Supervising for the first time?
PASS gives you the practical edge.
Applications open November 10
What is PASS?
Practical Applications of Supervisory Skills (PASS) is a comprehensive six-week training series designed to support new or emerging supervisors.
PASS equips participants with:
- Practical and essential skills
- A robust network of peers
- An effective leadership mindset
Application Process
Application opens November 10
To participate in PASS:
1. Review the program’s dates, curriculum, and requirements.
2. Talk with your supervisor about participating in the program.
3. Submit the application by December 8, 2025.
4. Participants will receive notification of their status in mid-December.
Who Should Apply?
PASS is designed for emerging leaders who are eager to grow their supervisory skills and make a positive impact at the University of Iowa. Admission is competitive, and participants are selected based on the thoughtfulness and alignment of their application responses.
Applicants are encouraged to apply if they:
- Have 0–2 years of supervisory experience at the University of Iowa or have concrete plans to move into a supervisory role within the next year.
- Can demonstrate how participation in PASS supports their career goals and professional development.
- Show a genuine interest in learning, self-awareness, and growth as a current or future supervisor.
Training Timeline
Thursdays, February 26 - April 9th, 2026*
| Course Title | Date | Time | Instructor | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Getting Practical: Equipping Supervisors for Success | February 26 | 1:00 - 4:00pm | Anna Yacovone Scott White | In-person UCC 2520D |
| Build to Lead: Discovering Your DISC Superpowers | March 5 | 2:00 - 4:00pm | Elissa Douglas | Virtual |
| Leading Teams with Trust: Practical Strategies for Productive Teams | March 12 | 2:00 - 4:00pm | Anna Yacovone | Virtual |
| *PASS will not be in session on March 19 in observance of the University's spring break. | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| Elevating Performance: From Feedback to Follow-Through | March 26 | 2:00 - 4:00pm | Blair Wagner | Virtual |
| Navigating the Rough Waters: Leading Through Conflict | April 2 | 2:00 - 4:00pm | Glenda Smith | Virtual |
| PASS It On: From Learning to Leading | April 9 | 12:00 - 2:00pm | Anna Yacovone | In-person IMU 337 |
PASS Requirements
To complete the PASS certificate program, participants must:
- Attend 5 of 6 sessions, including the introduction and final session
- Complete required post-session learning exercises
Your Learning Experience
Each week for PASS, you will:
- Complete pre-work activities (~ 10-15 minutes)
- Attend the live sessions (2 hours per week)
- Reinforce skills with short, actionable learning exercises post-session (~10-15 minutes)
What You'll Gain
- Key leadership competencies in knowing your communication and work styles, leading productive teams, delivering feedback, managing conflict, etc.
- Real-world tools and frameworks for immediate workplace application
- Opportunities for peer learning and building a professional supervising support network