Lake Michigan College is proud to announce that Dr. LaToya Mason, Dean of Health Sciences Education, has been selected as a mentee for the Michigan ACE Women's Network Senior-Level Leadership Job Shadow Program for the 2025-26 academic year. This prestigious opportunity marks a significant milestone for both Dr. Mason and the college as the program celebrates its tenth anniversary.
The Shadow Program, now in its landmark tenth year, pairs aspiring women leaders with university presidents and senior administrators to provide intensive mentorship and professional development. Dr. Mason is one of only six mentees chosen from across Michigan's higher education landscape to participate in this competitive program.
"Dr. Mason's selection for this distinguished mentorship program is a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication to student success," said Dr. Ken Flowers, Executive Vice President of Lake Michigan College. "This opportunity will not only enhance her professional growth but will bring valuable insights and best practices back to Lake Michigan College, benefiting our students, faculty, and the entire Southwest Michigan community."
The program's impressive track record speaks to its value: 42 university presidents and senior leaders from 28 institutions have served as mentors, while 51 mentees from 24 Michigan colleges and universities have participated since its inception. Research conducted in 2023 demonstrated that participants experience a broadened view of leadership and gain greater clarity about their professional trajectories through the program.
The benefits of Dr. Mason's participation extend beyond individual professional development. Lake Michigan College and the communities it serves stand to gain from the enhanced leadership capacity, expanded professional networks, and innovative practices she will bring back to her role in Health Sciences Education, which is a critical area of need as the region faces growing demand for healthcare professionals.
"This mentorship opportunity arrives at a pivotal time for healthcare education in our region," noted Dr. Flowers. "The insights and connections Dr. Mason develops through this program will strengthen our ability to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals Southwest Michigan needs."
The Michigan ACE Women's Network, established in 1978, is an award-winning state chapter of the American Council on Education (ACE) dedicated to identifying, developing, encouraging, advancing, and supporting women in higher education.
Lake Michigan College congratulates Dr. Mason on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to the positive impact her enhanced leadership will have on the college and community.
