Excellence in Leadership Program



Overview of the Program


The Excellence in Leadership Program (ELP) provides university leaders with an immersive understanding of CU's operations at the system and campus levels. Through monthly sessions, leadership panels and campus visits, participants gain insights into the collective and individual functions of each campus as well as the specific way leaders contribute to and lead their campus. ELP facilitates connections with colleagues, peers and senior leadership across the university system, fostering a broad network. Participants will gain a better understanding of the university context, thereby boosting leadership capabilities within roles and driving success within CU.

ELP group in front of an elevator and marble columns


Program Objectives


  • Gain greater understanding of all aspects of how CU functions as an organization.
  • Cultivate a community among university leaders.
  • Sharpen knowledge and insight to improve leadership capabilities within our diverse university environment.

Program Highlights


  • Staff and faculty participants provide diverse perspectives, creating a rich learning environment and fostering a community of CU leaders.
  • Campus leadership panels are held at each CU campus and CU System, including conversations with the university president.
  • Visit to the State Capitol to explore the connection between legislative advocacy and university objectives.
  • Exclusive meetings for smaller campus cohorts to connect with participants and leaders from their own campuses.

Nomination Process


Nominations for the Excellence in Leadership Program (ELP) on the Anschutz Campus are typically solicited each year from mid-April through the first week of May. The nomination request is distributed by the program liaisons to executive leadership across the campus, inviting nominations for faculty and senior staff leaders who have demonstrated high potential for growth and are currently serving in significant leadership roles.

Eligible nominees include faculty and senior staff, such as Assistant Vice Chancellors, Directors, and similar leadership level positions. Candidates should have a strong record of leadership effectiveness, demonstrate readiness for continued professional growth, and show the potential to make an even greater impact on the Anschutz Campus and the community it serves.

The Excellence in Leadership Program is a prestigious, yearlong, system-wide leadership development experience designed to strengthen leadership capabilities, broaden participants' understanding of the University of Colorado system, and foster a collaborative network of leaders across CU campuses. Nominees are selected through a competitive review process based on their leadership accomplishments, potential for future growth, and commitment to advancing the university's mission.


Nominate an outstanding CU leader for the Excellence in Leadership Award by Wednesday, November 25!

Do you know an impactful University of Colorado leader who has participated in the Excellence in Leadership Program (ELP)? Consider recognizing their contributions by submitting a nomination for the Excellence in Leadership Award.


Program Schedule



Meet the ELP Anschutz Alumni



For More Information


Additional information regarding nomination requirements, selection timelines, and program expectations is provided annually during the nomination period. Individuals interested in learning more should contact their area leadership or the program liaisons, Jan Gascoigne or Debbie Lammers.

Lammers profile

Debbie Lammers

Assistant Vice Chancellor, Learning & Development

Gascoign profile

Jan Gascoigne

Associate Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs

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