Panelists: Dennis Livesay (Michigan Technological University) and Jamie Payton (New Jersey Institute of Technology)

Moderator: Manuel Pérez-Quiñones (University of North Carolina at Charlotte)

This is our kickoff session – a bit of a “warmup” for the Leadership Academy – designed to spark discussion and reflection on key ‘big picture’ questions surrounding leadership in computing. We’ll explore the various leadership roles in academia, professional societies, and government. What does effective leadership look like in these positions, and why is it so essential? What qualities define a successful computing leader? We’ll also discuss the intrinsic rewards of leadership, common strategies for success, and how to anticipate and navigate leadership challenges. This session will take the form of a moderated fireside chat with Dennis Livesay and Jamie Payton, with opportunities for Q&A from Leadership Academy participants.

Panelists: Dilma DaSilva (NSF, Academia), Alex Wolf (ACM, Academia), and Divesh Srivastava (AT&T Research, Industry)

Moderator: Rachel Pottinger (University of British Columbia)

There are many different types of leadership possible within the scope of the CS Research/Education community. In this session, the panelists will talk a bit about some of their different leadership roles (e.g., academic, research communities, funding agencies), how they got there, what those roles are like, and what characteristics have helped them to thrive in those positions. Participants will have a chance to reflect on what characteristics they have and what roles they might be appropriate for. Participants will also have a chance to ask questions and interact with the panel.

Organizer: Stephanie Ludi (University of North Texas)

There are many paths to leadership, as well as ways that leadership exists.  Some of these roles are associated with leadership, while others may not be as obvious.  In this session, participants will explore leadership in a personal way and learn from the experiences of others. At the start of this session, participants will be given short writing prompts that will inform the activity. The activity, to be conducted in small groups, will then allow for both individual and small group discussion and reflection on types and styles of leadership. Participants will use this activity to help them identify areas of opportunity and challenges in terms of personal leadership interest.

With the CRA Leadership Academy, CRA Board Meeting attendees, and CI Fellows.

With Isaacson, Miller representatives and Tracy Camp (Computing Research Association)

Moderator: Dennis Livesay (Michigan Technical University) 

The search for CS leaders in academia and non-profits often engages the services of a search firm. In this session we’ll discuss how search firms partner with committees and decision makers in executing a successful national search; the mechanics/steps a search firm takes during the recruitment process; and how, as emerging leaders, you might consider navigating leadership opportunities and searches.

1. Behind the scenes of a search: Understanding the search process mechanics and strategy
2. Roles and responsibilities of the firm and search committee
3. Candidate perspective: how to engage in a search process and tell your story
4. Q&A

Speaker: Nigamanth Sridhar (Cleveland State University)

How you handle difficult situations plays a definitive role in shaping how others perceive you. In this session, we’ll explore strategies for effectively managing challenging conversations and decisions. While no single approach works in every situation, we’ll discuss key principles that can help you develop a tailored strategy for any circumstance. In this session, the speaker will draw from experiences of a significant transformation at a mid-size university and present lessons learned from this transformation.

Panelists: Carla Brodley (Northeastern University) and Bruce Draper (Colorado State University)

Moderator: Manuel Pérez-Quiñones (University of North Carolina at Charlotte)

This session will explore the multiple directions/dimensions of managing. Often we think of management as “supervisory” roles, but leaders must also manage their bosses (up), their peers (laterally), and even other personnel in the organization. We will discuss the differences between leading and managing and present examples of managing laterally, up, & down. We will also discuss different approaches towards leading and managing faculty, staff, and research groups.

Participants will have the opportunity to talk to organizing committee members and invited speakers about pre-selected topics.

with Bruce Childers (University of Pittsburgh) 

Moderator: Dennis Livesay (Michigan Technical University)

This wrap-up session will bring together the key insights from the leadership academy. We’ll revisit the major themes, highlight the most valuable advice shared, and connect the insights together. You’ll also receive practical tips on applying what you’ve learned and identifying when you’re ready to step into a larger leadership role.