What's Inside

Program Information

The Women's Leadership Institute offers University women an opportunity to grow as leaders. Each year, a group of participants meets monthly to encourage self-reflection and learn from each other's skills and experiences. Members come from supervisory, management, and administrative leadership positions throughout the University, creating a unique learning community that continues beyond the duration of the program.

Monthly meetings include a combination of guest speakers, reflection, and group discussion. Guest speakers are senior women leaders at the University, offering participants a valuable opportunity to hear their stories and learn from their experiences. Combined with outside readings and networking activities, these meetings offer participants a chance to cultivate leadership skills within a community of mutual learning and support.

Women's Leadership Institute activities begin in September and end with a June reception for current and past participants.

Key components of the WLI include:

• Kick-off retreat (full-day session in September)
• Monthly meetings (2 hours)
• Opportunities to network with other women leaders
• Opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth
• Annual all-WLI events for current and past participants

Co-Sponsored By

• Office for University Women
• Office of Human Resources

Who should attend?

The WLI is open to women on all leadership levels. Eligible participants are civil service, bargaining unit, professional and administrative (P&A), and faculty women. It is not necessary to have a supervisory or management role.

Eligibility criteria are:

• Current employee of the University of Minnesota
• At least two years of work experience at the University
• Completed application is submitted by the due date, including a letter of recommendation

Application Information

Application information for the 2010-11 program will be available in April 2010. View the 2008 materials for typical questions and application process.

View the 2008 Application Form (pdf)

Registration Fee

There is a $75 fee to help cover materials and program costs; a limited number of scholarships are available through the Office for University Women.

Selection Process

An advisory committee of past WLI participants and professionals from Organizational Effectiveness and the Office for University Women, will review applications and notify applicants of their decision.