The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) has announced its 2025-2026 cohort for the Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI)—one of the most respected programs designed to prepare higher education professionals from underrepresented communities for senior executive leadership roles.
This year’s 26-member cohort officially begins its leadership journey June 11–14 in Washington, D.C., as part of the initiative’s 26th class.
Established through the vision of AASCU’s African American presidents, MLI offers intensive leadership development to senior-level administrators, particularly those aiming for presidencies and chancellorships at public institutions. Participants receive direct mentorship from sitting presidents, engage in hands-on training, and gain insider insights into the realities of executive leadership in higher education.
“We are proud to welcome this next class of dynamic leaders to MLI,” said Dr. Charles L. Welch, AASCU President and CEO. “Their perspectives and experiences are needed now more than ever as higher education continues to evolve.”
MLI’s programming spans a full year and includes strategic coaching, executive simulations, and access to a powerful national network. The initiative is especially relevant now, as institutions work to reflect the growing diversity of today’s student population—many of whom are first-generation, low-income, and students of color.
To date, more than 777 higher education professionals have completed MLI. Many have advanced into presidencies, vice presidencies, and other cabinet-level roles.
The 2025 cohort represents a range of institutions—from urban public universities to Historically Black Colleges and Universities—and collectively brings a wealth of experience across student success, academic affairs, operations, and institutional strategy.
MLI is one of several AASCU leadership development offerings, alongside the Emerging Leaders Program and the Academy for New Provosts. Together, these programs support a pipeline of equity-minded leaders prepared to drive transformation across public colleges and universities.