The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) is pleased to announce the launch of the third annual cohort of our Leading for Equity Fellowship program. The purpose of this fellowship program is to expand the number of leaders of color represented in the C-suite within organizations in the college attainment field.

At college attainment organizations, people of color are often well-represented among student-serving positions, but not in executive leadership. However, professionals of color know firsthand the systemic barriers that can deter students from achieving a college degree. They also are vital role models and transformative leaders.

This yearlong fellowship will provide leadership development and growth to emerging leaders from NCAN member organizations who aspire to become C-suite leaders in our field within the next five years. We will also bring these individuals to the attention of field leaders and search firms.

Read more about the 2023 and 2022 fellows.

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What are the goals of the fellowship?

The goals of the fellowship are to help participants:

• Distill their greatest leadership strengths.
• Build skills in key executive leadership competencies, such as fundraising, organizational management, inclusive leadership, managing team dynamics, and strategic planning. The exact skills that we focus on will depend in part on the expressed interests of the fellows.
• Strengthen their capacity to address systemic issues of power, privilege, oppression, and equity within organizations, communities, and systems.
• Grow their supportive network of peers, mentors, and long-term connections in the field.
• Consider how to identify leadership opportunities that will set them up for success.

How will the fellowship operate?

The fellowship will be conducted largely virtually, with one in-person meeting.

From January through December 2024 (excluding July and August), fellows will meet virtually. Fellows will meet in-person at the NCAN National Conference in Anaheim, CA, in September 2024.

What is the time commitment for fellows?

Once selected, fellows will be expected to:

• Participate in virtual meetings twice per month during regular business hours (up to three hours per meeting).
• Complete one additional hour per month of reading or reflection.
• Be available for all scheduled meetings and commit to the entirety of the year-long fellowship.

How much does it cost to participate?

There is no cost* to the fellows or their organizations for the program.

*Please note that attending NCAN's 2024 National Conference in Anaheim, CA is required, and fellows are responsible for travel and accommodations. 

What will fellows receive during the yearlong program?

• Presentations from experts in the field.
• Participation in facilitated discussions on relevant topics.
• Strengths assessments and relevant coaching aimed at building leadership skills.
• Advice on creating a resume that fully reflects an individual’s expertise.
• Complimentary registration to attend the 2024 NCAN National Conference in Anaheim, CA.
  
• Introduction to a robust network of professional contacts who can assist with career advancement.

Who is eligible to apply?

To apply, individuals must:

• Be full-time staff at an NCAN member organization.
• Be a Director or above and hold (or have previously held) a position that includes responsibility for staff supervision and/or program management.
• Have the support of their organization to participate during work hours.
• Self-identify as a person of color.

How will fellows be selected?

Each prospective fellow must complete an application by December 1, 2023 at 11:59 PM PST. Applications will be reviewed by a diverse panel of NCAN member leaders. We expect this to be a competitive process.

How many fellows will be selected?

12

Where can I get more information?

NCAN is hosting an informational webinar on November 15 at 2:00 PM ET. Register here.

What is the application and timeline?

• December 1, 2023 at 11:59 PM PST: Applications are due to NCAN.
• January 5, 2024: All applicants are notified of their status.
• January 11, 2024: Accepted applicants must confirm their participation and submit a photo.
• January 17, 2024: Launch of the yearlong Leading for Equity Fellowship.

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How Do I Apply?

Ready to start your application? Click here to begin. As a reminder, applications are due December 1. A sample PDF application is also available.

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If you have questions about the fellowship program, please contact NCAN's Chief Program Officer Zenia Henderson at hendersonz@ncan.org.