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Important Dates

Application opens: Sept. 5, 2025 at 8 a.m. EST

Application closes: Oct. 10, 2025 at 5 p.m. EST

Jan. 28–30, 2026

Indianapolis, IN

The NCAA Emerging Leaders Seminar is a three-day professional development experience for current graduate assistants and interns from NCAA member schools, conference offices and affiliate organizations. The program educates, develops and connects early-career professionals and equips participants with tools to accelerate career progression in college athletics.

Audience

Current graduate assistants and interns from NCAA member schools, conference offices, and affiliate organizations.

Format

This event is in-person only.

Time Commitment

This event is a three-day experience.

Cost

Participants are responsible for travel to and from Indianapolis. The NCAA covers lodging, meals and program materials.

Why Participate?

Build

Build self-awareness through the DiSC assessment and leadership-focused reflection.

Strengthen

Strengthen critical thinking through experiential learning and a program case study.

Develop

Develop practical skills for workplace success, including inclusive leadership and difficult conversations.

Expand

Expand your professional network with peers, industry leaders and NCAA national office staff.

Through interactive presentations, breakouts and panel discussions, participants explore career pathways, practice real-world leadership skills and return to their roles with practical tools and an expanded professional network.

Eligibility

  • Must be a current intern or graduate assistant within an athletics department at an NCAA member school, conference office, affiliate organization or the NCAA national office.
  • Bachelor’s degree is required.

Application Questions

Resources

2021 Emerging Leaders Seminar Impact Report
DiSC Behavioral Assessment Program
Educational and Leadership Opportunities