Leadership Programs

PEAKS Leadership Consortium

Founded in 2014, PEAKS is a regional leadership development program connecting employees across Central New York’s community colleges. The program emphasizes emotional intelligence, communication, accountability, and collaboration. 

• Who: Faculty and staff demonstrating leadership potential across all areas of the college. 
• What: Cohort-based experience focused on self-awareness, strengths assessment, communication, leadership development, and personal well-being. Build lasting professional connections with peers from Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, Onondaga, and Tompkins Cortland Community Colleges.
• When: Program features two multi-day retreats in the fall and spring, quarterly in-person training sessions, and ongoing engagement throughout the academic year. 
• Selection process: Nominations and selections are made by PEAKS alumni and Cabinet based on past performance and future potential. 

Leadership Ontario

Leadership Ontario is a community leadership program that develops informed, connected leaders across Ontario County. Through direct engagement with local industries, organizations, and civic leaders, participants gain a deep understanding of the region and strengthen their leadership approach. 

• Who: Emerging and established professionals who live or work in Ontario County.
• What: Cohort-based program emphasizing practical leadership skills, expanded cross-sector networks, and insight into key issues shaping the local community. 
• When: Program includes a fall kickoff retreat, monthly full-day sessions with community site visits, and a final capstone experience.
• Selection process: HR collects applications from interested employees and recommends placements. Employees whose roles involve community engagement or external partnership development are encouraged to apply.

Leadership Ontario

NYS Community College Leadership Academy 

The NYS Community College Leadership Academy is a statewide leadership initiative offered by the SUNY Center for Professional Development. Designed to prepare the next generation of community college leaders, the program focuses on advancing student success, and driving institutional transformation across New York’s community colleges.

• Who: Mid-level faculty and staff with demonstrated leadership experience and potential for advancement into senior-level roles.
• What: A selective, cohort-based program offering advanced skills in change management, strategic thinking, equity-minded leadership, guided pathways, data-informed decision-making, student success, and institutional transformation.
• When: Virtual orientation session in the fall, multi-day in-person training sessions at select SUNY campuses, and ongoing virtual collaboration and team-based project work.
• Selection process: Employees submit a resume and letter of interest to HR for internal review and Cabinet nomination. The selected nominees then complete a formal SUNY application. Intended for employees with demonstrated leadership experience, typically including at least three years in higher education.

NYS Leadership Academy