National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics

If you have additional questions that are not addressed, please contact Amelia Howard, Senior Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, at howarda@umkc.edu. 

What is the Steve McDonnell PDI and when will it be held?
N4A is excited to launch the 19th annual Steve McDonnell Professional Development Institute (PDI). Named after the program's founder, PDI's mission is to create and maintain a learning community that transmits, creates, and preserves the knowledge that defines our profession. After completion of the program, PDI continues to educate its graduates as it is designed to provide continuous professional development. The 2026 edition of PDI will be held June 5-7, 2026 in Las Vegas, NV.

Is PDI for me?
Yes! Whether you are new to the field (New Practitioner), a seasoned veteran interested in becoming a director of an academic support or student-athlete development unit (Leader/Manager), or a Learning Specialist, there is a track for you in PDI 2026.

What should I expect?
PDI is an interactive, intensive, and immersive program that stretches participants beyond their comfort zones. PDI faculty are among the most experienced and knowledgeable professionals in the field, who give their time and expertise to each cohort. PDI graduates will say they were challenged, motivated, and ultimately changed by their PDI experience. The program lasts 2.5 days and covers a wide variety of sessions and learning objectives.

What do I receive in exchange for my participation?

• Ongoing mentoring by PDI faculty members and alumni ensures that you can put into practice the skills you've learned once you return to your campus. You will have a sounding board for challenges and decisions that you may face.
• Networking with over 700 PDI graduates is another benefit of your participation in PDI. Many PDI graduates have continued to advance in the profession and are leading student-athlete support units, directing learning resource areas, and creating and running HBCU and student-athlete development programs nationwide. Many alumni and faculty serve on the N4A Board of Directors and on various NCAA committees.
• PDI graduates have access to an exclusive PDI alumni LinkedIn group and access to job postings and opportunities.
• PDI reunions are held in conjunction with each N4A National Convention, providing annual opportunities to reconnect with classmates and network with other PDI alumni.

Where/How do I apply?

• Applications will be available on the N4A website on Wednesday, December 18, 2025. Completed applications are due Friday, January 30, 2026. No late applications will be accepted. The application process is highly competitive, with approximately 20 participants selected for each track. It is critical that all materials are submitted by the deadline.
• All applicants will be notified of their acceptance, denial, or placement on a waitlist by Friday, February 20, 2026.

What is the cost of PDI?

• The combined registration cost for the 2026 Professional Development Institute and N4A National Convention will be $550, which includes the cost of all PDI instructional materials and access to the national convention.
• PDI participants not attending the N4A National Convention will have a registration fee of $375.
• Participants will be responsible for their own transportation to the institute and lodging. The PDI working group will work with all participants to ensure roommates are assigned to help defer hotel costs.