This professional development event provides leadership, educational and transitional programming for current graduate assistants and interns from NCAA member schools, conference offices and affiliate organizations. The three-day virtual program educates, develops and connects selected participants and equips attending young professionals with the skills necessary to accelerate their career progression in college sports.

What participants learn

Participants will walk away with valuable insight into college athletics and an in-depth understanding of self-awareness through the DISC assessment. Participants will elevate their individual and group critical thinking skills through the program case study and other experiential learning opportunities. Additionally, participants will gain an expansive network of peers and industry leaders to call upon throughout their professional journey. Through this exposure, participants return to their current roles with applicable skills and knowledge that will help them succeed within their current and future roles.

The program features interactive presentations from prominent industry experts, and NCAA national office executives. Through breakout engagements and panels, participants can explore potential career avenues while building valuable connections within their areas of interest. Additional professional development topics will include mastering difficult conversations, inclusive leadership, navigating the job search, managing others, and more. Overall, participants will strengthen their professional network and knowledge of college sports while building leadership skills that prepare them to succeed personally and professionally.

Who is eligible

Participants must be a current intern or graduate assistant within an athletics department at an NCAA member school, conference office, affiliate organization or the NCAA national office. Individuals must have completed a bachelor’s degree to be eligible to apply for the Emerging Leaders Seminar.

Cost

Learners at the NCAA Emerging Leaders Seminar will be asked to cover the cost of travel to and from Indianapolis for the seminar. The NCAA covers costs associated with lodging, meals and program materials.

How to apply

The online application for the Emerging Leaders Seminar is available via the NCAA Program Hub during the dates listed in the Key dates box above. 

• Emerging Leaders Seminar participant criteria (scoring guidelines) 

Questions?

For information about the Emerging Leaders Seminar, email ldevelopment@ncaa.org.