Academic Public Health Leadership Institute

The Academic Public Health Leadership Institute (APHLI) is a year-long leadership development program designed to enhance the success of public health leaders.

Through a blended format that includes virtual sessions, executive coaching, and an on-campus program, deans and program directors in ASPPH’s membership can have access to a community of support with opportunities to consult with experts and an extraordinary peer group of colleagues.

Step Into the Future of Leadership with APHLI

Accelerate your leadership journey and join an elite circle of visionary academic public health leaders. The Academic Public Health Leadership Institute (APHLI) isn’t just another leadership program—it’s a transformative experience designed exclusively for Deans and Program Directors in ASPPH’s membership who are ready to make a profound impact on their institutions, communities, and the future of public health.

Why APHLI is a Game-Changer

APHLI is a premier, cohort-based leadership development experience. Through a dynamic blend of:

Virtual Learning

Executive Coaching

An Immersive In-person Retreat

APHLI equips experienced leaders with the mindset, tools, and community to lead through today’s complex challenges.

A High-Impact Learning Journey

Led by the globally renowned Center for Creative Leadership (CCL), a leader in executive education that draws on decades of experience in developing top leaders in academia and public health, APHLI integrates cutting-edge leadership science with the real-world demands of public health academia. You’ll gain tools and insights to:

Harness self-awareness for deeper professional growth and presence
Navigate social identity and equity to lead inclusively and authentically
Leverage emotional intelligence and feedback strategies for stronger team dynamics
Master polarity thinking to transform organizational tensions into powerful synergies
Lead courageous conversations and foster a culture of trust
Take on a Key Leadership Challenge with confidence and purpose
Forge lifelong connections with a select peer cohort who truly understand your world

2025-2026 APHLI Program Format & Key Dates

Learn more about the APHLI program’s key components, including virtual sessions, an in-person retreat, and ongoing executive coaching.

VIRTUAL SESSIONS

September 25, 2025 (11 AM – 1 PM ET)
November 20, 2025 (11 AM – 1 PM ET)
February 27, 2026 (12 – 1 PM ET)
March 27, 2026 (12 – 1 PM ET)

Flagship 3-Day RETREAT

January 27-29, 2026
Colorado Springs, CO
Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and re-energized in an unforgettable setting.

Plus

Personalized executive coaching
Ongoing virtual touchpoints
Access to on-demand resources to extend your learning far beyond the classroom

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is crafted for seasoned deans and program directors in ASPPH’s membership with more than eight years of experience and a demonstrated commitment to formal or informal leadership.

A Selective and Supportive Community

Only 22 participants will be invited to join the 2025–2026 APHLI cohort. This small-group format ensures deep engagement, powerful peer learning, and tailored coaching that makes a lasting impact.

Apply Today

Registration Window

July 25 – August 15 via
my.aspph.org

Fee

$7,000
(includes all program activities and executive coaching; travel not included)

Notification

All applicants will be notified of their status by August 31

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to invest in your leadership, your network, and your legacy.

Questions? Contact Erin Williams, ewilliams@aspph.org.

Voices of APHLI

Amy Fairchild, PhD, MPH

Ohio State

Theresa Byrd, DrPH

TTUHSC

Wayne McCullough, PhD

MISU MPH

Hilary Godwin, PhD

Washington

APHLI Scholars

Eyal Oren, PhD, MD

SDSU

“APHLI was a unique opportunity for self-reflection related to one’s own leadership strengths and areas of growth. It focused heavily on developing skills that are necessary for effective leadership. I had previously participated in other leadership trainings, however, APHLI was the only one that truly impacted my leadership style.”

Hala Madanat, PhD, MS

Interim Vice President for Research and Innovation and Distinguished Professor, San Diego State University

“The Institute challenges you to critically reflect on how you “show up” in the eyes of others, discover new ways to better leverage your strengths, and sets you on a trajectory for ongoing professional improvement.”

Billy Oglesby, PhD

Interim Dean and Associate Professor, Thomas Jefferson University, College of Population Health – MPH Program

“I came out of the APHLI program feeling better equipped AND better supported. The Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) team provided constructive, actionable feedback and the tools that I needed to make up my leadership game. Equally importantly, the program facilitated a deep bond with the other deans and directors in my cohort.”

Hilary Godwin, PhD

Dean, University of Washington School of Public Health