Leadership Institute

Reintroducing The NACS Leadership Institute

The NACS Leadership Institute, sponsored by the NACS Foundation, is an investment in the collegiate retailing industry’s emerging leaders. The program will span several months and is designed to equip participants with practical skills and resources needed to lead on their campus and in the industry. The application process has officially closed for the 2023-2024 program.

What to expect

Participants will experience a range of interactive workshops, webinars and hands-on experiences that cover topics such as financial management, marketing, merchandising, customer service and leadership development. The program also provides opportunities to interact with experienced industry leaders, expand your professional network, learn from case studies and best practices, and engage in group discussions and problem-solving exercises. The first few months of the program are conducted using virtual learning tools and resources and will culminate with a three-day conference. 

Interactive Workshops

Webinars

Hands-on Experiences

Networking

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I would highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to see this industry thrive and is invested in being part of that journey. I don’t think I’d have the rewarding career that I have now without the NACS Leadership Institute.

Genta Guitron

Chief Wellness Officer, MSU Bookstore, Inc.

Who should apply?

The NACS Leadership Institute will accept up to 20 participants for the 2023-24 program year. The program is ideal for individuals looking to advance their careers and become successful leaders in their roles. Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years campus store industry experience or equivalent retail-related experience and carry some fiscal responsibility within the store operation (for example, product buying and inventory management, expense management, etc.).


Closely review the program schedule, travel information and the application process prior to submitting your application. If you have any questions about the program, please contact us at leadership-institute@nacs.org.


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Schedule of Events

2023-2024

The estimated time commitment for the program is 10-15 hours each month, for approximately six months. This includes time to complete weekly assignments, periodic virtual meetings with the primary facilitator, and occasional check-ins between you and other designated program mentors. Following the structured virtual learning portion, additional time will be directed to preparing a final presentation. The Institute culminates with a 2 ½ day in-person event in June 2024.


The following dates are tentative and subject to change.

Sept 25 Program Orientation
Oct 2 Kick off meeting, establish teams, introduction of simulation exercises
Oct 16 Facilitator meets with each team, start simulation, review assignments
Nov 6 Facilitator meets with each team to assess progress, resolve challenges
Nov 27 Facilitator meets with each team to review results, resolve challenges
Jan 29 Facilitator meeting to discuss first half results, review assignments
Feb 26 Break to attend CAMEX (not required)
Mar 4 Facilitator meets with each team to review results, resolve challenges
Mar 25 Zoom Forum
Apr 15 Zoom Class
May 22 Presentations
June 19-22 In-Person Cohort Conference (Location TBD)

Travel & Cost

Information

Details for the June 2024 in-person conference coming soon. 

There are no fees required to participate in the Leadership Institution program. However, participants will be required to attend the culminating in-person program conference. Upon completion of the in-person conference a stipend of up to $500 will be provided to offset the travel costs. If the fare is higher than this amount, participants will be responsible for the balance. Meals and lodging will be provided for the in-person portion of the program. 

Application Process

Applications are no longer being accepted.

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1.

Complete your Personal Bio

2.

Provide Responses to Application Questions

3.

Signed Participation Agreement

4.

Signed Supervisor Form
Your supervisor must indicate support of your participation including the necessary time commitments and attendance at the in-person program conference in June 2024. 

5.

Brief Resumé
Outlining applicable relevant skills, experience, and other personal attributes as reflected on your personal bio form or that you wish to be considered.

The application review and participation selection is conducted anonymously by the volunteer-led group, Leadership Institute Steering Committee.

Sponsored by the NACS Foundation.

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