Completing the Academic Leadership Fellows Program During the Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy education
• Leadership development
• Virtual learning environments

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift in educational delivery methods.
• Traditional in-person programs faced challenges in maintaining engagement and networking.
• The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy's Academic Leadership Fellows Program (ALFP) needed to adapt.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the ALFP's virtual transition for Cohort 17.
• To identify key adaptations made to the program's structure and delivery.
• To assess the impact on fellow interactions, team-building, and professional development.

Main Methods:

• Transitioning the ALFP to a fully virtual format for Cohort 17.
• Modifying networking strategies and team-building activities for an online setting.
• Adapting the preparation and delivery of team debates in a virtual environment.

Main Results:

• Despite the virtual format, strong relationships and collaborations were formed among fellows.
• Peer interactions and the learning approach were successfully adapted.
• Mentorship and leadership opportunities at home institutions remained crucial for personal growth.

Conclusions:

• The ALFP can effectively deliver meaningful professional development for faculty leaders in a virtual setting.
• Virtual adaptations demonstrate the resilience and adaptability of leadership programs.
• Online platforms can foster robust connections and collaborative learning experiences.