What is the LIT program?
The Leaders in Training (LIT) program is a comprehensive, cohort-based learning opportunity to enhance leadership potential and skills. The program is designed to help participants develop a personal leadership vision, identify their strengths and areas for improvement, and apply their learning in real-world situations. Participants will attend and engage in multiple activities as part of the training, including attending five in-person training days, reviewing content outside of the training classes, participating in small-group activities via Zoom, and implementing a self-identified project during the program based on the knowledge gained.
What are the objectives of the LIT program?
The LIT program aims to:
- Provide a framework and tools to understand and practice effective leadership
- Enhance self-awareness, confidence, and resilience as leaders
- Develop communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
- Expose participants to perspectives and experiences of leadership
- Empower participants to create positive change in their workplace
What are the components of the LIT program?
This cohort-based experience, designed for staff & faculty, provides leadership development through eight weeks of immersive, interactive training. Training is delivered in a blended-learning format, including five full-day, in-person classes, online asynchronous activities, and a participant-designed project for implementation into the workplace. Participants must participate in all training activities to complete this program.
Two-Day Intensive Leadership Bootcamp (in-person)
LIT Days 1 & 2 Information (PDF)
Learning Transfer Activities and FSU-Specific Training Days (in-person, online, virtual)
This development program includes various online activities to support project implementation, enhance leadership potential, and encourage networking amongst participants to build relationships that last well beyond the training. Online training activities are managed independently by participants. Individual teams determine their meeting schedule and topics, with some suggestions being provided. These activities include:
- Small online group meetings with cohort members: Participants will have the opportunity to meet regularly with their cohort teams to discuss their progress, project implementation, ask questions, complete video reviews, and share insights.
- Review & Reflect: Review and reflect upon knowledge gained through topic prompts and facilitator-led videos.
- Assignments: Between sessions, participants will complete assignments designed to apply their learning and deepen their understanding of key concepts.
- Working with each other to provide support: Participants will be encouraged to work together, network, and provide support, feedback, and encouragement to one another as they progress through the program.
May 18, 2026 & June 10, 2026
Topics Covered (In-Person): Some participants may have completed the classes listed below in the past. As part of the LIT program, we ask that everyone complete them together to support conversations and program work, even if they have taken them in the past.
- Anti-Sexual Misconduct & Prevention Training
- ADA Understanding the Americans with Disabilities Act
- Performance Management
- Fundamentals of Discipline
- Family Medical Leave Act of 1993
- Employee Assistance Program
Final Day Implementation Lab (In-Person)
Participants discuss how they have applied the knowledge and skills gained during the program, sharing what is working and any challenges they have encountered along the way. Classmates and the facilitator brainstorm solutions to challenges and discuss best practices. The day also involves additional leadership training topics.
What are the requirements of the LIT program?
The LIT program hosts approximately 25 participants in each cohort. The applicant and their manager are required to complete a portion of the application for submission. Participants should obtain manager approval before applying to the program and inform them to expect an email with a link to complete their section of the application. The system will not allow the application to be submitted for review until both the applicant and manager have provided their information in the application process workflow.
Below are the criteria for application to the program.
- (REQUIRED) Has worked at FSU for a minimum of one full-time year as full-time faculty or staff. These do not have to be continuous years of service. (Note: This requirement may be increased to a minimum of 18 months of FSU service, beginning with the next cohort.)
- Has a strong interest and motivation to develop leadership potential and skills
- Desires to actively participate with and engage other participants in positive, thought-provoking, respectful conversations regarding leadership styles and other program concepts
- Has demonstrated leadership experience or potential in their professional setting as described by the manager
- Willingness to commit to the entire duration and expectations of the program, which include attending regular sessions, completing assignments, and participating in projects and activities.
- At least one year of supervisory experience is encouraged but not mandatory at this time.
Application
Applications are now closed for the April 29, 2026, cohort. Please continue to check back or contact Michelle Baragona for additional information.
CONTACT:
Michelle Baragona, Director
Continuous Improvement
jbaragona@fsu.edu
(850) 645-6429
