Event Description
Develop emerging talent. Deliver immediate impact.
In today's evolving higher education landscape, your team’s success depends on developing the next generation of leaders now. The EDUCAUSE Early-Career Accelerator Program equips higher ed professionals with 0–7 years of experience with the skills, tools, and connections to take on higher-value projects, drive innovation, and strengthen your institution today.
This two-month hybrid program combines online learning with an exclusive guided experience at the EDUCAUSE Annual Conference. Participants gain practical, foundational skills and return with tangible deliverables their department can use right away.
Identify strengths and actionable steps to enhance your effectiveness and contribution to your team and department.
Design a project or stretch assignment at your institution while applying practical project and change management skills that drive results.
Build confidence analyzing and applying data to support team priorities, improve outcomes, and make evidence-based recommendations.
Understand funding, resource allocation, and campus processes so you can propose and implement initiatives effectively.
Identify emerging developments and challenges and develop strategies that help your team stay adaptable and forward-looking.
When you invest in early-career professionals, you’re not just preparing them for the future - you’re unlocking their potential to create measurable impact now.
Program Schedule
October 2025: EDUCAUSE Annual Conference (In-Person Event)
10/27/25 | Full-Day Preconference Workshop (Nashville)
November 2025
11/5/25 | 12:00 noon–1:30 p.m. ET– Live Session 1 (Online)
11/19/25 | 12:00 noon–1:30 p.m. ET – Live Session 2 (Online)
December 2025
12/3/25 | 12:00 noon–1:30 p.m. ET – Live Session 3 (Online)
12/17/25 | 12:00 noon–1:30 p.m. ET – Live Session 4 (Online)
Registration for the 2025 EDUCAUSE Annual Conference is required.
How to Register
In order to participate in the Early-Career Accelerator Program, you’ll need to add it as an additional item as part of your 2025 EDUCAUSE Annual Conference registration.
- Go to the In-Person Conference Registration page and click on the red “Register Now” button to register for the conference.
- Add the EDUCAUSE Early-Career Accelerator Program as a preconference workshop.
- Complete your registration, and join us in Nashville, and mark your calendars for the four follow-up live sessions.
Program Outcomes
- A ready-to-implement project proposal for immediate institutional benefi
- Expanded connections across higher ed to share insights, resources, and best practices that benefit your institution
- A more engaged, capable, and connected team member - ready to contribute at a higher level
Program Dates
October 27–December 17, 2025
Time Commitment
20 hours, over 2 months
Mentoring
Matched with a mentor for guidance and growth
Who Should Attend?
Early-career higher ed professionals seeking confidence, practical skills, and a supportive network to lead projects and make an impact.
Hybrid Engagement
In-Person @ EDUCAUSE Annual Conference & Online (synchronous and asynchronous)
Credential
Successful completers receive the Early-Career Accelerator Program digital microcredential.
Coaching and Mentoring Opportunities
While in the Early-Career Accelerator Program, you’ll access personalized guidance and support to strengthen your impact:
- Midcareer Mentor: Matched with a midcareer professional to help turn your goals into actionable steps that benefit your current role and team.
- Program Coaching: Work with the Program Advisors during the in-person conference experience and online sessions to navigate challenges, build practical skills, and grow your professional confidence.
Thanks to Our Sponsor
2025 EDUCAUSE Mission Partner
EDUCAUSE Mission Partners work closely with EDUCAUSE staff and community members on key areas of higher education and technology to help strengthen collaboration and evolve the higher ed technology market. Learn more about Ellucian, 2025 EDUCAUSE Mission Partner, and how they're partnering with EDUCAUSE to support your evolving technology needs.