role of coaches?

    Coaches provide guidance, feedback, and networking opportunities aligned with scholars' career goals. They review scholars' strengths and application data to tailor support. Scholars drive the relationship, communicating regularly and seeking advice. Both parties commit to open, honest communication while maintaining confidentiality. Coaches aim to motivate, inspire, and enhance scholars' professional development.

  • What happens after I complete the ASCEND Leadership Development program?

     

    As enrollment management roles have expanded and the focus on learner success has grown, ASCEND and AACRAO aids institutions in economic professional investment in and competency based skill development of their current staff—retaining talent, increasing efficiency, and driving institutional excellence.

    Upon completing ASCEND, 55% of graduates remain with their current institution, becoming more skilled, confident, and effective in their roles. Many report improved institutional metrics, stronger cross-campus relationships, and greater impact on learner success. Some receive promotions or witness new positions created to leverage their strength-based skill sets. Approximately 45% of graduates transition to other leadership roles such as Executive Director, Registrar, AVP, and VP roles within 6-12 months.
  • The original goal of ASCEND was to build a robust pipeline for enrollment management leadership, addressing projected retirements and vacancies. ASCEND benefits both the professional and the institution, offering a pathway to greater impact, career growth, and operational effectiveness. After graduation, participants are encouraged to leverage their ASCEND network, pursue advanced engagement within AACRAO, or consider the SEM-EP Certification.

     

  • Can my participation in the ASCEND Leadership Development program be deferred?

     

    No, transfers/deferments are not allowed.

     

  • I was accepted, but I can not participate in the program. Can I obtain a refund?

     

    Participants who withdraw from the ASCEND program before the start date will receive a full refund minus a 15% processing fee. After the program begins,  no refunds will be issued. Transfers or deferments are not permitted.

     

  • What happens if I fail to meet the ASCEND Leadership Development program requirements?

     

    In rare circumstances, AACRAO may withdraw a participant from the ASCEND program for reasons such as lack of progress, unprofessional behavior, three or more unexcused absences, or unresponsiveness to program coaches, the coordinator, or other staff. Participants may also be withdrawn for conduct that violates AACRAO’s policies or core values. In these cases, no refund will be issued.  

     

  • How can I learn more and apply to the ASCEND Leadership Development program?

     

    Visit the ASCEND program site www.aacrao.org/ascend for application dates and more information. You may also contact the ASCEND program office directly via ascend@aacrao.org

     

  • Do you offer scholarships for the ASCEND Leadership Development program?

     

     Unfortunately, we do not offer scholarships at this time. The program fee has been heavily discounted from its value of $7,290+ to support prospective participants' affordable engagement. If you need assistance justifying your participation or costs, access our ASCEND Justification Letter.

  • Do you offer a payment plan for the ASCEND Leadership Development Program?

    We do not offer a payment plan. To solidify participation, payment must be made in full by the due date.