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Certificate Program

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Leaders of Excellence and Distinction

Blended Course
2025-2026
2-year Certificate Program

Grow Your Career with LEAD!

LEAD is dedicated to helping UCR staff thrive through professional development and leadership growth. In partnership with Central HR’s Employee and Organizational Development, we offer hands-on training and campuswide collaboration opportunities designed to strengthen your skills and expand your network.

Did you know? Eligible employees may receive up to 80 hours (nonexempt) or 10 workdays (exempt) of paid release time each year for professional development, with department approval. Learn more about Professional Development Leave ›

 

Contact Co-Directors of Professional Development

Alexandra Rollins
Co-Director of Professional Development
Office: (951) 827-4928
Alexandra.Rollins@ucr.edu

Shannon Minter
Co-Director of Professional Development
Office: (951) 827-0273
Shannon.Minter@ucr.edu

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Blended Learning for Real Impact

The LEAD program combines online learning and live virtual sessions for a dynamic, hands-on experience. Most coursework takes place in UCR’s Learning Management System (LMS) and via Zoom, with activities designed to build on each other.

Participants will meet once a month online for the LEAD R’Ship Series and check-ins. These sessions include guest speakers, cohort discussions, and opportunities to apply new concepts directly to your work. Additional meetings may be scheduled as needed by the cohort.

Active participation and completion of all coursework are required for success in this program.

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LEAD’s two-year program builds confident, strategic, and self-aware leaders through hands-on learning and reflection.
  • Develop Self-Awareness: Discover your strengths, growth areas, and leadership style through Franklin Covey courses, DiSC assessment, and eLearning modules.
  • Lead Strategically: Apply key concepts from The 6 Critical Practices of Leading a Team to think strategically, inspire innovation, and achieve lasting results.
  • Commit to Growth: Engage in continuous learning and feedback to strengthen your leadership impact.

After completing Year One, participants will apply their skills in a capstone project, presenting their work to the LEAD Executive Board and campus community.