The Role of Leadership Educators

Leadership, as a discipline; Leadership education, as a field; and Leadership educator, as a profession are rapidly evolving. As professionals in higher education, we are constantly asked to provide opportunities for students to learn leadership, whether that is inside or outside of the classroom. However, very little, if any professional development occurs in how to create such learning opportunities.


The Role of Leadership Educators provides resources for leadership educators in three sections. The first section sets the stage for leadership education and the professional work of leadership educators, culminating with a variety of professional development resources for leadership educators. The second section introduces a leadership learning framework, provides characteristics and examples of strong leadership programs and assessment practices, and describes the transformative practice of leadership education.


The third and final section offers specific instructional and assessment strategies ranging from discussion, case study, and reflection, to team-based- and service-learning to self-assessments, role-play, simulation, and games, to fulfill learning outcomes.


This revised edition has been updated to include new topics such as program development and evaluation, as well as integration and application of generative Artificial Intelligence. Enhanced sections include leadership educator as a professional identity, learning contexts, and expanded coverage of instructional and assessment strategies. New examples and applications are offered throughout this second edition.