About The Institute

Nine-Month immersive fellowship curated uniquely around the identities and lived experiences of leaders of color. The National Leadership Institute will center on MCEL’s “Essential Leadership Competencies” for Leaders of Color and our core principles of “Quality, Quantity and Care.”

2026 Session Schedule

Tuition Cost $6,999

Who Should Attend

Superintendents in Residence

The Superintendent in Residence at the MCEL National Leadership Institute serves as a senior advisor and content expert, bringing the full weight of their lived experience as a former superintendent to bear in supporting our fellows. Having served in the highest leadership seat of a school system, they offer a powerful blend of strategic insight, operational expertise, and deep understanding of the complex realities facing today’s educational leaders.

With firsthand knowledge of navigating multi-dimensional systems that serve diverse communities, our Superintendent in Residence bridges the gap between theory and practice. They help fellows make sense of the nuanced interplay between leadership, politics, and policy—especially in an era where public education is increasingly polarized. As both a leadership captain and thought partner, they provide mentorship, facilitate high-impact learning experiences, and ensure that our programming remains grounded in the realities of executive-level leadership.

Dr. Donald Fennoy

Former Superintendent, School District of Palm Beach County Schools, FL

Dr. Paul Cruz

Co-Director, Cooperative Superintendency Program (CSP), Professor of Practice, University of Texas

Elijah Palmer

Sedrick Smith

Brenton Williams

Jamaul Thomas

Jose Soto

Eugene Robinson

Lester Powell

Zack Phillips

No more cohort to show

National Leadership Institute's Goals

Institute Goal #1

Curate a community where leaders of color can be their authentic selves, and focusing on growth and healing.

Institute Goal #2

Analyze your leadership identity, strengthen self-awareness, and skill-building to effectively navigate the unique challenges of being a leader of color.

Institute Goal #3

Develop and unleash innovative approaches to staving off the extinction of men of color in educational leadership.

The Experience: Cohort Learning Model

Our Keynote Speaker

Dr. Eddie Glaude Jr.

National Convening 2025  | Dec. 12-14, 2025