Applications are now open for the 6th Cohort of the TCU R.I.S.E. Certificate Program, a collaborative initiative between Human Resources and the Center for Connection Culture. Recognized nationally with the CUPA-HR Inclusion Cultivates Excellence Award, this program equips TCU faculty and staff to foster leadership, personal growth, and meaningful impact across campus.
R.I.S.E. is designed for those who want to lead with authenticity, strengthen connections, and create positive change in the TCU community. Leadership here is not defined by position, but by the ability to inspire progress through shared values and purposeful action.
Through this year’s program, participants will:
- Deepen cultural understanding and self-awareness through guided reflection.
- Strengthen their ability to lead with empathy, clarity, and confidence.
- Build collaboration and trust across departments.
- Move from insight to action, shaping a more connected and resilient campus culture.
“R.I.S.E. creates space for participants to reflect deeply, connect, and make meaningful change together. Each cohort strengthens the campus culture by bringing these lessons back into their teams and communities,” said Aisha Torrey-Sawyer, Director, Center for Connection Culture.
Graduates of R.I.S.E. describe the program as transformative, equipping them to become agents of cultural change and collaboration at TCU.
"Participating in R.I.S.E. has been one of the highlights of my time at TCU. Not only did I connect with other faculty and staff across campus, I was able to learn, cultivate and bring awareness to accessibility, which is a topic I am very passionate about.
Moreover, I found the monthly personal growth exercises and instruction very relatable and applicable to my position in Academic Affairs. I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to create positive change that benefits all Horned Frogs," said Lisa Smant, R.I.S.E. Cohort 5, Academic Program Specialist, Physician Associate Studies, Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences.
Faculty and staff employed no less than .75FTE at TCU, or .50FTE at the Burnett School of Medicine, with at least one year of service, are eligible to apply.
To be considered for the 6th Cohort of R.I.S.E., please submit your application here: tcu.edu/connection-culture/initiatives/rise
For more information, please email Suhail Johnson at Suhail.Johnson@tcu.edu or Aisha Torrey-Sawyer at a.sawyer@tcu.edu.