By Zack Wahlquist
The 2014 Women’s Leadership Institute is taking place at the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, California from December 2–5.
The four-day program features keynote speeches by Sally Hegelsen and Dr.
Phyllis Wise, and educational and plenary sessions on topics like gender communication, conducting quality searches, negotiating salaries, and career mapping.
Pam Su returns to the Women’s Leadership Institute after receiving extremely positive feedback at the 2013 event.Pam Su, Director of Campus Recreation at San Francisco State University, is returning as one of twelve educators-in-residence— senior leaders in administrative disciplines who serve as advisors to smaller groups of attendees—and Jan Gong is attending as presenting faculty. Gong, 1993 NIRSA President and 1997 NIRSA Honor Award recipient, is “excited to have the opportunity to engage other educators and student service professionals in conversations about leadership” since “opportunities to honestly exchange perspectives and experiences are rare. It’s such a treat for me to work with so many gifted women who are passionate about leadership and serving students!”
Sponsors and partners are supporting popular personal development sessions at the Institute, and those types of sessions are what Gong sees as setting the WLI apart from other professional development opportunities. “The structure and goals of the Institute are quite unique. The emphasis is on self-reflection and development, while at the same time bringing a community of diverse professionals together. This kind of peer-based network is invaluable.”
Additionally, educational content will be offered in financial wellness, social media, individual career counseling, and there will be round-table discussions with higher-education association executives. Attendees will be able to network and build connections with women of various ages, experience levels, and functional areas within the field of student affairs during receptions and meals hosted at the hotel.
Jan Gong served as the 1993 NIRSA President and was awarded the NIRSA Honor Award in 1997.Assessment of the 2013 program showed that 94% of the respondents believed the program met or exceeded their expectations, and 95% thought the value of the program was “excellent” and would recommend the Institute to colleagues. One past attendee stated, “You can tell the faculty are really invested in the success of fellow women and really enjoy being a part of the Institute.” Another said, “Overall, the WLI continues to be a valuable experience. In a male dominated area, it is important for me to connect with female colleagues. I will continue to participate and support WLI. I will also encourage others to participate. Thank you for another great year!”
The 2014 program is not to be missed and registration is still open—save your spot today! We hope to see you at Dana Point!
