Jenna Finley, Ph.D., Named to 2026 Emerging Leaders Program

Jenna Finley, Ph.D., UNC’s associate vice president for Student Affairs, was recently named to the 2026 cohort of the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU).

Finley is one of 45 higher education professionals selected for this year’s program, which provides participants the chance to explore key topics, including strategic communication, project management, organizational change and the development of a personal leadership approach. Through both structured and informal opportunities to learn from one another, the group will build relationships with mentors, faculty and members of the broader AASCU network.

“This program reflects a strong commitment to developing the next generation of higher education leadership,” said Kristin G. Esterberg, chancellor at the University of Washington Bothell and ELP executive sponsor. “We’re excited to support these professionals as they strengthen their capabilities, broaden their networks and contribute to the future of their institutions and the students they serve.”

During the program, each cohort member will undertake a campus-based project or initiative, working closely with a mentor and receiving guidance from an advisor.

Cohort members met at an in-person seminar in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, June 23, where they collaborated with one another to kick off the program. A series of interactive virtual sessions will be held throughout the rest of the year, where participants will continue their learning and expertise-building, guided by ELP’s faculty and subject matter experts.

Learn more on AASCU’s program page.