According to the NLF website, the organization was created to build “a framework to identify, develop, and advocate for information and technology professionals in higher education, with a special emphasis on those who identify as Black, Indigenous, people of color.”
Those chosen will participate in a one-year experience in which “they will be mentored by accomplished senior leaders committed to supporting their professional growth.” The program will cover “topics that include emotional intelligence, organizational behavior, budgets and financial planning, and design thinking,” and is designed to complement existing leadership development programs.
The NLF is directed by Michael Cato, Bowdoin College senior vice president and chief information officer. Bowdoin is the lead sponsor of the NLF, in partnership with EDUCAUSE, the NorthEast Regional Computing Program (NERCOMP), and MOR Associates.
NLF programming and events for the inaugural cohort kick off at the NERCOMP Annual Conference in March.
