Dr. Frank-Alston Participates in Harvard Institute

NETC President Dr. Melissa Frank-Alston recently joined 63 newly appointed college presidents from across the country at the Harvard New Presidents Institute, hosted by the Harvard Graduate School of Education the week of July 20.

The Harvard New Presidents Institute provides new college presidents with practical leadership strategies and the opportunity to build professional networks and exchange ideas with peers from institutions across the nation. Dr. Frank-Alston connected with fellow leaders from rural colleges, discussing shared opportunities and challenges while exploring innovative approaches to expanding educational access and strengthening local communities.

As part of the institute, new presidents explored topics such as institutional governance, fundraising, senior leadership team effectiveness, strategic planning, and even the evolving role of the modern "digital president."

"This experience has been both inspiring and energizing, with engaging discussions and learning opportunities focused on topics such as governance, fundraising, senior leadership team effectiveness, strategic planning, and the role of the digital president," said Dr. Frank-Alston. "It was great connecting with other rural college presidents and building a network of leaders committed to expanding educational opportunities in their communities. I am grateful to Harvard and the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute for making this opportunity possible."

Dr. Frank-Alston attended the institute through a funding opportunity provided by the Harvard Graduate School of Education in partnership with the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute, making the professional development experience possible for emerging college presidents.

As NETC continues its commitment to student success, workforce development, and regional economic growth, opportunities such as the Harvard New Presidents Institute will help strengthen the college's leadership and position NETC to meet the evolving needs of its students and the communities it serves.

Tags: Career College College Educated College Prepared Community New Programs Pathway Students News