SEMSA Leadership Institute

The Strategic Enrollment Management and Student Affairs division is launching the SEMSA Leadership Institute. This dynamic 10-month professional development in-person program is designed to strengthen leadership capacity, deepen institutional knowledge, and foster meaningful connections across the university community.

Intentional Leadership Development

As the division continues to grow, so does the need for intentional leadership development. This institute is designed for professionals at all levels, offering a unique opportunity to build skills, expand perspectives, and engage more fully in the life of the university.

Grounded in a civic leadership model, the program emphasizes the dynamic relationship between leaders, their organizations, and the broader community. Participants will explore key areas of campus operations—including Academic Affairs, Administration and Finance, Human Resources, Advancement, and Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) — while also engaging with community partners to better understand and address shared challenges.

Through interactive, in-person sessions and applied learning, participants will:

• Increase leadership skills and effectiveness
• Strengthen communication and collaboration across units
• Gain greater understanding of campus and community
• Form robust understanding of higher education governance and structure

The institute will bring together cohorts of approximately 20 participants annually, creating a collaborative learning environment that encourages relationship-building across departments.

Session Dates and Details

The program consists of nine full-day sessions monthly from September through June (excluding December), held at various on- and off-campus locations to provide a comprehensive view of the university and surrounding community.

Participants will also benefit from continued engagement through a dedicated SharePoint site, as well as receive program materials, certificates, and institute-branded items.

The SEMSA Leadership Institute represents a meaningful investment in our people—equipping leaders with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to elevate their work, strengthen the division, and ultimately enhance student success at Cal Poly.


How to Apply

All SEMSA employees can apply. Participants are expected to attend all nine sessions, please ensure that you can attend them before applying. Multiple absences can result in disqualification from the program. 

The application deadline is Friday, July 17, 2026.

If you have questions, please contact:
Jamie Patton: japatton@calpoly.edu
Jamilla Jamison: jhjamiso@calpoly.edu
Joy Pedersen: jmpeders@calpoly.edu

Additional Details

• We are committed to providing equal access to the program. If departments are unable to support the cost of travel between SLO and Solano Campus, additional funding may be requested from the vice president's office.
• The sessions will be held in-person with no Zoom alternative. If there are issues relating to travel costs between the San Luis Obispo and Solano Campus, the vice president's office is willing to provide funding to support travel.
• The SEMSA Leadership Program is an optional program and there will not be compensation for completing the program, and it does not guarantee advancement if you participate.
• We aim to build a cohort that reflects the breadth of SEMSA, including representation from a variety of departments, roles, and professional experiences. A diverse cohort enhances the learning experience by bringing multiple perspectives and fostering meaningful cross-functional relationships.