Building Leaders from Within: A Collaborative Approach to Succession Planning and Leadership Development in Higher Education HR

Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) has pioneered a free Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration program for current employees. This innovative approach to leadership development has been significantly influenced by human resources (HR). The program’s flexibility, accommodating busy work schedules, and holistic approach to leadership development have contributed to its success. Participants benefit from biweekly senior leadership talks and a specialized HR course on strategic talent development. The program’s impact is evident in the career advancement of its participants, with many transitioning to larger leadership roles. This initiative exemplifies the power of collaboration between academia and administration, demonstrating the positive outcomes that can be achieved when diverse perspectives converge for the collective benefit of the institution.