Empowering Women Leaders in Higher Education

AWHE’s IMPACT Leadership Institute is a six-month leadership program designed to equip early and mid-career women in higher education with the confidence, resilience, and skills needed to thrive as leaders. Through virtual workshops, coaching, and interactive discussions, participants will gain insights into leadership in academia and develop strategies for career advancement. Application for 2025-2026 is closed. The application for 2026-2027 will open April of 2026.

Program Details

• Duration: September – November & January – March (6 months)
• Virtual Program Orientation: August 5, 2025, 5:30 – 7:30 PM
• Sessions: 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month, beginning September 2, 2025, 5:30 – 6:30 PM
• Format: Virtual

Program Eligibility

• AWHE Members
• Women in faculty or staff roles in higher education
• Early to mid-career professionals in higher education

Cost & Application

• Program Fee: Program fee: $499 (includes registration for the AWHE Annual Conference. Travel and lodging are not included; participants are kindly expected to cover these costs and plan to attend the conference.)
• Supervisor Endorsement Required: Applicants must have supervisor approval to apply and commit to covering program and conference costs
• Payment Due Upon Acceptance

Program Curriculum

Phase 1: Higher Education Landscape & Big-Picture Considerations (Months 1-3)

• The Higher Education Landscape – Context & Trends
• Navigating Leadership in Higher Education
• Power, Influence, and Decision-Making in Higher Education

Phase 2: Self-Assessment, Professional Goals, and Leadership Growth (Months 4-6)

• Self-Assessment & Professional Identity
• Career Advancement Strategies
• Leadership Legacy & Actionable Plan