Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Prestigious development program for higher education leaders
Dr. Ali Shaqlaih, Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate School at the University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas), is one of only 26 higher education leaders chosen for the prestigious American Association of State Colleges and Universities’ (AASCU) 2025-2026 Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI).
“The MLI experience offers a unique blend of mentorship, hands-on training, and networking
that will shape the next generation of presidents and chancellors,” said Dr. Shaqlaih.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to learn from exceptional leaders and sharpen the
tools needed to navigate executive roles in higher education.”
UNT Dallas's Dr. Ali Shaqliah, Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate School
MLI is a premier leadership development program that aims to prepare senior-level education leaders for the rigors of college and university presidencies or chancellorships. Through workshops, discussions, and practical training, MLI connects participants to the expertise, experiences, and resources necessary to thrive as they navigate the unique challenges presidents face in today’s complex higher education landscape. “One of the greatest takeaways from the MLI program is the strong national network of peers and mentors. You not only gain insight into the presidency, but you also build lasting relationships that support leadership at every level,” Dr. Shaqlaih said.
Dr. Shaqlaih has served at UNT Dallas since 2010. He began as an Assistant Professor
of Mathematics and Secondary Education and has since held progressive leadership roles,
including Associate Dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Coordinator of
the Department of Mathematics and Information Sciences, and Interim Dean of both the
School of Business and the School of Education.
UNT's Dr. Shaqliah Speaks at a Graduate School Hooding Ceremony
Shaqlaih was named the first Dean of the UNT Dallas Graduate School in November 2019, following an 11-month tenure as interim dean. Under his leadership, the Graduate School has expanded to nine programs. In June 2024, he was promoted to Associate Provost, in addition to his responsibilities as Dean of the Graduate School. In the Fall 2025 semester, Graduate School enrollment increased 10% year over year. “Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about impact," said Dr. Shaqlaih. "My commitment has always been to shape educational environments that promote equity, innovation, and student success.”
Dr. Shaqlaih’s work spans K–20 education reform, STEM education, and teacher professional development. He is a tenured professor of Mathematics and Secondary Education, with an extensive record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Dr. Shaqlaih holds multiple advanced degrees and professional credentials, including a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics and a leadership certificate from the American Association of Colleges and Universities’ Becoming a Provost Academy.
In-person programming for the 2025 MLI cohort took place over the summer in Washington, D.C., and interactive virtual sessions are continuing during the current academic year. Throughout the immersive program, participants will receive mentoring from experienced presidents and shadow their presidential mentors. This support includes guidance from MLI’s President in Residence, Mickey Burnim, who will serve as an adviser to the group. “I am grateful to the UNT Dallas leadership for endorsing this journey. This speaks volumes about the university’s commitment to developing leaders to serve our communities,” said Dr. Shaqlaih.
Since MLI’s inception in 1999, 777 college and university leaders have participated in the program, with 166 becoming university presidents or chancellors. Forty-six have served multiple presidencies or chancellorships.
From UNT Dallas – Featured News