OADN Launches Application for Three Leadership Institute Cohorts
With an evolving landscape in associate degree nursing education, the demand for skilled leaders who can foster a culture of excellence is greater than ever.
OADN is offering exclusive opportunities for ADN faculty and leaders to join one of three cohorts in 2026, bundled with attendance at the OADN 2026 Convention in San Antonio for significant savings. The Leadership Institute combines comprehensive leadership training with the convention experience, creating a powerful platform for professional development, networking, and collaboration.
Cohort Details
OADN recognizes that current leaders and aspiring faculty have unique needs. To address this, we have designed two tailored programs: one cohort in 2026 for nursing faculty preparing to step into leadership within the next five years, and two cohorts for current leaders (deans, directors, chairs, coordinators) seeking to expand their leadership skills.
Cohort 1 (2026): This cohort is designed exclusively for ADN faculty who aspire to move into leadership roles within the next five years. It provides an intentional pathway for emerging leaders by equipping participants with the essential skills, strategies, and confidence needed to transition successfully into administrative or program leadership positions. Nursing leaders are encouraged to nominate faculty who demonstrate leadership potential, making this a valuable investment in the future of their programs.
Cohorts 2 & 3 (2026): These cohorts are tailored for current ADN leaders—deans, directors, chairs, and coordinators—who wish to expand their leadership capabilities. Participants will explore advanced strategies aligned with the pressing challenges of today’s educational environment, including faculty development, resource management, program innovation, and strategic decision-making. The focus is on enhancing existing leadership strengths while preparing for the evolving demands of nursing education.
All three 2026 cohorts will culminate with a final, in-person seminar during the 2026 Convention in San Antonio on November 13.
Why Choose the OADN Leadership Institute?
Tailored Leadership Development: Our programs are designed for both ADN nurse educators and current nursing education leaders, who want to expand their leadership skill set. We offer content and strategies that align with the challenges and opportunities in today’s education environments.
Expert Guidance: Learn from seasoned nursing leaders who bring years of experience, insights, and real-world knowledge to every session. You’ll gain invaluable perspectives that will shape your leadership style and equip you with the tools to inspire change.
A Network of Peers: The OADN Leadership Institute connects you with a community of like-minded professionals—nurses who share your passion for leadership and advancing the nursing profession. Collaboration, mentorship, and networking opportunities are built into every aspect of the program.
Practical Tools for Immediate Impact: The OADN Leadership Institute focuses on practical, actionable learning that you can apply immediately in your practice. From strategic thinking and critical conversations to program management and team building, you’ll walk away with skills that deliver actual results.
Continuing Education & Professional Development: Enhance your credentials with continuing education opportunities that advance your skills and contribute to your professional growth and career trajectory. Attendance at all seminars and completion of all components of the Leadership Institute is required to be an alumnus of the program.
Who should apply?
- ADN Faculty who aspire to an education leadership role within 5 years (2026 Cohort 1)
- ADN Deans and Directors (2026 Cohorts 2 & 3)
How it Works
The OADN Leadership Institute offers flexible learning formats, including synchronous seminars (via Zoom) and online resources, allowing you to pursue leadership training while maintaining your current professional commitments.
Cohort size is limited. Secure your spot today and be part of this transformative experience!
2026 Dates
Application Launch for All Three Cohorts:
October 7, 2025
Seminar Dates (all three hours long)
The start time for all program seminars (except for the in-person meeting in November) is 12pm EST/11am CST/9am PST.
Cohort 1: For ADN Faculty who are planning to move into leadership within 5 years.
Application due date November 28, 2025
January 13, 2026
January 27, 2026
February 10, 2026
February 17, 2026
March 10, 2026
Cohort 2: For ADN Leaders (deans, directors, program chairs, coordinators).
Application due date Feb 20, 2026
April 7, 2026
April 21, 2026
May 5, 2026
May 19, 2026
June 2, 2026
Cohort 3: For ADN Leaders (deans, directors, program chairs, coordinators).
Application due date July 24, 2026
September 8, 2026
September 22, 2026
October 6, 2026
October 20, 2026
November 3, 2026
NOTE: The final seminar for all three cohorts will be conducted live during OADN Convention in November 2026.
Cost
Discounted bundled rate for both the Leadership Institute & the 2026 OADN Convention: Members: $1,500. OADN has a 30-day remittance policy. Payment is due on the following dates for each cohort:
Cohort 1: on 1/9/26
Cohort 2: on 4/3/26
Cohort 3: on 9/4/26
Late fees will be imposed as follows:
5% past 30 days
10% past 60 days
15% past 90 days
How to Apply
Make sure to review the PDF; it includes detailed instructions on the online application portal hosted by Trajecsys:
Step 1: Register for a Trajecsys account
Step 2: Access the Application via the Trajecsys portal
Step 3: Complete & submit the application
Elevate Your Career Today
This is your chance to invest in yourself as a nursing leader or to invest in a current faculty member who has leadership potential. The combination of the Leadership Institute and OADN’s 2026 Convention in San Antonio at a deep discount, is a unique opportunity that you don’t want to miss!! Embrace the challenge, enhance your skills, and join a community of passionate nursing professionals committed to making a difference.
For more information or to learn about partial Leadership Institute scholarships funded by Trajecsys, contact: Karen LaMartina at karen.lamartina@oadn.org
Testimonials
“I still talk to colleagues about this opportunity all the time and feel so fortunate that I went through the OADN Leadership Institute. Participating in this program came at a perfect time as it was instrumental in preparing me to apply for, and ultimately be selected for, a Program Director position. As a new director, I will continue to utilize the many resources that were provided to our cohort and tap into that leadership network. In addition, the mentor experience was incredibly valuable. My mentor and I were so excited to see one another at the convention and look forward to continuing our collaborative relationship.”
Lori Shank, DNP, RN, CPN
Johnson County Community College
Registered Nursing Overland Park, KS
“I wanted to take a moment to express how truly honored I have been to be an alumnus of the OADN Leadership Institute. The experience, mentorship, and insights I gained through the program have been invaluable in shaping my growth as a leader.
I am thrilled to share that, because of the leadership skills and confidence I developed through the Institute, I have recently stepped into the role of Chair of the Allied Health Department. This opportunity directly reflects the knowledge, networking, and professional development that OADN has provided, and I am incredibly grateful for its impact on my journey.
Thank you for fostering such a supportive and empowering environment. I look forward to continuing to apply what I have learned and to supporting the next generation of healthcare leaders.”
Heather Breaux, MSN, RN-BC
Chair of Allied Health
Lamar State College Port Arthur
Allied Health Department
