WASHINGTON – The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) has chosen 26 distinguished higher education professionals for its 2025–2026 Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI) cohort. Western Oregon University’s Provost Jose Coll is part of this year’s cohort.
Established in 1999, MLI is a premier leadership development program designed to prepare senior-level education leaders for the rigors of college and university presidencies or chancellorships through workshops, discussions, and practical training. By connecting them to the expertise, experiences, and resources they will need to thrive, participants become equipped to navigate the unique challenges presidents face in today’s complex higher education landscape.
Throughout the program, the cohort will receive mentoring from experienced presidents and shadow their presidential mentors as part of MLI’s immersive experience. This support includes guidance from MLI’s President in Residence Mickey Burnim, who will serve as an adviser to the participants.
Since MLI’s inception, 777 college and university leaders have participated in the program, with 166 going on to become university presidents or chancellors, while 46 have served multiple presidencies or chancellorships.
“We are pleased to welcome the incoming cohort of talented and qualified individuals to MLI as they embark on their professional journeys to fill presidencies, chancellorships, and other senior-level vacancies in higher education,” said AASCU President and CEO Charles L. Welch. “For more than two decades, MLI has built a strong and lasting network of higher education leaders who reflect the rich perspectives and experiences of our nation and the students we serve.”
Programming for the 2025 MLI cohort took place June 11–14 in Washington, D.C. View this year’s cohort.
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About The AASCU
The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association that represents the sector of over 500 regional public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underrepresented student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions delivering America’s promise.
About Western Oregon University
Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.