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ForwardRising Leaders 2026
Leadership Development for Emerging Infectious Diseases and HIV Professionals
Rising Leaders is a fully online leadership development program for infectious diseases and HIV professionals seeking to strengthen leadership skills, expand professional networks, and grow with greater intention during the early stages of their careers.
The program combines flexible online learning, accredited leadership education, small-group coaching, individualized assessment, and practical tools participants can apply directly to their work.
Over approximately three months, participants engage in asynchronous learning, complete the Leadership Practices Inventory® Self-Assessment, meet regularly with a small coaching cohort, and receive individualized support translating leadership concepts into practice.
Rising Leaders is accredited for:
- 18.00 ABIM MOC II
- 18.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™
Why Rising Leaders?
Healthcare professionals are often expected to lead before they are formally trained to lead.
They manage teams, guide projects, navigate conflict, mentor colleagues, and influence workplace culture while balancing demanding clinical, academic, research, and administrative responsibilities.
Rising Leaders was designed to help address that gap.
The program provides emerging infectious diseases and HIV professionals with structured leadership development that is practical, reflective, and directly connected to the realities of healthcare work.
At the center of the experience is seven hours of live small-group coaching with certified coaches and infectious diseases leaders. Comparable professional coaching is often difficult to access independently and would typically cost substantially more on the open market. In Rising Leaders, coaching is integrated into the program experience alongside peer discussion, expert facilitation, asynchronous tools, and an evidence-based leadership assessment.
Participants do not simply learn leadership concepts. They work through real professional challenges, clarify development goals, strengthen leadership behaviors, and build a practical plan for continued growth.
Participants develop practical skills in:
- Communication and conflict management
- Coaching and mentorship
- Emotional intelligence and self-awareness
- Project and initiative leadership
- Professional relationship-building
- Inclusion and equity-focused leadership
- Career planning and professional growth
Program Dates and Registration Information
Please review the following important program dates and enrollment deadlines carefully. Coaching cohorts are limited and may fill prior to the registration deadline.
- May 29, 2026: Registration opens
- August 31, 2026: Program begins and all course materials become available
- August 31, 2026: Deadline to complete Coaching Cohort Registration and onboarding module
- August 31, 2026: Registration closes unless cohorts fill earlier
- November 20, 2026: Program concludes
- May 31, 2027: Final date to access asynchronous course materials
Personalized Coaching Cohorts
The coaching experience is the centerpiece of Rising Leaders.
Participants select from four coaches, each bringing a distinct coaching style, facilitation approach, and professional perspective. Cohorts are intentionally small, with only 5 to 10 participants per group, allowing conversations to evolve around participant goals, challenges, and professional experiences.
Each cohort develops differently over time. Some groups may focus more heavily on communication and workplace dynamics. Others may emphasize career development, confidence-building, leadership identity, team management, or navigating institutional complexity.
The asynchronous curriculum provides a shared foundation, while coaching conversations remain flexible and responsive to priorities emerging within each cohort.
Participants meet with the same coach and peer group throughout the program, creating continuity, trust, and accountability over time.
Across seven live coaching sessions, participants will:
- Explore current leadership challenges and opportunities
- Strengthen communication and interpersonal leadership skills
- Clarify professional goals and developmental priorities
- Receive support and feedback from peers
- Practice reflection and coaching-informed leadership behaviors
- Build accountability around growth and action planning
- Develop a stronger sense of leadership identity and confidence
The estimated professional value of the coaching experience alone exceeds $1,925.
What Is Coaching?
Professional coaching helps participants reflect more clearly, identify patterns, set goals, and take purposeful action.
For participants unfamiliar with coaching, a brief introductory video explains what coaching is, what participants can expect, and how coaching differs from traditional teaching or mentorship.
Coaching Cohort Enrollment
To preserve a high-quality coaching experience, each coaching cohort is limited to a maximum of 10 participants.
Because cohorts frequently fill before the registration deadline, interested participants are strongly encouraged to register early to secure a preferred coaching schedule. If all cohorts reach capacity before August 31, registration will close early.
Coaching Registration Information
Participants are encouraged to review the faculty page before registering to learn more about each coach’s background, coaching style, facilitation approach, and scheduling availability. Short introductory videos are also available to help participants better understand each coaching experience.
After registering for the course, participants will immediately receive access to the coaching registration module along with a confirmation email containing instructions for selecting a coaching cohort.
Because coaching cohorts are intentionally small and may fill quickly, participants are strongly encouraged to complete coaching registration as soon as possible to secure a preferred coach and schedule.
Current cohort availability may be reviewed at any time using the coaching availability page. Cohorts displaying 0 seats remaining are full and unavailable for registration.
In the exceedingly rare event that a preferred cohort fills between course registration and coaching cohort selection, participants who determine the remaining coaching options are not an appropriate fit may request a full course refund from IDSA. Questions may be directed to [email protected].
Leadership Assessment and Reflection
Participants complete the Leadership Practices Inventory® Self-Assessment (LPI® Self, 5th Edition), a leadership development tool supported by decades of research and professional use.
The assessment helps participants:
- Identify leadership strengths
- Recognize opportunities for growth
- Reflect on leadership behaviors and tendencies
- Create targeted leadership development goals
Participants also receive an additional live coaching session focused on interpreting LPI results and developing actionable leadership plans.
Four LPI coaching opportunities will be offered to support scheduling flexibility.
Flexible Online Learning
Rising Leaders was designed with the realities of healthcare schedules in mind.
Participants complete asynchronous learning activities independently between coaching sessions using a combination of:
- On-demand webinars
- Interactive activities
- Guided reflection exercises
- Discussion boards
- Curated readings
- External articles and videos
- Downloadable tools and resources
Content may be completed at each participant’s own pace within the assigned unit schedule.
All asynchronous materials remain available through May 31, 2027.
What Participants Receive
Registration includes:
- Seven live small-group coaching sessions
- Access to certified coaches and infectious diseases leaders
- Leadership Practices Inventory® Self-Assessment
- Additional LPI-focused coaching session
- Accredited asynchronous leadership curriculum
- Downloadable tools, reflection exercises, and practical resources
- Peer discussion and cohort-based learning
- Access to asynchronous materials through May 31, 2027
Target Audience
Rising Leaders is designed for:
- Early-career infectious diseases and HIV professionals
- Junior faculty and emerging healthcare leaders
- Clinicians stepping into leadership responsibilities
- Healthcare professionals seeking formal leadership development
- Experienced practitioners interested in strengthening foundational leadership skills
Participants from across the healthcare team are strongly encouraged to participate.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the program, participants will be able to:
- Build a personalized leadership development plan
- Apply foundational leadership theories and practices
- Strengthen communication and conflict management skills
- Lead projects and initiatives more effectively
- Foster more inclusive workplace environments
- Integrate coaching-informed leadership behaviors into daily practice
- Develop greater self-awareness, confidence, and leadership intentionality
The program is organized into two-week thematic units that combine asynchronous learning with longitudinal coaching.
Week One: Asynchronous Learning
Participants complete independent online learning activities introducing key leadership concepts, frameworks, and developmental topics.
Learning activities may include:
- On-demand webinars
- Interactive learning modules
- Guided reflection exercises
- Discussion boards
- Curated readings
- External articles and videos
- Downloadable tools and worksheets
Participants complete coursework on their own schedule within the assigned unit timeframe.
Week Two: Coaching Cohort Session
Participants meet with their coaching cohort to explore how program concepts connect to current professional experiences, leadership challenges, workplace dynamics, and developmental goals.
Coaching sessions are discussion-based, reflective, and highly interactive. Rather than functioning as lectures, sessions focus on application, perspective-sharing, problem-solving, and leadership development through guided conversation.
Because each coaching cohort develops differently over time, conversations become increasingly responsive to the priorities, experiences, and goals of the group.
Participants remain with the same coach and peer cohort throughout the program, creating continuity, accountability, and psychological safety across the experience.
Program Themes
Orientation
Participants establish coaching goals, reflect on leadership strengths, review program expectations, and begin building relationships within their coaching cohort.
Topics include:
- Goal setting
- Leadership self-reflection
- Coaching expectations
- Cohort norms and engagement
- Foundations for psychological safety and accountability
Coaching, Mentoring and Sponsoring
Participants explore the distinct roles developmental relationships play in professional growth and leadership advancement.
Topics include:
- Coaching-informed leadership behaviors
- Mentorship and sponsorship
- Growth mindset
- Feedback and developmental conversations
- Building intentional professional support systems
Fundamentals of Leadership Development
Participants examine foundational leadership concepts and frameworks relevant to healthcare environments.
Topics include:
- Leadership theory
- Emotional intelligence
- Leadership values and behaviors
- Adaptability and resilience
- Self-awareness and leadership identity
Communication and Conflict
Participants strengthen communication skills and explore approaches for navigating interpersonal and organizational conflict productively.
Topics include:
- Communication styles
- Difficult conversations
- Conflict dynamics
- Feedback delivery
- Relationship management
- Trust and psychological safety
Problem-Solving and Project Management
Participants apply structured approaches to leadership challenges, initiative planning, and project execution within healthcare settings.
Topics include:
- Strategic problem-solving
- Team coordination
- Project planning and execution
Inclusion Leadership
Participants deepen their understanding of equity, inclusion, and belonging within healthcare teams and organizations.
Topics include:
- Implicit bias
- Inclusive leadership practices
- Equity and intersectionality
- Workplace culture
- Psychological safety
Coaching Conclusion
Participants reflect on growth throughout the program, identify ongoing developmental priorities, and strengthen plans for continued leadership development beyond the formal program.
Topics include:
- Leadership reflection
- Sustaining growth and accountability
- Long-term development planning
- Continued application of coaching-informed leadership practices
Time Commitment
The program typically requires approximately 18 total hours to complete over the course of three months.
Time commitments include:
- Asynchronous learning activities
- Seven live coaching sessions
- One additional LPI coaching session
- Reflection activities and discussion participation
The program is intentionally designed to remain manageable alongside professional responsibilities while still providing meaningful longitudinal engagement and development.
Because coaching conversations are responsive to the needs, experiences, and priorities of each cohort, the depth and emphasis of specific topics may vary between groups. All participants complete the same asynchronous curriculum to ensure consistent exposure to foundational leadership concepts, frameworks, and skills; however, live coaching discussions evolve dynamically over time and may explore certain topics in greater depth depending on the interests and developmental needs of the cohort.
Meet Our Coaches
The coaching experience is the centerpiece of Rising Leaders.
Participants select one coach and remain with the same small coaching cohort throughout the program. Each coach brings a distinct facilitation style, professional background, and leadership perspective, allowing participants to select the experience that best aligns with their goals, communication preferences, and scheduling needs.
Before registering for a coaching cohort, participants are encouraged to:
- Review each coach’s biography and introductory video
- Consider scheduling compatibility carefully
- Review current cohort availability
Coaching cohorts are intentionally limited to support meaningful discussion, individualized attention, and relationship-building over time. Cohorts may fill before the course registration deadline.
When checking availability, cohorts are open and accepting registrations unless it specifically states that the cohort is closed. Please do not submit a coaching registration form until you have completed your Rising Leaders registration through IDSA Academy. Coaching registrations received before there is a matching registration in IDSA Academy will not be accepted.
In the exceedingly rare event that a preferred cohort fills between course registration and coaching cohort selection, participants who determine the remaining coaching options are not an appropriate fit may request a full course refund from IDSA. Questions may be directed to [email protected].
Lyssette L. Cardona, MD, MPH, MHA, FIDSA, FACP, BCC
Lyssette Cardona, MD, is an infectious diseases physician and accomplished global healthcare leader with a strong focus on leadership development, coaching, and mentoring. She is a Board-Certified Executive Coach and has completed extensive training in coaching and mentoring through the Center for Excellence in Coaching and Mentoring, including mentor coach training and programs tailored for healthcare professionals. Dr. Cardona serves as faculty for leadership development programs such as Lead Every Day, where she supports growth in team dynamics, conflict navigation, and personal discovery. As Acting Chair of the IDSA Leadership Institute Subcommittee and a master’s candidate in Conflict Resolution, she brings advanced expertise in guiding individuals and teams through complex challenges. Her work reflects a deep commitment to developing others through structured mentorship, coaching, and leadership education in healthcare settings.
Schedule
Tuesdays | Every Other Week | 9:00–10:00 AM ET
- September 1, 2026
- September 15, 2026
- September 29, 2026
- October 13, 2026
- October 27, 2026
- November 10, 2026
- November 17, 2026
When checking availability, cohorts are open and accepting registrations unless it specifically states that the cohort is closed. Please do not submit a coaching registration form until you have completed your Rising Leaders registration through IDSA Academy. Coaching registrations received before there is a matching registration in IDSA Academy will not be accepted.
Joshua Hartzell
Joshua Hartzell, MD, is a retired Army colonel who spent 25 years in military medicine. He has held numerous positions throughout his career, including Program Director for the Internal Medicine Residency and Assistant Chief of Graduate Medical Education at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, as well as Assistant Dean for Faculty Development at the Uniformed Services University. Dr. Hartzell is faculty at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, where he teaches leadership development. A practicing infectious diseases physician, he has devoted the last decade to developing leaders, training and teaching thousands of students, residents, and faculty within healthcare.
Dr. Hartzell is a Certified Executive Coach and holds additional coaching certifications in the Leadership Challenge 360 and EQ-i 360 assessments. Dr. Hartzell believes coaching is a process in which the coach serves as a conversation partner with the coachee. The goal of coaching is to unlock potential and help individuals thrive personally and professionally.
Schedule
Tuesdays | Every Other Week | 12:00–1:00 PM ET
- September 1, 2026
- September 15, 2026
- September 29, 2026
- October 13, 2026
- October 27, 2026
- November 10, 2026
- November 17, 2026
When checking availability, cohorts are open and accepting registrations unless it specifically states that the cohort is closed. Please do not submit a coaching registration form until you have completed your Rising Leaders registration through IDSA Academy. Coaching registrations received before there is a matching registration in IDSA Academy will not be accepted.
Susan J. Rehm, MD, FIDSA, FACP, ACC, BCC
Susan Rehm, MD, is an executive coach and infectious disease physician with leadership experience across health care, professional societies, and nonprofits, plus more than 40 years in medical practice. She brings deep expertise to coaching and is committed to helping individuals achieve their development goals.
Dr. Rehm earned her undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of Nebraska and completed training in internal medicine and infectious diseases at Cleveland Clinic. She is certified in executive coaching through the Weatherhead School of Management and accredited by the International Coaching Federation and the Center for Credentialing and Education.
Susan is Professor Emerita of Medicine at the Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University and a member of the staff in Cleveland Clinic’s Education Institute, where she co-facilitates Networking for Excellence in Transitions (NExT), a peer development group. Before retiring in 2023, she served as Cleveland Clinic’s Associate Chief of Staff and Vice Chair of Infectious Disease. She also led the ID Fellowship and IM Residency programs and served on the IDSA Board of Directors from 2017 to 2020.
Schedule
Tuesdays | Every Other Week | 4:00–5:00 PM ET
- September 1, 2026
- September 15, 2026
- September 29, 2026
- October 13, 2026
- October 27, 2026
- November 10, 2026
- November 17, 2026
When checking availability, cohorts are open and accepting registrations unless it specifically states that the cohort is closed. Please do not submit a coaching registration form until you have completed your Rising Leaders registration through IDSA Academy. Coaching registrations received before there is a matching registration in IDSA Academy will not be accepted.
Julie B. Trivedi, MD, CPCC, FIDSA
Julie Trivedi, MD is a physician, leadership coach, and former health system leader dedicated to helping physicians lead with greater clarity, confidence, and authenticity. With experience in academic medicine, clinical practice, and healthcare leadership, she understands the unique challenges infectious diseases physicians face as they navigate evolving professional roles, leadership responsibilities, and personal growth.
Her coaching approach combines practical leadership development with reflective inquiry, helping participants strengthen communication, navigate complexity, build resilience, and reconnect with their own values and voice as leaders. Julie creates a thoughtful, supportive space that encourages insight, self-awareness, and meaningful professional growth. She is particularly passionate about empowering physicians to lead in ways that are both effective and deeply aligned with who they are.
She currently serves on the SHEA Board, writes a bimonthly coaching column for the Leadership Institute, and is a single mother of two girls.
Schedule
Thursdays | Every Other Week | 12:00–1:00 PM ET
- September 3, 2026
- September 17, 2026
- October 1, 2026
- October 15, 2026
- October 29, 2026
- November 12, 2026
- November 19, 2026
When checking availability, cohorts are open and accepting registrations unless it specifically states that the cohort is closed. Please do not submit a coaching registration form until you have completed your Rising Leaders registration through IDSA Academy. Coaching registrations received before there is a matching registration in IDSA Academy will not be accepted.
Disclosures
The content for this CME-accredited activity was reviewed, edited, and redesigned by the IDSA Leadership Institute Subcommittee in 2024 to ensure accuracy, relevance, and alignment with educational best practices.
Leadership Institute Subcommittee Disclosures
- Emily Abdoler
- Role: Subcommittee Member; Reviewer
- Disclosure: Advisory/Consultant role for National Board of Medical Examiners. Committee work for the National Academy of Medicine.
- Vladimir Berthaud
- Role: Subcommittee Member; Reviewer
- Disclosure: No financial relationships or income within the last 24 months disclosed.
- Lyssette Cardona
- Role: Subcommittee Member; Reviewer
- Disclosure: No financial relationships or income within the last 24 months disclosed.
- Catherine Derber
- Role: Subcommittee Member; Reviewer
- Disclosure: Honoraria from the following company: Projects In Knowledge Powered by Kaplan, ViiV
- Colin Dixon
- Role: Staff; Planner; Editor
- Disclosure: No financial relationships or income within the last 24 months disclosed.
- Ekezie Francis
- Role: Subcommittee Member; Reviewer
- Disclosure: No financial relationships or income within the last 24 months disclosed.
- Jennifer Hanrahan
- Role: Subcommittee Member; Reviewer
- Disclosure: No financial relationships or income within the last 24 months disclosed.
- Tristan McPherson
- Role: Subcommittee Member; Reviewer
- Disclosure: No financial relationships or income within the last 24 months disclosed.
- Payal Patel
- Role: Subcommittee Member; Reviewer
- Disclosure: No financial relationships or income within the last 24 months disclosed.
All financial relationships have been mitigated.
Accreditation Statement
In support of improving patient care, IDSA is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
Credit Designation Statement
CME and MOC credit will be available for both the asynchronous and synchronous portions of the Rising Leaders program.
Available Credit
- 18.00 ABIM MOC II
- 18.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™