Nominations Open Through Oct. 31 for LEAD Professional Development Program

Human Resources is accepting nominations for the fifth LEAD cohort, continuing The University of Toledo’s commitment to professional development and personal growth.

Launched in 2021, the LEAD program provides emerging campus leaders an opportunity to hone their skills through monthly courses taught by subject matter experts, career and leadership coaching, mentoring with campus leaders and the completion of a yearlong project.

Launched in 2021, the LEAD program provides emerging campus leaders an opportunity to hone their skills through monthly courses taught by subject matter experts, career and leadership coaching, mentoring with campus leaders and the completion of a yearlong project.

“The LEAD program is for anyone looking to elevate their professional development while networking with fellow colleagues,” said Kimberly Fahey, director of training and organizational development. “This program supports The University of Toledo’s strategic plan to help attract and retain the best and brightest talent. The participants will hear from a variety of senior leaders and gain valuable insights into different aspects of higher education, academic medicine and exemplary leadership practices.”

“As a 2025 LEAD participant, I have found this program to be an incredibly meaningful and transformative experience,” said Begüm Gocmen, staff development specialist for UTMC. “LEAD is more than a professional development opportunity, it is a journey that challenges you to grow, reflect and lead with intention.

“What stands out most to me is how thoughtfully the program is designed. Each session is engaging, relevant and led by HR professionals and leaders from across the organization who share practical insights and real-world experience,” Gocmen added. “These interactions create a valuable space for learning, connection and shared growth. Being paired with a mentor has been another highlight of the program. This experience has already had a lasting impact on the way I approach leadership, and I am excited to continue applying what I have learned.”

Umeeksha Sharma, project manager in the Department of Medicine and a 2025 LEAD participant, said the LEAD program has been an inspiring journey that encouraged her to embrace fresh perspectives on leadership.

“Each session was thoughtfully curated, offering practical tools, engaging discussions and meaningful takeaways that built upon one another,” Sharma said. “Beyond the skills and knowledge, it created a supportive community of colleagues equally passionate about growth and collaboration. I am grateful for the mentorship, shared learning and connections that continue to influence the way I lead and support others.”

Interested staff members should complete an application form expressing their interest. Additionally, deans, vice presidents and other senior leaders may recommend an employee by submitting a nomination form on his or her behalf. Forms and additional information are available at the LEAD Program website.

The nomination period is open through Friday, Oct. 31. Participants selected to the program will be notified by the end of November. The LEAD program runs from January through December 2026.

In addition to the LEAD Program, The University of Toledo offers other professional development opportunities for employees including open workshops such as CliftonStrengths, Emotional Intelligence and Leading When Not in Charge as well as many others.

Additionally, the Training and Organizational Development team offers management and leadership training, including New Manager Trainings, Succession Planning and the Leadership Development Series. UToledo also has partnered with LinkedIn Learning to provide more than 16,000 online training courses available to all staff and faculty.