Senior Leadership Development Program
Why SLDP? : Topics : Capstone : Timeline : Becoming a Fellow
Applications for the 2025-26 cycle will open in May 2025.
Strengthening Leadership Across Osteopathic Medical Education
The SLDP is a practice-based leadership journey designed for future deans, department chairs, and senior administrators across Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (COMs). Through small, interactive cohorts and individualized mentorship from experienced COM deans, participants build a national network and develop critical leadership competencies.
The 2025–2026 program unfolds across three phases and combines in-person sessions, live webinars, and on-demand resources. Fellows engage in peer group capstone projects addressing real-world challenges in osteopathic medical education, create a Career Development Plan, and present their work at Educating Leaders, AACOM’s Annual Conference
The 2025–2026 program strengthens personal, organizational, and administrative leadership competencies through a three-phase curriculum, a career development plan, peer group capstone projects, and individualized mentorship. Fellows learn through a mix of in-person sessions, live webinars, and on-demand resources.
By the end of the Senior Leadership Development Program, participants will be able to:
- Manage conflict and negotiate successfully
- Enhance learning and deliver effective feedback in OME
- Recruit, develop, and retain outstanding faculty
- Lead organizational change and drive innovation
- Develop strategic plans and manage budgets effectively
“The best word I can use to summarize my SLDP experience is “Inspirational.” I left every session feeling absolutely inspired by the speakers, mentors, collaboration with peers, and network with COM Deans and SLDP Alumni. I’m leaving this experience motivated to continue my journey to lead with purpose and help shape the future of osteopathic medical education.”
Joy Zarandy, DO, FAAFP; PCOM Georgia, Assistant Dean of Clinical Education
Phase I
Personal and Interpersonal Competencies for Leadership
- Personal leadership planning
- Self-awareness and emotional intelligence
- Conflict management and peer coaching
- Mentoring and supporting struggling learners
Phase II
Organizational Dynamics
- Strategic planning, budgeting, and organizational change
- Technology, AI, and research in osteopathic medical education
- Project management and peer collaboration
- Professional identity formation, networking, and resilience
Phase III
Administrative Competencies for Leadership
- Faculty recruitment, development, and retention
- Legal issues
- Accreditation preparation
- Transitioning into leadership roles
What is the Capstone?
Fellows collaborate in peer groups to develop a Capstone Project that addresses real-world challenges in osteopathic medical education. Projects are presented as posters at Educating Leaders, AACOM’s Annual Conference, to showcase innovative solutions to the broader osteopathic medical education community.
“As the newly appointed Associate Dean, Preclinical Sciences, I have acquired invaluable knowledge that will empower me to elevate our curriculum beyond all expectations. The importance of leadership tools provided has been instrumental in shaping my approach and ensuring a successful trajectory for our academic programs.”
Dr. Amanda Parker, Associate Dean, Preclinical Sciences, William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine
General Timeframe
The SLDP spans ten months and includes a blend of in-person, virtual, and on-demand learning. The program features 4.5 days of onsite sessions, 6 hours of virtual training, 1.5 hours of on-demand content, and additional online meetings scheduled by peer groups.
- July Virtual Orientation
- August 5-6, Atlanta, GA
- September-October, virtual
- November 16-17, Scottsdale, AZ
- January 13, webinar
- February 10, webinar
- March 12, webinar
- April 21, Las Vegas
Becoming an SLDP Fellow
Participation in AACOM’s Senior Leadership Development Program (SLDP) begins with a nomination from the main campus dean of a College of Osteopathic Medicine (COM). Once nominated, individuals will receive an application form to complete the enrollment process.
Ideal candidates for the SLDP include department chairs, assistant or associate deans, program directors, or faculty members who have demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to advancing osteopathic medical education.
There is no tuition for the 2025–2026 SLDP; however, participants are responsible for covering their own travel expenses for in-person sessions.
Individuals interested in participating are encouraged to contact their main campus dean regarding nomination; main campus dean should send email to Lbragan@aacom.org with the nominees name and email address.“This program allowed me to improve on my current leadership skills, meet colleagues that had [the] same goals and objectives in wanting to improve and enhance medical education. The advisors/mentors were excellent in helping with my growth as a leader. This program was so worth it.”
John T. Pham, DO, dean and chief academic officer, UIWSOM
“This opportunity to collaborate with colleagues who are all focused on advancing osteopathic medicine and education is refreshing and very worthwhile!”
Anonymous SLDP participant
“Amazing program! The structure of a small team that works together with a mentor throughout the program was a unique approach that I had not experienced with other leadership programs. This allowed simultaneously development and networking. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a comprehensive leadership development experience.“
Matthew K. Henry, PhD, Des Moines University Assistant Dean for Preclinical Education & Department Chair