ACCT Excel: The Trustee Leadership Program

ACCT Excel is ACCT's premier trustee leadership and credentialing program, designed to help community college trustees build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to lead effectively. Through structured learning, digital credentials, and ongoing professional development, Excel provides a clear pathway for trustees at every stage of their leadership journey.

What is ACCT Excel?

ACCT Excel is a cohort-based professional development and leadership development program designed to equip community college trustees with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to lead effectively. Through a blend of self-paced online learning, live educational opportunities, and peer engagement, participants build a strong foundation in community college governance while creating a personalized pathway for continued leadership development.

As participants complete learning experiences, they earn stackable digital badges that recognize their achievements and progress toward the ACCT Excel Certificate of Achievement. Learning modules, digital badges, and cohort collaboration are delivered through ACCT Connect, ACCT's online learning and networking platform, providing trustees with a centralized hub for continuous learning and professional growth.

Who Should Participate?

ACCT Excel is designed for trustees who want to:

  • Build a strong foundation in community college governance
  • Strengthen their leadership and decision-making skills
  • Stay informed on emerging issues impacting higher education
  • Demonstrate their commitment to continuous learning
  • Connect with fellow trustees from across the country

How the Program Works

Apply → Complete Core Modules → Earn Badges → Receive Certificate → Continue to Advanced Levels

 

Step 1: Apply for a Cohort

Participants begin their Excel journey by joining one of our learning cohorts. Cohorts provide a structured timeline, opportunities to engage with fellow trustees, and guided progress through the program.

Current Enrollment Schedule

  • Cohort 2: Applications close July 31, 2026 - APPLY HERE
  • Cohort 3: Applications open January 1, 2027

Step 2: Complete the Core Modules

All participants begin by completing the required Level 1 foundation modules:

  • Governance 101
  • Advocacy 101
  • Parliamentary Procedure

These modules establish the essential knowledge every community college trustee should have.

Step 3: Continue Your Learning

After completing the core modules, participants expand their knowledge through a variety of educational opportunities, including:

  • Live and on-demand webinars
  • Conference sessions
  • Educational toolkits and resources
  • Additional online learning modules

Participants earn digital badges as they complete learning activities.

Step 4: Earn Recognition

Participants who complete the Level 1 requirements and earn badges across the required learning categories receive the ACCT Excel Certificate of Achievement.

As new levels and learning opportunities are introduced, participants can continue building their knowledge and earning additional badges throughout their trustee leadership journey.

The Five Badge Categories

Every learning activity in Excel earns a digital badge. As you complete learning across the five competency areas, you'll build a portfolio that reflects your ongoing professional development.

 

  1. Fundamental Responsibilities (Color: Blue)
    Core duties of trustees, including governance basics and fiduciary responsibilities.
    Example Badge: Governance 101

     

  2. Governance Best Practices (Color: Green)
    Strategies for effective board leadership and collaboration.
    Example Badge: Advocacy 101

     

  3. Legal & Compliance Essentials (Color: Red)
    Understanding laws, regulations, and compliance requirements for trustees.

    Example Badge: Parliamentary Procedures

     

  4. Key Issues for Community Colleges (Color: Orange)
    Critical topics shaping the future of community colleges, such as funding and student success.

    Example Badge: Congress Attendee

     

  5. Additional Learning Opportunities (Color: Dark Blue)
    Elective modules and enrichment experiences beyond the core curriculum.

    Example Badge: Committee Member

     

    Certificate Requirement:
    Complete at least one badge in each category to earn your ACCT Excel Certificate of Achievement.

Why Participate?

Excel helps trustees:

  • Develop practical governance knowledge
  • Make more informed board decisions
  • Stay current on emerging issues in higher education
  • Build a national network of trustee peers
  • Receive recognition for professional development

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in ACCT Excel?

Current ACCT trustees are eligible to participate in Excel through scheduled cohort enrollment periods.

How long does it take to complete Level 1?

Participants complete the required modules at their own pace during the cohort period.

What is a digital badge?

Digital badges recognize completion of specific learning experiences and demonstrate achievement in key areas of trustee leadership.

How do I earn the Certificate of Achievement?

Complete the required Level 1 modules and earn at least one badge in each of the five learning categories.

Will additional levels be available?

Yes. Excel is designed as a multi-level learning pathway that will continue to expand with new content and advanced learning opportunities.

 

Take the Next Step in Your Trustee Development

Stay tuned for updates and registration details.