ACCT Excel: The Trustee Leadership Program

ACCT Excel is a new professional development program designed exclusively for community college trustees. This initiative combines structured learning with flexible options, empowering trustees to strengthen governance knowledge, enhance advocacy skills, and demonstrate leadership achievement.

Through ACCT Excel, you’ll earn digital badges and certificates that showcase your commitment to effective governance—while connecting with a national network of peers.

1. Enroll in the Program
   Join our pilot cohort launching in January 2026. Future cohorts will open later in the year.

   Launch Date: January 2026

   Eligibility: ACCT Board & Committee Members (limited to 25 participants)

   Next Steps: Current ACCT Board and Committee members should watch for your invitation email and secure your spot!

2. Complete Required Modules
   Build a strong foundation with core topics such as:

• Governance 101

• Advocacy 101

• Parliamentary Procedures

• Data-Informed Decision Making

   

  3. Choose Electives
  Customize your learning journey with webinars, toolkits, and live events.

   

  4. Earn Badges & Recognition
  To achieve your ACCT Excel Certificate of Achievement, you must earn one badge in each of the five categories listed below.

Each category is represented by a distinct color and theme:

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: Parliamentary Procedures

    

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

   Example Badge: Advocacy 101

    

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.

• Strengthen trustee governance and leadership skills.

• Foster advocacy and informed decision-making.

• Provide a structured yet flexible learning experience.

• Recognize and celebrate trustee growth through visible achievements.

Q: What is a badge?
A badge is a digital credential awarded for completing specific modules. Badges can be displayed on your ACCT Connect profile and shared on professional platforms.

Q: How do I earn the ACCT Excel Certificate?
Complete at least one badge in each of the five categories listed above.

Q: Will this program expand beyond the pilot cohort?
Yes! After the pilot, ACCT Excel will open to all members with additional learning levels and elective options.

Ready to Excel?

Stay tuned for updates and registration details.