The yearlong initiative brings together accomplished senior administrators from colleges and universities across the country for executive coaching, mentorship, leadership seminars, and peer learning designed to strengthen leadership in higher education. Participants are paired with experienced university presidents and engage in professional development focused on navigating the evolving higher education landscape.

Santos-Bamba’s selection reflects both her leadership at the University of Guam and the institution’s commitment to developing leaders who advance higher education in Guam, Micronesia, and beyond.

“This opportunity allows me to learn alongside exceptional colleagues from across the country while gaining new perspectives that will help strengthen the work we do at the University of Guam,” said Santos-Bamba. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue growing as a higher education leader and look forward to bringing back ideas, relationships, and best practices that will benefit our students, faculty, staff, and the communities we serve.”

As Senior Vice President and Provost, Santos-Bamba oversees the University’s academic enterprise, including its schools and colleges, research, student success initiatives, and academic planning. Throughout her career, she has championed student achievement, faculty excellence, workforce development, and partnerships that expand educational opportunity throughout the region.

“The University of Guam is proud to see Dr. Santos-Bamba recognized among an outstanding group of higher education leaders from across the nation,” said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez. “Her selection speaks to the caliber of leadership we are cultivating at UOG and on Guam and reflects our ongoing commitment to institutional excellence, student success, and serving the communities of Guam and all of Micronesia.”

The Millennium Leadership Initiative, established by AASCU in 1999, has supported the professional development of hundreds of senior higher education leaders through executive mentoring, coaching, and immersive leadership experiences. The program equips participants with the knowledge, perspective, and professional network needed to lead effectively in today’s complex higher education environment.

Santos-Bamba joins the 2026 cohort following a competitive national selection process. The cohort convened in Washington, D.C., June 10-13, to begin the program.