UTRGV Leadership Institute: Your Resource for Leadership Development
The UTRGV Leadership Institute serves as the central hub for leadership development at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Whether you are an aspiring leader, a new supervisor, or an experienced manager, the Leadership Institute offers structured programs, mentorship opportunities, coaching, and professional development resources designed to help you grow and succeed in your leadership journey.


Overview
This webpage provides a structured pathway for UTRGV employees to explore leadership development opportunities. Built on the UTRGV Leadership Competency Model, the institute ensures that all programs align with best practices for effective leadership. designed for UTRGV faculty and staff seeking to develop leadership skills. Whether you are looking to build leadership capabilities, navigate management challenges, or prepare for a leadership role, the resources provided here will support your professional growth.
How to Get Started
- Explore the Entry Points – Begin with foundational training such as the Leadership Foundations Workshop or the New Leader Academy.
- Register for Training and Coaching Sessions – Enroll in available courses through the UTRGV training portal or express interest in a coaching session.
- Join the Mentoring U Program – Connect with experienced leaders for insights and professional guidance.
- Request Customized Leadership Training – Departments can work with the OD&T team to develop tailored leadership programs that address specific needs.
The Leadership Institute is committed to fostering a culture of leadership excellence at UTRGV. Through structured development opportunities, mentorship, and coaching, employees are equipped with the tools needed to grow as leaders and contribute to the university’s mission.
Where to Begin – Entry Points to Leadership Development
Leadership development at UTRGV begins with Entry Points—foundational programs designed to introduce employees to key leadership concepts and progressive stages of growth. These entry points include:
- HR Essentials Training for Supervisors – A practical course equipping managers with tools for employee relations, policy guidance, and effective communication.
- Foundational Leadership Training- Introducing the UTRGV Leadership Competency Model, core leadership principles, and key skills for professional growth.
- Leadership Micro-Learning Modules – Short, interactive e-learnings available on the E-Learn platform, covering topics such as emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and strategic thinking.
- Self-Discovery Assessments – Gain insight into your leadership style with assessments such as EQ-i 2.0, DISC, StrengthsFinder, and the Leadership Style Inventory.
These Entry Points provide a clear starting place for employees at all levels who want to develop leadership skills before progressing to advanced training and mentorship opportunities.
Additional Leadership Development Resources
Leadership Training Programs
From foundational leadership skills in the HR Essentials Training for Supervisors to advanced leadership strategies in the Advanced Leadership Academy, the institute provides targeted training for leaders at every level.
Mentorship and Coaching
- Mentoring U Program A six-month structured mentoring experience that pairs new leaders with senior leaders for career guidance and professional development.
- One-on-One Leadership Coaching – UTRGV leaders can participate in leadership coaching sessions with certified internal coaches.
Customized Learning Paths
The E-Learn platform offers self-paced courses, virtual training, and micro-learnings tailored to UTRGV’s leadership development needs.
Assessments and Self-Discovery Tools
Employees can enhance their leadership self-awareness through assessments such as:
- EQ-i 2.0 – Emotional intelligence assessment.
- DISC – Behavioral and communication style analysis.
- StrengthsFinder – Identifies key professional strengths.
- Leadership Style Inventory – Helps individuals understand their leadership approach.
Managerial Resources
Series Testimonial
MentoringU
“When I joined this program, I didn’t anticipate the profound impact it would have on my journey (through monthly meetings). I’ve experienced a remarkable positive shift in my personality and professional approach.”
Advanced Leadership Academy
“ I appreciated the engagement and insight. Although I have 10 years of professional experience, I am fairly new to leadership. This is an incredible experience suited for all levels of supervision, looking forward to the next modules!”
Advanced Leadership Academy
“It was great! Loved interacting with other leaders at UTRGV. Enjoyed their comments and reflections.”
Facilitator Bootcamp
“Overall, one of the best trainings I have attended by the OD team!”
Facilitator Bootcamp
“Many thanks for designing and delivering such a complete training! The skills learned will enable us to make a stronger impact through each training, meeting, workshops, and event we facilitate within UTRGV and in the communities we serve.”
Leading Effective Meetings
“This was such a great presentation. It was really informative and I definitely learned some great techniques on how to better approach meetings and things to consider before scheduling one.”
Advanced Leadership Development
“Another great training session! It was not only insightful but also practical and interactive. The content was delivered in a way that kept us engaged, and I’m definitely going to apply what I’ve learned moving forward. Thank you for a great experience!”
MentoringU
“When I joined this program, I didn’t anticipate the profound impact it would have on my journey (through monthly meeting). I’ve experienced a remarkable positive shift in my personality and professional approach.”
Advanced Leadership Development
“The interactive simulations were amazing. Our team was still talking about it afterwards.”
MentoringU
“Thank you to the OD Team for creating this program. I hope that it is continued, and I think it's a wonderful way to build relationships and network with other people.”
Need help?
Contact the Office of Human Resources
Organizational Development & Training
Phone: (E) 956-665-2451
Phone: (B) 956-882-8205
Email: OrgDevelopment@utrgv.edu
Email: EmployeeTraining@utrgv.edu