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Vice-President Academic and Provost

Foundational Academic Leader Development Program

The Foundational Academic Leader Development Program supports academic leaders in developing leadership identity, clarity and confidence as they transition into their roles as chairs, directors and associate deans.

The cohort-based program combines orientation sessions, in-person and self-directed learning opportunities and peer-to-peer mentorship. By offering multiple engagement formats, the program allows academic leaders to participate in ways that are flexible, relevant and fit their development needs.

Pillars and outcomes

The program and its courses are guided by four pillars of key learning:

  • Advanced university governance
  • Financial and operational management
  • Labour relations
  • Mentorship and leadership

Through these pillars, the program focuses on the practical realities of academic leadership, helping participants build operational fluency in areas such as budgeting, HR processes, governance and decision-making.

Orientation

A full-day session for new chairs, directors and associate deans will provide an understanding of university governance, labour relations and available resources, as well as how to support faculty in your school or department. Orientation is scheduled on September 1, 2026 and program participants will receive an Outlook calendar invitation with a formal agenda.

Courses

Courses for 2026/27 are still being finalized. A schedule will be shared with participants over the summer.

Mentorship

Mentorship and community building help leaders build networks, learn from experienced colleagues and develop a sense of belonging within the UVic community. Initiatives are often led locally by faculties, disciplines and affinity groups. A list of known affinity groups is available on the VPAC website.

FAQs

The program is desigend for first-term chairs, directors and associate deans. 

If you are not new to your role but still interested in joining the program, please contact facultyrelations@uvic.ca as there may be opportunities for you to participate.

Participants are invited to attend an in-person orientation on September 1, 2026. Courses and will begin in fall 2026.

Program participation is strongly encouraged as part of professional development and institutional support. Orientation and some training courses are mandatory.

No. The cost of all programming is supported by the Office of the Vice-President Academic and Provost (VPAC).

Other questions about the program? Contact facultyrelations@uvic.ca.