Leadership Academy in Action

Strong universities are built by strong leaders, and every student success story is supported by employees working behind the scenes. At Texas A&M University-San Antonio, the Leadership Academy cultivates a culture of collaboration, innovation and service by investing in the professional growth of its employees. These dedicated faculty and staff members guide teams, navigate change and create the best possible experience for students.

Soon beginning its sixth cohort, the three-year program helps faculty and staff strengthen leadership skills and think strategically about how they can make a greater impact. As participants grow personally and professionally, they return to their roles better equipped to support students and advance the University’s mission.  

For Aaron Jaggers, assistant director of recreation and head esports coach, the Leadership Academy provided a rare opportunity to step away from his daily duties and think bigger.  

"This was a special day once a month that was set aside for my professional development," he said. “It was a chance to pause, reflect and become more intentional about how I lead my team and support students.”   

Whether supporting student life, helping students navigate challenges or improving campus services, Leadership Academy graduates like Jaggers return to their departments with stronger communication, collaboration and decision-making skills.   

The interactive program is designed to strengthen existing leadership abilities while preparing employees for greater responsibility. Through presentations, discussions and hands-on activities, participants explore leadership principles specific to higher education while building relationships with colleagues from across campus.  

The curriculum is intentionally progressive. During the first year, participants focus on foundational leadership skills such as delegation, time management, prioritization and working effectively with others. The second year focuses on leadership in higher education and how leadership styles align with the University's culture and mission. In the final year, participants gain a broader understanding of The Texas A&M University System and A&M-San Antonio's role within it.  

For Yaribel Caraveo, assistant director in the Office of First-Year Experience, the Leadership Academy came at the perfect time.  

After completing her master's degree, Caraveo was looking for new opportunities to continue her professional growth. Encouraged by colleagues and supervisors, she joined the program's third cohort to develop her leadership skills further and explore new ways to contribute to the University.  

The cohort model brings together employees from across campus, creating opportunities to exchange ideas, ask questions and gain a deeper appreciation for the work happening in other departments.  

"The overarching theme through the three years is the reflection component," Caraveo said. "This program allowed us an opportunity to step away and really examine how we lead and ways to improve.”    

Participants apply what they learn to their daily work, strengthen communication, build stronger partnerships across campus and make more informed decisions. They also leave with a broader understanding of how every department contributes to creating an exceptional student experience.  

As A&M-San Antonio grows, developing leaders from within remains essential to the University's future. By investing in the people who serve students every day, the Leadership Academy strengthens the entire campus community. Better-equipped leaders create stronger teams, more effectively support their colleagues and, ultimately, provide an even greater experience for the students who call A&M-San Antonio home.