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Save the date: Research Forum
Our biennial Research Forum, a cornerstone event that celebrates scholarship and collaboration within our community, is set to take place on February 26, 2026.
This forum, with keynote speaker Dr. Matthew J. Mayhew from The Ohio State University, will showcase current student research alongside alumni dissertation studies, offering a unique opportunity to explore innovative ideas and connect with thought leaders. Poster presentations will be followed by interactive Q&A sessions with fellow students, alumni, faculty and other attendees. Learn more.
We are now accepting applications for Fall 2026 admission
Our program continues to flourish, with 44 students currently pursuing their Ph.D. Last year alone attracted 18 full-time and seven part-time applicants.
This continued momentum is a testament to the commitment of our alumni, faculty, staff and advisory board. Their insights and support play a vital role in shaping the future of our program.
In a 2025 SSLS Alumni Survey (response rate 47%):
- 100% of alumni respondents strongly agree or agree that they are satisfied with their PhD experience and that they would choose the SSLS program again.
- 94% strongly agree or agree that the SSLS program prepared them well for their career and was worth the time investment
- 97% strongly agreed or agreed that the SSLS program improved their leadership abilities and enhanced their professional credibility
- 77% of respondents are in current jobs that require or prefer a PhD.
The application is now open for the 2026 admissions cycle and submissions will continue to be accepted through February 1. Learn more.
Explore LIL 2.0 - A premier resource for leadership research
Since its creation in 2017, the Leadership Instruments Library (LIL) has been one of the most valuable scholarly assets of JMU’s School of Strategic Leadership Studies.
Originally developed through a collaboration between former SSLS Director Karen Ford and graduate assistant Sam Nickels (’16 Ph.D.), the LIL began as a collection of research tools that enabled scholars worldwide to quantify and measure leadership at both individual and organizational levels.
Now, LIL 2.0 takes this resource to the next level. With nearly 150 instruments, it offers concise overviews of each tool’s purpose, description, and key references, making it easier than ever to access and apply leadership measurement instruments. This dynamic compendium is continuously updated with input from our scholarly community.
Join us in shaping the future of leadership research! Share updates or recommend new instruments by contacting us at ssls@jmu.edu. Read more.
Welcome new Advisory Board members
We are proud to introduce the newest members of our Advisory Board. Their expertise, dedication and vision will be invaluable as we continue to grow and innovate. Please join us in welcoming:
- Alison C. Jones – Founder & Principle, Wellness Society, LLC
- Jeffrey Macris – Dean, College of Leadership and Ethics, U.S. Naval War College
- Michael McLellan – Chief Operating Officer, NORAM (DHL Supply Chain)
- Carrie Willetts – Chief Administrative Officer, West Virginia University Medicine
We look forward to the exciting contributions and fresh perspectives they will bring to our organization. Together, we will achieve great things!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Advisory Board members who have retired from their roles after years of commitment:
- Lori Pyle
- Doug Reynolds
- Dave Urso
- Kevin Meaney
- Jim Krauss
Your leadership and dedication have been instrumental in advancing our mission, and we deeply appreciate the impact you’ve made.
Stay tuned for more updates, including details on our next Advisory Board meeting in April 2026. Read more.
Upcoming Events
- December Commencement (December 13, at 10:00am)
- Admissions Deadline (February 1, 2026)
- Giving Day (March 26, 2026)
- May Commencement (Thursday, May 14, 2026)