December 9 - 11, 2026 | Decatur | Atlanta, Georgia
197
Days
15
Hours
57
Minutes
43
Seconds
Women's Leadership Institute
The Women’s Leadership Institute provides an experience that offers strategies for women to succeed in the higher education profession. Participants include women 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.
Women across higher education are leading through complexity—advocating for students, navigating institutional change, and holding communities together through seasons of uncertainty. This institute is designed to support, strengthen, and elevate that leadership.
Leading Forward brings together women 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, Leading Forward 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.
The Language of Business & Strategic Communication
Tools for translating impact, communicating with senior leaders, and leading with data-informed clarity.
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.
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
Sponsors and Exhibitors
If you would like to sponsor or exhibit at the 2026 Women's Leadership Institute, please contact
Senior Director of Corporate Development Fred Comparato at 614-204-5994 or at fcomparato@naspa.org
