SMU Institute for Leadership Impact

05/29/2026

👏 Congratulations Dr. Tina Nixon!

Through collaboration and shared learning in SMU District Leadership Fellows, they’ve strengthened both their leadership and peer network.

Next year could be your turn: https://bit.ly/DLF-2026-Info

05/28/2026

One of the most valuable parts of the experience? The network.

“The opportunities to network with others are incredibly valuable.”
— Dr. Annie Wolfe, Associate Superintendent for Academics, Spring Branch ISD

Connecting with peers creates space for support, shared learning, and new perspectives.

Learn more about the SMU District Leadership Fellows program: https://bit.ly/DLF-2026-Info

05/27/2026

🌟 Excited to welcome Dr. Sanée Bell!

Through SMU District Leadership Fellows they'll grow as a leader and sharpen their skills. Follow along as their journey unfolds!

Learn more: https://bit.ly/DLF-2026-Info

05/27/2026

Last week before final review begins for the SMU District Leadership Fellows program.

This cohort is designed for district leaders who want to make a greater impact in their districts while continuing to grow their leadership practice alongside peers.

Applications are still open.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/DLF-2026-Info

05/21/2026

🌟 Congratulations Dr. Danielle Reynolds!

They’ve completed SMU District Leadership Fellows, growing as a leader and sharpening their skills.

Ready to grow too?

Learn more about next year's cohort: https://bit.ly/DLF-2026-Info

05/20/2026

🎉 Welcome Ms. Becky Jackson!

They’re joining SMU District Leadership Fellows to grow as a leader and build connections with fellow district leaders. Excited to see them thrive!

Learn more: https://bit.ly/DLF-2026-Info

05/19/2026

What happens when leadership learning turns into impact?

Over the past year, we’ve seen growth turn into real change—through people, practice, and shared learning.

Take a look at what’s possible:
👉 https://blog.smu.edu/leadershipimpact/2026/05/15/a-year-of-learning-celebrating-leadership-growth-and-impact/

05/18/2026

Congratulations Dr. Nivens!

🏆 History has been made.

Dr. Roosevelt Nivens, Lamar CISD Superintendent and Texas Association of School Administrators President-Elect, has been named the 2026 AASA National Superintendent of the Year — making him the first Texas superintendent in 25 years, and only the second EVER, to earn the nation's top honor!!

"Kind, courageous, mission-driven, and charismatic" — the words of TASA Executive Director Kevin Brown say it all. Dr. Nivens is a servant leader who knows firsthand the life-changing power of great schools, and he's spent his career making sure every student gets exactly that.

Congratulations, Dr. Nivens. Texas is proud.⭐

https://na2.hubs.ly/H05v3r_0

05/15/2026

🎉 Congratulations Kelsey Riley!

Along with growing as a leader, they’ve built lasting connections through SMU District Leadership Fellows.

Ready to belong and connect? Apply for next year: https://bit.ly/DLF-2026-Info

05/14/2026

Even experienced district leaders wonder if professional development is ‘right for them.'

Those who gain the most are leaders who reflect on practice, grow intentionally, and want to strengthen their teams. That’s you.

Explore the SMU District Leadership Fellows program: https://bit.ly/DLF-2026-Info

”