Vice Chancellor Strategic Initiatives & Operations Robin Parent has been selected for the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) 2026–27 Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI) cohort, a premier professional development program for senior-level administrators.
“I am deeply honored to have been nominated and selected for AASCU’s Millennium Leadership Institute,” said Parent. “This opportunity to learn alongside and from outstanding higher education leaders across the country will strengthen my ability to serve UCCS, our students, and our community as we navigate the future of public higher education.”
Since 1999, MLI has built leaders in executive roles, including college and university presidents and chancellors, through a combination of interactive seminars, peer dialogue, mentorship and executive coaching. The program equips participants with the insight and practical skills necessary to lead effectively in today’s evolving higher education environment.
“Robin’s selection for the AASCU leadership cohort is a well-deserved recognition of her dedication and potential as a higher education leader,” said Kevin Laudner, Interim Provost and Dean of the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences. “I’m excited for the opportunity this experience will provide and look forward to seeing how the knowledge, perspectives, and connections she gains will further strengthen UCCS.”
As part of the yearlong experience, cohort members are paired with seasoned presidents who provide mentorship and opportunities for shadowing, offering firsthand exposure to executive leadership. Participants also benefit from guidance provided by MLI’s President in Residence Mickey Burnim, who serves as a key adviser throughout the program. MLI has supported the professional growth of 803 leaders since its founding.
The cohort is convening this week in Washington, D.C., for program sessions taking place June 10–13. View this year’s cohort.
About AASCU
The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association that represents the sector of over 500 regional public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to serving today’s students, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions delivering America’s promise.