Staff Leadership Development Institute (SLDI)

The Staff Leadership Development Institute (SLDI) is a year-long professional development opportunity for a select group of staff members within the division of Academic Affairs. This is an outstanding opportunity to learn more about higher education administration, cultivate valuable leadership skill sets, reflect on your own career path, and invest in your future as a higher education leader. 

The SLDI cohorts meet approximately once monthly from September through April, with sessions featuring a mix of assessments, discussion, reflection, guest speakers, and more. The program culminates with project presentations and a celebration of accomplishments at the end of the academic year. This program is also closely aligned with the Faculty Leadership Development Institute (FLDI) that has been around for several years, and SLDI may partner with that cohort from time to time.

All applicants must complete a brief application and include a résumé, letter of interest, and a recommendation form submitted by their immediate supervisor to participate. In order to apply you must be a full-time administrative or classified employee within Academic Affairs with at least one year of experience at MTSU. Employees of all types and levels are invited to apply, whether you are just starting your professional journey or looking to enhance your leadership skills for your current role.  

The application deadline for 2026-2027 is May 31, 2026.

For more information, contact Tyler Henson (Tyler.Henson@mtsu.edu) or Mark Murphy (Mark.Murphy@mtsu.edu).

2026-2027 Cohort Members

Name	Department
Erin Arnold	Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment
Katherine Aydelott	James E. Walker Library
Suzanne Hicks	Professional Science
Ida Houston	MT One Stop
Jenny Marsh	Center for Educational Media
Steven Martenson	Womack Teaching, Learning, and Innovation
Molly Mihm	College of Education
Jake Morris	Accounting
Jeana Nier	University College
Sarah Pruitt	Social Work
John Underwood	Theatre and Dance
Jennifer Waite	College of Basic and Applied Sciences