MLPI is now accepting applications for Participants and Facilitators for 2026-2027.

The objective of the Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) is to provide resources, individual and group professional development and a supportive cohort of colleagues for 16-20 mid-level staff members across the university. MLPI learning and development focuses on topics relevant to participants’ current roles as well as the development of strategies for future professional growth and advancement.

Participant Information

How do I apply to be a participant?

MLPI is a developmental experience based on participant interest and supervisor approval. Applications include an acknowledgment that supervisors have been consulted. Each participant’s supervisor should be involved and attend supervisor meetings to foster communication and on-going learning between sessions.

To apply to be a participant, complete the MLPI Participant Application (linked below) by Friday, March 13, 2026 and be sure to first discuss the opportunity with your supervisor along with the role’s commitments detailed below.

Apply to Be an MLPI Participant

Who Qualifies to Participate?

The Mid-Level Professionals Institute is designed for staff members with at least five years of professional experience. Supervising other staff members is not a requirement for entry into the experience. Professional staff applying for the institute should have significant professional experience, whether supervising, managing a divisional or university committee, project management or working with their national governing body. Supervisor support and approval are required as part of the application process.

Why Participate?

Curriculum for the MLPI centers around the development of the following six competencies. Participants will learn more about each competency area, while identifying two competencies around which to create a plan of growth for their own development.

  • Inclusive excellence
  • Leadership
  • Building meaningful relationships and mentoring networks
  • Skills development for higher education professionals
  • Wellness and well-being
  • University decision-making and culture

How is the program structured?

Participants will attend a one-and-a-half-day off-site retreat experience (no overnight stay included) followed by monthly small group or group sessions throughout the academic year and a 360-degree evaluation process facilitated by a professional coach.

The program is led by:

  • 2 overarching MLPI coordinators working with OLPD to coordinate program
  • 4-5 advanced level facilitators (per 5-6 participants) who lead sessions, meet with participants, etc.

What is the time commitment?

All Participants are required to attend each event on the Participant Calendar.

MLPI 2026-2027 Participant Calendar

 

Facilitator Information

How do I apply for a Facilitator role?

Would you like to play a key role in mentoring a small group of fellow colleagues and supporting their professional growth, all while developing your own leadership skills? If so, have you considered serving as a Facilitator for the MLPI program? To apply to be an MLPI Facilitator, complete the application form linked below by Friday March 20, 2026. Please be sure to first discuss the opportunity and its commitments (described below) with your supervisor.

Apply to Be an MLPI Facilitator

Who Qualifies to be a Facilitator?

Facilitators are experienced staff members, typically with five or more years in their field, who value developing others and are interested in strengthening their own leadership skills while guiding participants. MLPI Facilitators are typically Director-level or above and have the support of their supervisor.

Why Serve as a Facilitator?

The Facilitator role is designed as a professional development experience where participants practice and strengthen critical skills such as facilitating sessions and small groups, mentoring peers, and delivering professional development. Facilitators will receive training in these and other leadership activities and a small stipend.

What is the Time Commitment as a Facilitator?

All Facilitators are required to attend all MLPI dates and events. Please download and review MLPI’s 2026-2027 Facilitator Calendar below to ensure that you are able to participate during each date. Please note that program dates may be subject to change, but facilitators and participants will be notified in advance.

MLPI 2026-2027 Facilitator Calendar

 

2025-2027 Coordinators

Co-Coordinators:

Vicki and Nita will provide continuity to the program and logistical support for the 2025 – 2026 MLPI program.

2025-2026 Facilitators

Facilitators are responsible for overall curriculum development and the programmatic aspect of the program. They will serve as small group leaders and lead the cohort through their experience. For more information about them please see their brief biographies here.

Questions?

If you have questions about the program, the participant or facilitator roles, or the MLPI applications, please reach out to the MLPI program coordinators, Nita Skillman and Vicki Blocker.