The objective of the Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) is to provide resources, individual and group professional development and a supportive cohort of colleagues for 16-20 mid-level staff members across the university. MLPI learning and development focuses on topics relevant to participants’ current roles as well as the development of strategies for future professional growth and advancement.

Who is this for?

The Mid-Level Professionals Institute is designed for staff members with at least five years of professional experience. Supervising other staff members is not a requirement for entry into the experience. Professional staff applying for the institute should have significant professional experience, whether supervising, managing a divisional or university committee, project management or working with their national governing body. Supervisor support and approval are required as part of the application process.

How will I benefit?

Curriculum for the MLPI centers around the development of the following six competencies. Participants will learn more about each competency area, while identifying two competencies around which to create a plan of growth for their own development.

  • Inclusive excellence
  • Leadership
  • Building meaningful relationships and mentoring networks
  • Skills development for higher education professionals
  • Wellness and well-being
  • University decision-making and culture

How is the program structured?

Participants will attend a one-and-a-half-day off-site retreat experience (no overnight stay included) followed by monthly small group or group sessions throughout the academic year and a 360-degree evaluation process facilitated by a professional OLPD coach.

Staffing includes:

  • 2 overarching MLPI coordinators working with OLPD to coordinate program
  • 4-5 advanced level facilitators (per 5-6 participants) who lead sessions, meet with participants, etc.

MLPI Sample Calendar

June – Off-site retreat (2 days- 2025 dates TBD *attendance is mandatory)
July/August – Participants meet one-on-one or small group with their facilitator
September – Group workshop
October – Participants meet one-on-one or small group with their facilitator
November – Group workshop
December – mini-retreat (full day off-site retreat)
January – Participants meet one-on-one or small group with their facilitator
February – Group workshop
March – Participants meet one-on-one or small group with their facilitator
April – Group workshop
May – Group final program and wrap-up (celebration with a mentor, VPs and participants)

How do I apply?

MLPI is an optional experience based on participant interest and supervisor approval. Applications include an acknowledgment that supervisors have been consulted. Each participant’s supervisor should be involved and attend supervisor meetings to foster communication and on-going learning between sessions. For information on how to join the Mid-Level Professional Institute, contact program coordinators Lauren Bosselait, senior associate director of corporate and employer relations, or TJ Bowie, director of employee relations and culture.

*Note applications are now available here.

Who is coordinating MLPI for 2024-2025?

Co-Coordinators:

Lauren and TJ will provide continuity to the program and logistical support for the 2024- 2025 program.

2024-2025 Facilitators

The facilitators are responsible for overall curriculum development and the programmatic aspect of the program. They will serve as small group leaders and lead the cohort through their experience. For more information about them please see their brief biographies here.

Anita Hodnett (she/her) joined the Elon community in 2012 and currently serves as the Director of Counseling Services. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor with nearly 20 years of professional experience. Anita, a first-generation college graduate, earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a dual degree in Master of Education and Education Specialist in Counselor Education, all from the University of Virginia. She serves as the faculty/staff advisor for Elon’s chapter of Active Minds, a nationally recognized student organization advocating for mental health awareness. Anita enjoys traveling adventures with her husband and three young children, as well as relaxing at home in Greensboro.

John Ring brings over two decades of industry experience to his role as Director of Engineering Outreach at Elon University. Since joining Elon in November 2019, John has been dedicated to forging industry and community connections, establishing the SPEED (Senior Projects in Elon Engineering Design) initiative, and providing mentorship and career guidance to students. He collaborates closely with departments such as Admissions, Advancement, and Career Services. Previously, John held senior positions as Vice President of Engineering at Enviva Biomass and Director of Manufacturing Engineering at GKN Driveline Americas, where he led capital project management, operational improvements, and strategic planning efforts. A first-generation student, he earned a Master of Science in Management and Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from NC State University, as well as an Associate of Arts & Sciences from Surry Community College. Combining his passion for helping others with his industry background, John serves on the Board of Directors for the Interfaith Council for Social Services in Carrboro, NC, where he chairs the Asset Stewardship Committee.

Nita Skillman (she/her/hers) joined the Elon community in 2012 and serves as the Director of the School of Health Science’s Interprofessional Simulation Center. She is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE) and an active member of several national simulation associations. Nita completed her M.B.A. at Elon University in 2017 and her Ph.D. in education from Liberty University in March 2024. While being passionate about empowering others to align their professional and personal growth goals, Nita looks forward to her second year in the MLPI (Mid-Level Professionals Institute) program, following her facilitator role in 2023-2024.

Greg L. Zaiser has served as Vice President for Enrollment at Elon University since June 2012. Before his current position, he was the Dean of Undergraduate Admissions for six years. A graduate of Elon College, Greg oversees all aspects of undergraduate and graduate enrollment management at the university. A frequent presenter at professional conferences, Greg has developed workshops on various recruitment topics, including international recruitment travel, strategic planning, and marketing in higher education. In addition to his membership in various professional organizations, including the National Association of College Admissions Counseling, Greg has served on the NC ACT State Council, as a faculty member for the College Board’s Enrollment Leadership Academy, and on the ZeeMee advisory board. Most recently, he served on the Common App advisory committee. A two-time survivor of the college admissions process, Greg and his wife, Michelle, are proud parents of two college graduates; one of whom, Noah, is an Elon alum, class of 2020.

Kathy Ziga joined the Elon Community in 2014 and currently serves as the Director of Academic Advising. She discovered her passion for higher education while studying Psychology and playing Division III basketball at Lebanon Valley College in Pennsylvania. Kathy began her journey in higher education in residence life and coaching before transitioning to diversity affairs and then academic advising, where she has thrived for nearly 20 years. She holds certifications from Gallup and Strong Interest Inventory. Kathy believes authenticity is paramount in any endeavor, with self-exploration serving as its foundation. Outside of Elon, Kathy enjoys following the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies, women’s college basketball, and spending time in the mountains or at the beach.