Johnathan Rogers and Gary Cornett complete yearlong statewide leadership-development program

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Effective faculty leadership can strengthen academic quality, encourage collaboration, and help institutions navigate a rapidly changing higher education landscape. Two Kentucky State University faculty members are returning to that work with new skills, perspectives, and professional connections after completing a statewide leadership-development program.

Dr. Johnathan Rogers, assistant professor of mathematics, and Gary Cornett, instructor of mass communication and journalism, completed the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education’s 2025-26 Faculty Leadership Academy in May.

The yearlong academy brings together faculty members from Kentucky’s public two- and four-year institutions who have demonstrated leadership potential. Participants must be nominated by their institutions’ chief academic officers.

Through monthly sessions, mentoring, applied learning, and small-group Faculty Circles, participants examine their individual leadership styles, develop strategies for building trust and collaboration, and gain a broader understanding of institutional governance and Kentucky’s postsecondary education system.

“Being a part of the Faculty Leadership Academy has truly been an honor,” Dr. Rogers said. “Throughout this process, I have learned about my own CliftonStrengths and the potential I have to make change. It has been a very empowering experience, and I am thankful for this incredible opportunity.”

Faculty Circles place participants in small groups with colleagues from other institutions and a faculty mentor. The groups meet throughout the academic year to discuss leadership challenges, exchange perspectives, and apply lessons from the Academy.

Cornett said the program’s collaborative environment allowed him to learn from faculty leaders with varied roles and backgrounds while building meaningful professional relationships.

“The skills and knowledge gained are a welcome addition to my set, and the networking with other educators was top-notch,” Cornett said. “I feel I’ve not only made contacts in the profession, but I’ve also made friends and found mentors. I’ve been able to offer things from my plate as well, and we all grew together.”

The Academy also introduces participants to the processes and measures associated with academic quality, the responsibilities of the Council on Postsecondary Education, and the role each institution plays within Kentucky’s broader higher education landscape.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Michael Dailey said the experience will benefit Rogers and Cornett as well as their students, colleagues, and the University.

“Faculty leadership development is an important part of strengthening the academic community at Kentucky State University,” Dr. Dailey said. “Dr. Rogers and Mr. Cornett’s participation demonstrates their commitment to professional growth and their willingness to develop the skills necessary to lead and serve their colleagues, students, and the University. We are proud of their accomplishment and look forward to the ways they will apply what they have learned to advance academic excellence and student success.”

The Academy concluded with sessions May 19 and 20 at Eastern Kentucky University. Rogers and Cornett were among approximately 25 faculty members selected for the 2025-26 cohort from public colleges and universities across the Commonwealth.

Learn more about the Faculty Leadership Academy through the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education.