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.

From whom is this program?

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 Vicki Blocker or Nita Skillman.

*Note applications are now available HERE will be accepted until 5:00pm, Friday, March 7th.

Who is coordinating MLPI for 2025-2026?

Co-Coordinators:

Vicki and Nita will provide continuity to the program and logistical support for the 2025 – 2026 MLPI program.

2025-2026 Facilitators

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.