Two leaders from the Clinton School of Public Service joined colleagues from across the state for the inaugural University of Arkansas System Emerging Leadership Academy on Aug. 14.
The leaders included Dr. Nichola Driver, Assistant Dean of Impact, and Dr. Lea Metz, Executive Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Admissions.
Held at the UA System office in Little Rock, the full-day leadership development event brought together 47 selected representatives from across all 22 campuses, divisions, and units within the UA System. The academy provided participants with deep insights into higher education governance, system operations, and collaborative leadership strategies.
“It was an honor to represent the Clinton School alongside leaders from across Arkansas,” Driver said. “The academy highlighted how interconnected our campuses are. By collaborating across units, we can better leverage public service, research, and community engagement to drive real impact for students across the entire UA System.”
Throughout the day, participants engaged in discussions with UA System President Jay B. Silveria, members of his cabinet, UA System Board of Trustees members, campus chancellors, and Dr. Ken Warden, Commissioner of the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.
“Gaining a broader perspective on the system’s strategic priorities was invaluable,” Metz said. “As we work to attract and support the next generation of public service leaders at the Clinton School, understanding the broader landscape of higher education operations helps us build stronger pathways and support systems for our students.”
The event also featured a proud moment for the Clinton School’s alumni network. Laura Lehnen, an alumna of the Clinton School Online program who currently serves as Associate Vice Chancellor for Finance and Controller at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith, also participated as an academy fellow.
In a welcome message to the cohort, President Silveria emphasized the vital role of cross-campus leadership development.
“As president of the UA System, I believe we are obligated to continually identify and mentor new leaders across our 22 campuses, divisions, and units,” he said. “The future of the UA System depends on leaders who are committed to excellence, embrace innovation, and work together to advance the success of our students, faculty, staff, and communities.”
Designed to cultivate the next generation of higher education leaders, the Emerging Leadership Academy aims to strengthen long-term connections among campuses, system administrators, trustees, and state officials while driving shared educational excellence across Arkansas.