Leadership development isn't built in a single workshop
It develops through experience, collaboration, reflection, and the opportunity to solve meaningful challenges alongside others.
Unlike traditional leadership programs, ELEVATE combines immersive learning with year-long application. Faculty teams begin their journey with a full-day experience at the Educational Leadership Conference, then continue through mentor-supported implementation, interactive online learning, peer coaching, and collaborative reflection throughout the year.
Working alongside interdisciplinary colleagues, each team will identify a real institutional challenge and develop practical solutions while strengthening skills in:
- Emotional intelligence
- Team development
- Creative problem solving
- Communication
- Conflict engagement
- Adaptive leadership
- Strategic planning
- Collaboration
- Curriculum stewardship
- Accreditation readiness
- Responsible use of artificial intelligence
Throughout the experience, participants will receive ongoing mentorship, engage with peers across institutions, and refine projects designed to create lasting improvements within their programs.
A Leadership Experience That Extends Beyond the Classroom
The program begins with a virtual orientation in September before participants gather for an immersive, full-day workshop at ACAPT's Educational Leadership Conference (ELC) in October. Throughout the following year, participants continue learning through:
- Six live virtual leadership sessions
- Faculty mentor check-ins
- Peer collaboration and accountability
- A dedicated Higher Logic community
- Final presentations showcasing project outcomes
Participants may enroll as interdisciplinary faculty teams or individually. Individual participants will be matched with peers to ensure everyone benefits from collaborative learning and shared problem-solving.
Learn from Experienced Academic Leaders
ELEVATE is led by nationally respected physical therapy educators and leadership experts:
Dana Kahl, PT, DPT, EdD, NCS
Dean of the School of Physical Therapy at Arkansas Colleges of Health Education, Dr. Kahl brings more than three decades of leadership experience in clinical practice and higher education. Her expertise centers on leadership development, team effectiveness, student success, and preparing future healthcare professionals to thrive in collaborative environments.
Michael Seils, PT, DPT, EdD, MBA
Clinical Assistant Professor at the University at Buffalo, Dr. Seils specializes in leadership development, innovation in physical therapy education, interprofessional collaboration, and the integration of artificial intelligence into accreditation and academic leadership. His recent work on Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) technology is helping shape the future of accreditation readiness.
Exclusive ELC Benefit
All ELEVATE participants receive an exclusive 50% discount on Educational Leadership Conference registration, making it easier than ever to participate in the immersive kickoff experience.
ELC registration is required and purchased separately.
If you're ready to develop your leadership while creating lasting impact at your institution, ELEVATE offers a unique opportunity to grow alongside colleagues committed to advancing physical therapy education.
Learn more and register