Senior Vice President for Student Affairs Kawanna Leggett, Ed.D. joins the AGB Institute for Leadership and Governance in Higher Education Class for 2025-26. Leggett will join 25 participants from across the country for an in-person institute in Washington, D.C., in September.
“I’m deeply honored to be selected as a 2025–26 AGB fellow and grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside a cohort of visionary leaders committed to strengthening the future of higher education,” said Leggett. “At a time when our institutions face unprecedented challenges and possibilities, I’m energized by the chance to sharpen my governance knowledge and expand my impact in service to students, communities, and mission-driven leadership.”
For seven transformative years, the institute has stood as a beacon for leaders in higher education, offering unparalleled training, vital resources, and impactful mentorship. Over the course of six months, Leggett’s cohort will engage in dynamic symposia, interactive online workshops, and personalized mentoring sessions, fostering deep connections to tackle the pressing challenges that higher education institutions face.
“Now more than ever, colleges and universities need talented and motivated leaders who are prepared to navigate the ongoing changes to the higher education environment,” said Rod McDavis, Ph.D., AGB Search’s managing principal and CEO. “The AGB Institute for Leadership and Governance in Higher Education was created for the distinct purpose of preparing aspiring leaders for successful service, and we are excited to engage and support the growth of the next cohort of leaders.”
At the heart of its mission, the AGB institute is dedicated to nurturing a vibrant and diverse pipeline of exceptional leaders, ready to step into the roles of college and university presidents. As our society develops, it is essential that these leaders not only mirror the changing demographics of our nation but also possess the foresight and preparation to collaborate effectively with governing boards and stakeholders. Together, these leaders can rise to the occasion, ensuring that institutions thrive amidst the challenges of an ever-changing world, while empowering the next generation of leaders to create a brighter future for all.
Leggett will join leaders in the 2025-26 cohort that serve in leadership roles at institutions across the country, including: University of Texas at Dallas, Miami University of Ohio, Madison Area Technical College, Kutztown University, Concord University, Virginia Tech University, Endicott College, Oregon State University, University of Texas Arlington, Emory University, Florida State College at Jacksonville, Texas Tech Health Sciences Center El Paso, Morehouse College, Columbia University, Northern Michigan University, Dallas College, West Virginia University, Meharry Medical College, Indiana University, University of South Dakota, Quinnipiac University, Belmont University, Penn State Lehigh Valley, and The Citadel. View the full cohort list and their bios here.

