Women's Leadership Institute

December 9 - 11, 2026 | Decatur | Atlanta, Georgia

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

ACUI and NASPA Member: $399

Non-Member: $499

Regular Registration

July 1, 2026 - September 30, 2026

ACUI and NASPA Member: $499

Non-Member: $599

Late Registration

October 1, 2026 - December 9, 2026

ACUI and NASPA Member: $599

Non-Member: $699

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