“I thought it was going to be challenging to fully engage in this training right after the holiday break, but I had no idea what was in store for us! The Leadership Academy 1.0 was highly interactive and engaging throughout, and I am grateful for the opportunity to connect in a meaningful way with so many colleagues from across the system. Mike Walsh kept us on the edge of our seats and laughing all week, bringing the material to life with powerful and relevant anecdotes that were permeated with humor throughout. CCCAOE nailed it with this one! The Leadership Academy delivers an amazing opportunity for personal and professional growth for both emerging and seasoned leaders in the California Community College system. This experience empowered me to seek out ways to build my influence as a leader so I can help drive positive change and advocate for solutions to the challenges we collectively face as leaders in higher education.” – 2025 Attendee

“The Leadership Academy has been a transformative experience that has profoundly impacted both my professional growth and personal development. Through expertly crafted modules, engaging workshops, and invaluable mentorship opportunities, I gained practical leadership skills that I apply daily in my role. The program’s emphasis on real-world scenarios and interactive learning created an environment where theory seamlessly translated into practice.” – 2025 Attendee

“Leadership Level 1.0 was truly amazing. I cannot express how much I enjoyed and appreciated every session and module. Learned so many skills that I can utilize in both my professional and personal life. Definitely made me change the way I see and think things.” – 2024 Attendee

“Leaders come from all walks of life and perspectives, and our ideas for change may vary, but the “why” was united in our group. I gained an insight into the methodology of leading and understanding the technical and behavioral components that have to align in order to have a good balance in our organization of being smart and healthy.” – 2024 Attendee

“As a new dean with zero experience in CTE, I found these modules much more valuable to my work. I would recommend holding the training in December, perhaps the second or third week. This way new deans hired over the summer and fall can participate in this opportunity sooner rather than waiting for the summer.”, “Mike Walsh was amazing, I am so thankful for his part in the Leadership 1.0 it created a nice balance, especially for someone new to the college system who loves human interactions. Win-win!”, Gained so much information, resources, and understanding. Excited and looking forward to learning more tomorrow.”, “As an incoming department chair hoping to inspire faculty to re-ignite passion into teaching so student engagement and equity are front and center, this has been a critical step in recovering from the stress of the disconnect of the pandemic and a way forward to bring other faculty on the journey forward. We can do it – together.” – 2023 Attendee

“Mike is an excellent facilitator. As an incoming Department Chair (and outgoing curriculum chair) the insight into processes and personalities resonated and helped with first steps and setting the tone.”- 2023 Attendee