December 9 - 11, 2026 | Decatur | Atlanta, Georgia
53
Days
05
Hours
18
Minutes
10
Seconds
Women's Leadership Institute
Next Up! The Women’s Leadership Institute provides an experience for all who are committed to supporting the success of women in the higher education profession. Participants come from facilities and operations, administration, auxiliary services, student affairs, recreation, and libraries who share a passion for the profession and plan to lead with lasting impact. Leaders across higher education are navigating complexity—advocating for students, managing institutional change, and holding communities together through seasons of uncertainty.
This institute is designed to support, strengthen, and elevate that leadership.
Next Up! brings together leaders from all roles and career stages to explore what it means to lead with clarity, purpose, and sustainability in today’s rapidly shifting higher ed landscape. Through keynotes, interactive workshops, and intentional networking, participants will gain practical strategies, renewed confidence, and a community of peers who understand the realities of doing this work.
Whether you’re a rising leader, an established manager, or a seasoned professional seeking fresh perspective, Next Up! offers the space, tools, and community to navigate what’s now and prepare for what’s next.
Important Registration Dates
Early Registration
March 1, 2026 - June 30, 2026
Regular Registration
July 1, 2026 - September 30, 2026
Late Registration
October 1, 2026 - December 9, 2026
Learning Outcomes
Sustainable Leadership & Personal Capacity
How women sustain themselves and their teams amid resource constraints, high demand, and shifting institutional priorities.
Leadership Networks & Strategic Relationships
Building the relationships, mentorships, and sponsorships that fuel career growth and strengthen support systems.
Influence, Advocacy & Getting the Yes
Strategies for persuasion, self-advocacy, storytelling, and leading from any seat—even without positional authority.
Navigating the Current Higher Ed Landscape
Exploring the political, financial, and cultural currents shaping our work, and how women leaders can adapt while staying grounded in their values.
Career Advancement & Identity as a Leader
Growing into your leadership voice, designing your next steps, and leading authentically—especially for women of color and those navigating predominantly white institutions.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The sponsorship prospectus for the 2026 Women's Leadership Institute is now LIVE! Check out this year's opportunities below.
The application deadline is October 30, 2026. Submit your application today by clicking on Apply Today.
Questions? Connect with Juan Pelaez-Barboza, Assistant Director of Corporate Fulfillment & Advertising, at JPelaezBarboza@naspa.org or (202) 903-0657.
Women's Leadership Planning Committee
Stacey Givens
Director of Strategic Initiatives & Senior Diversity Officer
ACUI
Shānna Kinzel
Educational Program Manager
ACUI
Janelle Nicole Rahyns, Ph.D.
Senior Director of Global Impact
NASPA
