Program Information

AACI invites 2026 and past AACI Leadership Development Workshop (LDW) participants to apply for a new educational program building on the knowledge and skills introduced during the workshop. This year-long program expands on the LDW curriculum, providing a deeper understanding of the Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG) and how cancer center leaders interact with the grant.

Note: Program content will reflect the guidance and requirements outlined in National Cancer Institute (NCI) CCSG Notices of Funding Opportunity issued in 2027 and thereafter, ensuring training aligned with the most current CCSG expectations.

Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the purpose, structure, and key components of the NCI CCSG
  • Explain how cancer center leaders support the successful administration of a CCSG-funded cancer center
  • Apply best practices in leadership, strategic planning, clinical research infrastructure, and shared resource management to strengthen cancer center operations
  • Build a network of peers and leaders to foster collaboration and professional development across AACI cancer centers
Eligibility:
  • Attend the 2026 AACI LDW or attended a past LDW
  • Must be emerging leaders at an AACI cancer center who have a demonstrated interest in leadership development and currently serve in, or are preparing for, leadership roles such as cancer center director (within two years of appointment), deputy director, assistant or associate director, program leader, or assistant, associate, or full professor
  • Demonstrates a track record of leadership and a desire for career evolution within the cancer center leadership structure
  • Commit to attending required virtual sessions and in-person meetings as described in Participant Expectations
Application Timeline:

Application Opens Monday, August 10
Application Deadline Wednesday, September 30
Review Period Thurs. Oct. 1- Fri. Oct. 16
Notification of Acceptance Friday, October 23
Workshop Begins Friday, January 15, 2027

Application Requirements:
  • Completed online application form
  • Submission of NIH Biosketch that includes a personal statement describing the applicant’s interest in the program, professional development goals, and area(s) of leadership interest (e.g., executive leadership, clinical research, etc.)
  • Letter of recommendation from the cancer center director or their designee confirming institutional support for the applicant's full participation in the program and highlighting the applicant's professional accomplishments, leadership potential, career trajectory, and career goals
Participant Expectations:
  • Attend and actively engage in at least three of the four virtual sessions
  • Complete required pre-session preparation and post-session assignments to reinforce learning and apply key concepts
  • Participate in both 2027 AACI conferences: the 19th Annual AACI CRI Meeting (June 28-30; can participate in-person or virtually) and the 2027 AACI/CCAF Annual Meeting (Fall 2027)
  • Complete a capstone project for presentation at the 2027 Leadership Development Workshop
Benefits of the Program:
  • Cancer center leadership training
  • Networking with peers and cancer center leaders
  • Free registration for the 19th Annual AACI CRI Meeting and the 2027 AACI/CCAF Annual Meeting
  • Certificate of completion and recognition as an AACI Leadership Advancement Program graduate, with membership in an alumni network offering invitations to networking events, leadership discussions, and mentorship opportunities

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