Mississippi State University Launches 2025-26 Faculty Leadership Program

Mississippi State University (MSU) has announced the participants of its 2025-26 Faculty Leadership Program, aimed at enhancing the leadership capabilities of faculty members. The initiative includes two dozen faculty from various departments who will receive specialized training and mentorship to prepare for higher-level administrative and project leadership roles.

The program, which runs for eight months, is sponsored by MSU’s Office of Research and Economic Development and the Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President. According to Julie Jordan, MSU Vice President for Research and Economic Development, the program is designed to cultivate the leadership potential of outstanding faculty. She stated, “The outstanding faculty on campus have strong leadership potential, and this program teaches the traits and knowledge that will help them lead the university forward as their individual careers progress.”

Program Structure and Objectives

Participants will engage with top university administrators and attend presentations aimed at refining their leadership skills. The curriculum covers a variety of topics, including leadership styles, communication strategies, organizational change, and strategic budgeting. Faculty members will also learn about building effective research teams and understanding university funding structures.

The 2025-26 cohort includes diverse talents from various disciplines, such as:

– Peter Allen, Associate Professor, Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture
– Kenny Anthony, Department Head, Teacher Education and Leadership
– Christy Bratcher, Department Head, Animal and Dairy Sciences
– Kayla Carr, Associate Professor, School of Nursing, MSU-Meridian
– Qiana Cutts, Associate Professor, Counseling, Higher Education Leadership, Educational Psychology and Foundations

Other notable participants include Steven R. Gwaltney, Michael Nadorff, and Alicia Olivier, reflecting a broad spectrum of academic expertise.

Future Opportunities

MSU is committed to fostering leadership development among its faculty. Applications for the 2026-27 Faculty Leadership Program will open in spring 2025, encouraging more faculty members to enhance their leadership skills. For further details about the program, interested parties can visit the MSU Office of Research and Economic Development’s website at www.ored.msstate.edu/initiatives/faculty-leadership-development-program.

Mississippi State University continues to prioritize the growth of its faculty, recognizing their crucial role in advancing the institution’s mission. More information on the university’s initiatives can be found at www.msstate.edu.