Mancini among Higher Ed Leaders Selected for 2026-27 Executive Leadership Academy
Michael Mancini, vice president of Institutional Strategy and chief operating officer at Thomas Edison State University (TESU) is among a new cohort of higher education leaders gathering in Washington, D.C., this week to begin the Executive Leadership Academy (ELA), a distinguished program designed to prepare experienced administrators for senior executive roles across colleges and universities.
ELA is offered through a collaborative partnership among the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), and the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI). Together, these organizations provide participants with a comprehensive experience that emphasizes leadership development, mentorship, and professional networking.
Mancini has served at TESU since 2018 and is the President’s chief advisor, providing strategic counsel that supports informed decision-making and advances the university’s mission. He works closely with administrators across all levels of the institution, guiding complex initiatives and ensuring effective collaboration and operational excellence.
He oversees a broad portfolio that includes Marketing and Communications, Management Information Services, Staff Development, Institutional Research, Events and Special Projects. In addition, he manages the operations of both the President’s Office and the Board of Trustees, ensuring efficient coordination, strong governance, and effective support for presidential priorities. A key focus of his work is driving organizational effectiveness through business optimization and continuous process improvement.
Prior to joining TESU, Mancini served as Chief of Staff at SUNY Empire State University in New York. A former fellow of the Lead New Jersey program, he currently serves on the Lead New Jersey Board of Trustees and as Vice Chair of the United Way Board of Directors.
“Michael has been an invaluable leader at Thomas Edison State University, helping to guide strategic initiatives that have strengthened our institution and expanded opportunities for the students we serve,” said Dr. Merodie A. Hancock, president of Thomas Edison State University. “His selection for the Executive Leadership Academy is a well-deserved recognition of his talent, dedication and potential. I am confident that the experience will further enhance his ability to lead in a rapidly evolving higher education environment, and I look forward to seeing the impact of his continued growth as a higher education leader.”
The program opens with the first of two in-person seminars on June 15–16, bringing cohort members together for an intensive learning experience led by current and former presidents, as well as subject matter experts, addressing key issues shaping higher education today.
“At a time of significant change across the higher education landscape, programs like ELA play a critical role in supporting and preparing the next generation of institutional leaders,” said Charles L. Welch, AASCU’s president and CEO. “Through our partnership, we are proud to invest in leaders who are deeply committed to their campuses and communities.”
Following a competitive selection process, 36 higher education professionals have been chosen for this year’s cohort. Representing a broad cross-section of institutions, participants include senior leaders such as provosts and vice presidents who are preparing to step into presidential and chancellor roles.
“Independent colleges need strong, prepared leaders now more than ever," added CIC President Marjorie Hass. "ELA connects growth-minded professionals with the industry insights, peer networks, and strategic development they need to lead confidently through higher education’s evolving challenges.”
Since its inception in 2009, ELA has cultivated a strong pipeline of executives, with many alumni advancing to top leadership positions nationwide. The program equips these leaders with the strategic insight and adaptability required to navigate the evolving demands of higher education.
View more information on the CIC program page or the AASCU program page.