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About the Course

This innovative leadership development program provides PA State Government senior leaders the opportunity to further develop their leadership abilities to succeed at the highest levels. Developed through a collaboration between Alvernia University, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, and the Governor’s Office of Administration, this unique program gives participants the opportunity to enhance their understanding of PA state government culture and to learn strategies and management techniques applicable to the unique challenges government leaders face.
The program offers:
  • Mentorship & networking opportunities
  • Discussions on prevailing PA state government opportunities, issues and concerns
  • Leadership skills assessment

Target Audience

This course is intended for senior leaders working in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including both agencies on the Governor’s jurisdiction as well as independent agencies.

Learning Methods

The program curriculum is based around case studies, team projects, role playing and scenario planning. Classes offer a “safe space” for senior leaders to discuss issues they may face in their positions while promoting inter-organizational collaboration.

Preparation

To prepare for the Leadership Development Program, each participant will:

  • Take a Personality Inventory
  • Take a Leadership Skills Assessment
  • Complete a short Personal Biography
  • Identify one cross-organizational issue with which they have been involved.

Coaching & Mentoring

Program participants are divided in teams. Each team is assigned a mentor/coach. The mentor/coach meets (virtually) with the team at least once collectively and at least once with each program participant individually.

Class Attendance Policy

Attendance at a minimum of 90% of the sessions is required.

Certification of Completion

Awarding of a certificate of completion will be based on a pass-fail assessment of the program’s curriculum, attendance, and project-based requirements.

Materials

The following materials are included in the cost of the course:

  • PDF versions of slides presented
  • Speaker bios
  • Access to the session recording links in the Learning Management System

Registration Fees

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: $2,500

Application Process

Application Deadline: March 24, 2023

Candidate Application

The application form allows candidates to present their learning goals, past experiences, expertise, and knowledge they will bring to the cohort for consideration.  Candidates will be notified in a timely manner as to their acceptance into the Leadership Development Program cohort.

Nomination Letter
Candidates will demonstrate the support of their senior leadership by submitting a letter of nomination written on their behalf.

The nomination letter should include current position and responsibilities of the applicant, along with skills, knowledge, and any special projects for which the applicant is responsible.

The nomination letter should be addressed to “Leadership Development Program directors” and emailed to ProfessionalEd@HarrisburgU.edu with the subject line as, “Leadership Development Program Nomination Letter for [YOUR FIRST AND LAST NAME]”

Acceptance Notification

Applicants will be notified whether they have or have not been accepted into the program. At that time, accepted applicants will receive full course details and an invoice for the registration fee.

See the specific deadlines under “Next Cohort” at the bottom of the page.

Next Cohort – April-July, 2023

Class takes place in-person at Harrisburg University, 326 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA

DEADLINE TO APPLY: March 24, 2023

Breakfast and Networking 8:00 am – 8:25 am
Class beings at 8:30 am

 

 

 

2023 Schedule

Module #/Topic
Date
Time
Orientation
April 10
1:00 – 3:45
Module 1 – Leadership vs. Management
April 24
8:00 – Noon
Module 2 – Effective Communications & Citizen Centric
May 1
8:00 – Noon
Module 3 – Resilience & Adaptation
May 8
8:00 – Noon
Module 4 – Conflict Resolution & Civility
May 15
8:00 – Noon
Module 5 – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
May 22
8:00 – Noon
Module 6 – Leadership in the Digital Age, Innovation, and Partnering with IT
June 5
8:00 – Noon
Module 7 – Project Success, Project Leadership & Project Management
June 12
8:00 – Noon
Module 8 – Data-Driven Decision Making, Performance Based Budgeting, The Logistics Model Approach – inputs, outputs, outcomes, and impact
June 26
8:00 – Noon
LDP 2023 Year-in-Review & Class of 2023 Graduation
July 13
8:00 – Noon

Logistics

Location

In-Person at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

Contact

Professional Education |  ProfessionalED@harrisburgu.edu

Testimonials

2021 LDP Graduate

“From program organizers and presenters, to classmates and coaches, everyone in the Program shared new perspectives and provided unique opportunities to reflect upon and challenge my own leadership mindset. A fantastic experience that I find myself referring back to on a daily basis.”

2021 LDP Graduate

“After being in leadership, and in the employ of the commonwealth for over 28 years, I was skeptical of what I could learn. I learned something in each session, that I could immediately use, to help improve my abilities as a leader. The opportunity to discuss, learn, and work with other leaders, during the Leadership Development Program, was invaluable and has helped me become a better leader. Anyone who participates in the program, will realize the benefit, during the first module. This program should be used as the basis for all commonwealth leaders.”

2021 LDP Graduate

“This year has been full of new experiences and challenges, such as leading a fully remote team, staying focused during a pandemic, and adjusting to constant change. The Leadership Development Program enabled us to engage with and learn from wonderful teachers, inspirational speakers, and empathetic coaches. They gave us opportunities to connect with other leaders and practice relevant techniques ranging from conflict resolution, diversity and inclusion, learning how to be resilient, and so much more. Whether you have been leading for years or are new to leadership, the Leadership Development Program will help you grow as a leader.”

2021 LDP Graduate

“After being in leadership, and in the employ of the commonwealth for over 28 years, I was skeptical of what I could learn. I learned something in each session, that I could immediately use, to help improve my abilities as a leader. The opportunity to discuss, learn, and work with other leaders, during the Leadership Development Program, was invaluable and has helped me become a better leader. Anyone who participates in the program, will realize the benefit, during the first module. This program should be used as the basis for all commonwealth leaders. Thank you, for allowing me to participate in the program.”

ADA Statement: HU is committed to providing equal education opportunity and full participation for persons with disabilities. It is HU’s policy that no qualified person be excluded from participating in any HU program or activity, be denied the benefits of any HU program or activity, or otherwise be subject to discrimination regarding any HU program or activity. Should you potentially require an accommodation under the ADA to participate in this program, please email ProfessionalEd@HarrisburgU.edu. Please send your request for an accommodation at least 5 business days in advance of the event or program.

326 Market St, Harrisburg, PA 17101
P: (717) 901-5100 Contact Us