ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the many facets of eLearning leadership within the context of a successful professional development program for emerging leaders in education. The primary program presented, the Institute for Emerging Leadership in Online Learning (IELOL), was a collaborative effort between the Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) and the Online Learning Consortium (OLC) to support and strengthen the skills of those entering the quickly changing field of eLearning. The chapter provides a historical perspective of eLearning leadership based on the experiences from the IELOL program and also explores leadership strategies and competencies that will serve eLearning leaders in the future. The most effective professional development program needs to reflect these challenges and accommodate through program adjustments in order to maintain relevance and impact. The leader's passion and drive will have effect only to the level of their personal integrity and commitment to the highest standards of quality.
