Education

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"Dr. Eric Bing is a leader among leaders. It has been an honor to be exposed to his knowledge, expertise, wisdom, and wit."

Dr. Keena Bradley
Executive Director of Employee Services and Experience
Aldine ISD

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"I found myself looking forward to each Friday's session and eager to learn from the incredible people I have met through this process."

Dr. Brad Hunt
Superintendent
Coppell ISD

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"District Leadership Fellows helped to equip me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to effectively lead and manage others."

Dr. Darwin Spiller
Executive Director of Title IX Compliance & Investigations
Richardson ISD

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"Above all, the SMU District Leadership Fellows program offered me an opportunity to heighten my leadership effectiveness to better serve my students, staff, and community."

Dr. Bryan Taulton
Superintendent of Schools
Coldspring-Oakhurst CISD

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"District Leadership Fellows expanded my network of colleagues as well as my knowledge of effective leadership."

Mrs. Taylor Williams
Superintendent
Slidell ISD

District Leadership Fellows Program

Leaders of school districts occupy complex roles. They're responsible for setting a vision, executing a strategy, and motivating those around them. To help superintendents and district leaders enhance their leadership capacity in these areas and beyond, the Institute for Leadership Impact developed the District Leadership Fellows program.  This hybrid in-person and online strengths-based leadership development program enhances the leadership abilities of fellows through an intensive year-long cohort.   To date, 134 leaders from 115 districts in seven states have participated in the program. 

Tools 

  • Receive individual coaching 
  • Participate in dynamic in-person and online sessions 
  • Learn from SMU faculty and education experts 
  • Engage with in-house interactive training modules 

Takeaways 

  • Enhance your leadership skills 
  • Better align your work with your personal mission 
  • Apply your learning to a real-world challenge in your district 
  • Expand your network and collaborate with a diverse cohort of peers  
Applications for the 2025-2026 cohort will open in Spring 2025. Interested in participating in the next cohort? Email Christine Ferguson at cjferguson@smu.edu to join the mailing list and receive notifications when applications open.     

“District Leadership Fellows gave me the gift of time.”

Dr. Kermit Ward
Superintendent
Vernon ISD